About
Are you ready to face the clock, the trail, and yourself? The NorCal Backyard Ultra returns for its third edition at Folsom Lake’s Beals Point, delivering the ultimate test of endurance, strategy, and sheer willpower. With $600 in prize money on the line, this year’s event promises to be bigger, tougher, and more rewarding than ever.
Two Events. One Goal: Outlast the Rest.
• Last Person Standing kicks off at 5:00 PM on Friday, November 7th under the setting sun. Runners must complete a 4.2-mile loop every hour, on the hour, until only one remains.
• Mini Last Person Standing starts at 7:00 AM on Saturday, November 8th and runs for up to 24 hours — perfect for those looking to challenge themselves without going full throttle into the unknown.
New for 2025: Cash Prizes!
• $400 to the Last Person Standing
• $200 to the Assist (2nd Place)
• $100 to the Last Female Standing
The scenic course takes runners along rolling singletrack trails and lakefront views, blending technical terrain with moments of serene beauty. But don’t be fooled — as the laps pile up and the hours tick by, this race becomes a battle of grit, focus, and mental fortitude.
Whether you're here to chase glory, set personal records, or discover new limits, the NorCal Backyard Ultra is more than just a race — it's an experience that will push you to your edge.
The clock will start. The question is: How far will you go?
Register now and join us for an unforgettable weekend of endurance and community!
Format
At the top of each hour, runners must START the next 4.2 mile lap and END the previous lap. Failing to show up at the top of the hour at the start line will disqualify you from the next lap and the race ends there for you. Last person standing wins!
While you may not be going for the win, this is a great opportunity at getting a new distance PR. You will definitely surprise yourself.
4.2 Mile course (Due to going construction at Folsom Lake the course has changed from prior years): Strava Map
If you're looking to run over 24 hours and truly be the Last Person Standing, please sign up for our "Last Person Standing" event that starts on Friday at 5:00PM.
If you're not looking to run over 24 hours and would like to simply challenge yourself, please sign up for our "Mini - Last Person Standing" event that starts on Saturday at 7:00AM.
The "Mini"
Want to run our Last Person Standing style race but you know you're not crushing 100+ miles? Maybe your goals are more reasonable, like 16 miles or 60 miles, then sign up for our "Mini" Last Person Standing event!
The Mini starts on Saturday morning at 7:00AM, has a 24 hour limit, and is a cheaper alternative. Plus you'll still get to run the 4.2 mile in 1 hour format!
Awards
All runners will receive a NorCal BackYard Ultra hoodie sweatshirt and wood carved finishers award for the furthest distance they completed out of the following: 13M, 50K, 50M, 100K, 100M. Those who achieve 100 miles or further will also score a bronze finisher belt buckle!
Cash Prizes are only eligible for runners in the Last Person Standing event. and are as follows:
• $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 info@badluckrunclub.com. Donations must be made in 2025 and prior to event date(s).
Event's current local time: 3:43 PM PT
