The Deep Creek Backyard Ultra invites runners to immerse themselves in the stunning beauty of Cairncross State Forest. This unique event offers a rhythm of running that celebrates both the challenge of the terrain and the serenity of the surroundings. Together, we will explore the well-loved trails while racing against the clock, embracing each loop as a new adventure unfolds. Come experience the wild beauty that only this forest can provide, as we honor the legacy of trail running in our community.
Years of deep creek BYU
Runners
outfoxed the course
record number of Loops achieved
Deep Creek Backyard Ultra Results
Relive the Battle
All Your Deep Creek BYU Photos by Dennis Photography
| 1–50 runners | $150 |
51–100 runners |
$175 |
101–150+ runners | $200 |
Distance: Unlimited (6.7km loops) on the hour, every hour, until 1 stands
Date: Starts 31st of October 2026
Race Start: 7:00am Saturday
Location: Cairncross State Forest
Elevation: 125m per yard (1 loop)
Deep Creek Backyard Ultra is designed to be a true backyard‑style challenge — simple, raw, and runner‑driven. There are no aid stations or support crews out on the course itself. All support happens at the event hub, where runners return after each yard.
You’re welcome to set up your own 3×3m support tent in the hub area. This is where your crew, friends, and family can help you refuel, reset, and get ready for the next loop. Most runners find the event far more enjoyable (and survivable) with their own crew managing their gear, nutrition, and motivation between yards.
For runners without crew, there will be a basic aid station in the Dead Zone offering water, electrolytes, chips, and lollies if needed. We have a food trailer, where hot food and drinks can be purchases for sale 24 hours a day.
The spirit of the Backyard Ultra is simple: you run the loops — your crew keeps you in the game.
Come prepared for a long days (and nights) of stop‑start endurance. You’ll need your running pack or belt, all mandatory gear, and any weather‑dependent items. Conditions at Deep Creek can swing quickly — hot in the day, cold at night — so pack for all weather scenarios and stay ahead of the temperature changes.
Set yourself up at the hub with a 3×3m support tent, chairs, your nutrition, and plenty of water. Bring spare clothes and extra shoes, especially if you’re planning to push deep into the event. Remember, this isn’t a traditional ultra where you run nonstop — it’s more like interval training: run a yard, stop, reset, then go again every hour on the hour. Staying warm between loops is crucial so your muscles don’t tighten up.
Most importantly, bring yourself, your determination, and a fighting spirit ready to outfox the course.
No, this is a solo run event. Your team can share your experience by being your support crew.
Registration is available online through our website www.deepcreekbackyardultra.com.au. So secure your spot and join us. Spots are limited.
To maintain the highest standard of safety for participants, staff, the general public, and local wildlife within the forest ecosystem, Coastal Track and Trail Runners operates our events with a zero-tolerance policy regarding audio devices. There are farm houses very close to the course, roads are not closed. Please refer to Official Race Rule No.6 for full explanation on this question.
42.2km - 21.1km - 12km - 7km
Port Macquarie
21.1km - 14km - 7km - 4km
Port Macquarie
217km - 160km - 100km solo - 100km Stage - 75km Stage - 50km - 25km - 13km - 5km - 2.5km kids
Port Macquarie
21.1km - 14km - 7km - 4km
Coopernook
6.7km 1 lap on the hour, every hour, until 1 is left
Port Macquarie
Trail Running Groups that train and play together
Port Macquarie
