2026 Little Backyard Adventure

The 2026 Little Backyard Adventure will take place on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at L.B.A. Park, located at 3333 Morse-Merryman Road SE, Olympia, WA. The event is set in a lush forest environment, offering runners a unique trail experience through technical woodland trails. On March 14, Olympia is expected to have mild weather with temperatures ranging from 45°F to 55°F, and partly cloudy skies. Participants can expect a challenging yet rewarding run on a 4-mile loop that includes elevation changes and varied terrain, all within a scenic forest setting. The event is structured as a timed endurance run, with participants aiming to complete as many loops as possible within their chosen time window.

What distances are available for this event?

• →3 Hour Endurance Run
• →6 Hour Endurance Run
• →12 Hour Endurance Run

How much does registration cost?

• →3 Hour Endurance Run: $40 + UltraSignup Fees
• →6 Hour Endurance Run: $60 + UltraSignup Fees
• →12 Hour Endurance Run: $95 + UltraSignup Fees

What is the structure of the event?

The event is a timed endurance run where participants run as many 4-mile loops as possible within their chosen time window. There are no DNFs (Did Not Finish); participants can stop after completing one loop or 15 loops. The number of completed loops determines the results, and the "Legends of LBA" awards are given to those who complete the most loops at the post-race ceremony.

What is included in registration?

Registration includes access to a fully-stocked aid station, a handmade finisher award by local artist Trixy Eichler, entry to the LBA after-party and awards ceremony, a ticket to the Trail Running Film Festival at Capitol Theater on March 15, discounts at local Olympia restaurants, a tree planted in the participant’s name, a limited edition race sticker, and finish line high fives and hugs from the race director.

What are the course details?

The course consists of a 4-mile loop with approximately 200 feet of elevation gain per lap. It features twisting, turning single track trails through a lush forest canopy of ferns, moss, and native Pacific Northwest woods. The majority of the running takes place on technical woodland trails just south of the park's ballfields. Clear signage, trail tape, and course markings guide runners at all intersections. A course map and GPX file are available for download on the event page.

What are the details of the aid station?

The aid station is located at the start/finish near race headquarters and is stocked with water, Tailwind, soda, fruit, chips, pickles, and other treats. Later in the day, the aid station will also offer quesadillas and soup. Basic first aid is available for participants.

What is the race day logistics like?

Packet pickup takes place on race day from 7:00 AM at L.B.A. Park. Parking is available in the main lot at 3333 Morse-Merryman Road SE, Olympia, WA, with overflow parking announced if needed. Drop bags are welcome at the start/finish shelter area. The event is cupless, so participants are encouraged to bring a collapsible cup, with cups available for purchase at packet pickup if needed. The event emphasizes a zero-waste approach, with recycling and composting prioritized over trash cans. Participants are encouraged to share the trail and be respectful of other forest users.

What awards are given at the event?

The "Legends of LBA" awards are presented to participants who complete the most loops at the post-race ceremony. All finishers receive a handmade finisher award by local artist Trixy Eichler.

What additional experiences are included with registration?

Registered participants receive a ticket to the Trail Running Film Festival at Capitol Theater on March 15. They also get discounts at local Olympia restaurants and a tree planted in their name. A limited edition race sticker is included with registration.

What is the race director's note about the event?

The race director emphasizes that the 2026 Little Backyard Adventure is a unique, community-focused event that celebrates Olympia's newly preserved neighborhood forest. The event is designed to offer a fun, challenging, and scenic trail running experience for all participants, whether they are new to trail running or seasoned ultra veterans.