2026 Queeny Backyard Ultra

Queeny Backyard Ultra will take place on Friday, March 6, 2026, at Queeny Park, located at 1675 South Mason Road, St. Louis, MO 63131. The event is scheduled to begin at 10:00 AM and will continue until only one runner remains standing. Participants can expect a mixed-terrain course featuring wide paved sections, short dirt trail sections, and hardpacked stone/gravel trails. The weather in St. Louis during this time is typically mild, with daily highs ranging from 52°F to 62°F, though rain, snow, or ice are possible. The course includes a 4.19-mile loop with 430 feet of ascent and descent, running clockwise through Hawk Ridge Trail, Fox Run Trail, White Oak Trail, and Owl Creek Trails.

What is the format of the Queeny Backyard Ultra?

The Queeny Backyard Ultra follows a "Last Runner Standing" format, where runners must complete a 4.19-mile loop within one hour and immediately begin the next loop. This continues until only one runner remains. The event is part of the Backyard Ultra Series, which has over 150 affiliated events across 45 countries.

What is the World Team Competition Affiliation for this event?

The winner of the 2026 Queeny Backyard Ultra will earn a Silver Ticket and advance to the "World Team Competition" at Big's Backyard Ultra. Only one runner can win the Silver Ticket, assuming they finish their final lap.

What is the course terrain and layout?

The course features a combination of wide paved sections, short dirt trail sections, and hardpacked stone/gravel trails with rolling hills. The loops are run clockwise through Hawk Ridge Trail, Fox Run Trail, White Oak Trail, and Owl Creek Trails. Each loop is approximately 4.19 miles long with 430 feet of ascent and 430 feet of descent.

What is the race day schedule?

Race day begins at 9:00 AM with packet pickup and runner setup. The race starts at 10:00 AM and will continue until the final runner drops. Race HQ and setup will be located by the restrooms, with runners allowed to set up canopies or tents across from the restroom past the white fence.

What awards and swag are included in the event?

Overall finisher awards are given to top performers in the following categories: Non-Binary, Female, and Male. Additionally, Challenge Coins are awarded based on the number of loops completed:

• →Bronze Challenge Coin: 12-18 Loops (50-75 miles)
• →Silver Challenge Coin: 19-23 Loops (79-96 miles)
• →Gold Challenge Coin: 24+ Loops (100+ miles)

What is included in the registration?

Registration includes custom race swag, all weekend camping, free photo downloads, and post-race beer to salute the finishers.

What is the Trail Mix Fund Partnership?

The Queeny Backyard Ultra is part of the Trail Mix Fund initiative, which aims to improve diversity in trail racing and remove barriers for under-served and under-represented communities. The Trail Mix Fund pays race registration fees for runners who cannot afford it or feel they do not belong in the sport. This partnership supports BIPOC and LGBTQ+ individuals who want to race and join the community.

What is the weather like in St. Louis during the event?

In March, St. Louis typically experiences daily highs between 52°F and 62°F, with sunrise around 6:00 AM and sunset around 6:00 PM. Participants should prepare for a range of weather conditions, including rain, snow, or ice.

What is the Queeny Backyard Ultra 500 Miles Club?

The Queeny Backyard Ultra 500 Miles Club is an initiative that encourages runners to complete 500 miles or more across the event. More information about joining the club can be found here ↗.