Race Information

Everything you need to know about The Wasatch Yard

December 12, 2025 – 7:00 PM

Complete Race Guide

Below you'll find everything you need to know about The Wasatch Yard. You can print this page or save it as a PDF for your convenience.

View Race Guide

The Backyard Ultra Format

A backyard ultra is an ultramarathon race where competitors must complete a 4.167‑mile loop every hour, on the hour. The race continues until only one runner remains.

Each lap contains:

4.167 miles of mixed terrain (one yard every hour = 100 miles in 24 hours)
Technical trail sections with rocks and roots
Scenic mountain views throughout
Single‑track and wider trail combinations
Aid station access at start/finish

The Rules

Each loop must be completed in under 60 minutes
All runners start together at the beginning of each hour (the "whistle")
Your rest time is whatever remains of the hour after finishing the lap
Miss the start of an hour (DNF) or fail to complete a lap in time and you're eliminated
The race ends when only one runner completes a lap that no one else finishes
Lap‑specific prizes awarded throughout the day to celebrate milestones

Schedule

Race Day: Saturday, December 12th, 2025

Check‑in: 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM

First Whistle: 7:00 PM sharp

Duration: Until one runner remains

Course & Route

Start/Finish: Gillmor Way, Park City, UT

The loop course follows gravel, single track, and greenway paths through Round Valley. See the full route preview below.

Open on Strava

Lap Timing & Strategy

The backyard ultra format is as much mental as it is physical. Here's what makes it unique:

Faster runners have more rest: complete the lap in 45 minutes, rest for 15 minutes
No set finish time: the race could last 12 hours or 48+ hours
Night running: bring headlamps and be prepared for darkness
Crew support: use your rest time wisely for nutrition, gear changes, and recovery

Important: The mountain terrain and unique format make this extremely challenging. Proper training, mental preparation, and a solid support crew are essential. Most runners will not finish beyond 12–24 hours.

Aid Station & Support

A fully stocked aid station will be available at the start/finish area between laps.

Water and electrolyte drinks
Energy gels, bars, and real food options
Medical support on site 24/7
Dedicated crew area for personal support teams
Covered rest area with seating

Contact Us

Need more details? Send us a message and we'll be in touch.