NorCal Backyard Ultra

About

The NorCal Backyard Ultra returns November 6 & 7, 2026, bringing runners back to the familiar trails around Folsom Lake for another test of endurance and resolve. Each lap begins the same, but how far you go depends entirely on you! Two events make up the weekend.

The Last Person Standing begins at 5:00 PM on Friday, November 6. Runners must complete a 4.16 mile loop every hour, on the hour, until only one runner remains. The Mini Last Person Standing starts at 7:00 AM on Saturday, November 7, and runs for up to 12 hours, allowing participants to cover as many as 50 miles.

Prize money will again be awarded: $400 to the Last Person Standing, $200 to the Assist (second place), and $100 to the Last Female Standing. The 12 hour Mini event offers a reduced entry fee for runners who want the backyard experience without the overnight hours. Whether you’re chasing distance, competition, or discovery, the NorCal Backyard Ultra offers a chance to test limits in a supportive and focused environment.

Format

At the start of each hour, runners begin a 4.16 mile lap and must finish it before the next hour begins. Failing to be at the start line when the next lap begins ends your race. The event continues until one runner completes a lap within the hour and no other runners remain. The planned course will feature roughly equal parts road and smooth trail around Folsom Lake. Due to ongoing construction, the final route and elevation profile will be confirmed closer to race day.

Runners seeking the full backyard experience or goals such as 100K or 100 miles+ should register for the Last Person Standing event. Those looking for a contained challenge can join the 12 hour Mini event, which is limited to 50 miles. The rules are simple. The challenge is not.

The "Mini"

If you want to experience the Last Person Standing format but prefer a more approachable distance, all within the daylight, then the Mini is for you. Designed for runners aiming for 12 to 50 miles, this event follows the same 4.2-mile loop every hour format but ends after 12 hours or 50 miles, whichever comes first. The Mini starts on Saturday November 7th at 7:00AM, with the same format and course as the Last Person Standing Event.

Equipment Rental

If you're traveling to the race or don't already own equipment, you may rent a 6' table for $50 (taxes not included) or a 10'x10' tent, 6' table, & chair package for $140 (taxes not included)* from us. Rentals are first come first serve and will be available for pickup on race weekend. *Damage, lost, or stolen equipment may incur an additional fee.

Awards

All participants in both events will receive a NorCal BackYard Ultra quarter zip and a handcrafted wooden finisher award based on the distance completed. Distance categories include 13 miles, 50 kilometers, 50 miles, 100 kilometers, and 100 miles. Runners who complete 100 miles or more will also receive a bronze finisher belt buckle.

• $400 to the Last Person Standing
• $100 to the Assist (2nd Place)
• $100 to the Last Female Standing (may be combined with the above awards)

Aid Stations

There are no "on course" aid stations but there will be a fully stocked aid stations at Beals Point for runners to use. Additionally, all runners will be given a parking spot near the start / finish line and may utilize the grassy area near the start line to serve as a personal aid station area.

The Unity Initiative

In response to recent federal aid cuts, The Unity Initiative was created to support vital nonprofits that serve our communities. By donating to one of our partner organizations, participants can receive a future race discount and have their donation matched — up to $40 or 25% of their registration fee. This program aims to restore a sense of unity and compassion, ensuring local organizations continue to thrive despite reduced government support. Together, we can keep our communities strong.

Selected Nonprofit Partners: - Placer Food Bank - Sacramento Food Bank - Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children of Sacramento (CASA) - Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children of Placer County (CASA) - AcademySTAY - Sierra Club of California - Placer Land Trust - American Civil Liberties Union *Future discounts will be sent upon receipt of proof of donation. Please email donation receipts to [email protected]. Donations must be made in 2025 and prior to event date(s).