Duff Dog Backyard Ultra 2026

The Duff Dog Backyard Ultra is a last-runner-standing trail race at Blue Mounds State Park near Luverne, Minnesota. It follows the Backyard Ultra format: everyone starts the same 4-mile, 880-foot loop, or 6.7056 kilometers, and must finish it within one hour to remain in the race. The event continues until only one runner completes a loop and answers the next bell. The course uses the park’s established trails, mostly on grass, with some gravel and a short paved section. Each hour starts from the same measured corral, with three-, two-, and one-minute warnings before the bell. Runners may not leave the course mid-loop except for restrooms, may not use trekking poles or other artificial aids, and may not receive personal assistance while out on a loop. Everyone except the winner is listed as DNF, with their completed distance recorded.