The Backyard BBQ Ultra, set in the picturesque Arkansas Bend Park on the shores of Lake Travis, offers runners a unique endurance challenge infused with Texas Hill Country charm. This event combines the relentless format of a backyard ultra with the laid-back atmosphere of a Texas BBQ, all against the stunning backdrop of one of Austin’s favorite outdoor destinations.
Participants will tackle a scenic 4.167-mile (6.71 km) loop through the park’s diverse terrain. The course winds through juniper and oak-covered trails, along rocky limestone paths, and offers breathtaking views of Lake Travis. Runners must complete the loop every hour, on the hour.
The event begins at 6:30am on the 1st of January, 2025 with a guaranteed minimum duration of 12 hours. However, the race director has the discretion to end the event at any time after the 12-hour mark, adding an element of suspense and strategy to the challenge. Participants must be prepared to continue beyond 12 hours, as the final whistle could come at any moment thereafter.
Aid stations stocked with water and basic supplies will be available at the start/finish area. Participants are encouraged to bring their own additional nutrition and any specialized gear they might need for an extended run.
True to its name, the Backyard BBQ Ultra incorporates a tasty twist: each participant will be rewarded with a delicious BBQ sandwich snack or meal – the perfect way to refuel while soaking in the beauty of Arkansas Bend Park. The last person standing not only earns ultimate bragging rights but also takes home a grill, cementing their status as the Backyard BBQ Ultra champion.
This event welcomes ultra-running veterans and newcomers alike. It offers a perfect blend of serious endurance challenge and Hill Country hospitality.
Whether you’re aiming to set a personal best, experience your first ultra, or simply enjoy a unique running event in a beautiful setting, the Backyard BBQ Ultra promises an unforgettable experience. Come test your limits, enjoy some Texas BBQ, and become part of the growing backyard ultra community in one of Travis County’s most picturesque parks.
Note: Due to the uncertain duration, participants should be prepared for potentially changing weather conditions and the possibility of running into the night. Headlamps and reflective gear are required for all participants in case the event extends past sunset.
Location: Arkansas Bend Park, nestled in the scenic city of Lago Vista, is a hidden gem on the shores of Lake Travis, just a short drive from Austin. This 323-acre park offers a perfect blend of rugged Hill Country terrain and stunning lake vistas, making it a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts in the greater Austin area. Located approximately 30 miles northwest of downtown Austin, the park provides a serene escape that feels worlds away from the city bustle while remaining easily accessible.
The park’s diverse landscape features rocky limestone cliffs, rolling hills covered in juniper and oak, and tranquil lakeside areas, offering visitors a true taste of the Texas Hill Country. Its location on Lake Travis provides breathtaking views of the water, especially beautiful during sunrise and sunset. The park boasts a network of multi-use trails that wind through its varied terrain, challenging hikers and runners with elevation changes and rewarding them with panoramic vistas of the lake and surrounding hills. These trails, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty, offering participants a diverse and scenic course that showcases the natural beauty of the area.
In addition to its trails, the park offers camping sites and cabins, and other amenities such as a boat ramp for easy lake access, fishing opportunities, and picnic areas, making it a versatile outdoor recreation spot. The park’s proximity to Austin, combined with its relatively uncrowded nature, has earned it a reputation as one of “Austin’s beloved backyards” – a place where city dwellers can quickly escape to nature without traveling far from home. For event participants and spectators alike, Arkansas Bend Park provides not just a race venue, but an opportunity to experience the stunning landscape that makes the Austin area a prime destination for outdoor activities and nature lovers.
