Lake Travis New Year's Trail Challenge with Ruck options- 50K | 25K | 1/2 Marathon | Backyard BBQ Ultra | 5K Run/Walk | Kids 1K

New Year's Ultra Celebration!

Ring in the new year with vigor and community spirit at this celebratory running event at Arkansas Bend Park! Challenge yourself with an ultramarathon or another race distance against the beautiful backdrop of the crystal-clear waters of the Colorado River.

This event features four races and caters to both seasoned ultrarunners and first-timers with generous cutoff times for all distances. View the course maps here.

Backyard BBQ Ultra

The Backyard BBQ Ultra, set in the picturesque Arkansas Bend Park on the shores of Lake Travis, offers runners a thrilling endurance challenge with a twist of uncertainty and the option for a full outdoor experience. This event combines the strategic pacing of a backyard ultra with the laid-back atmosphere of a Texas BBQ, all against the stunning backdrop of Lake Travis. Participants will tackle a scenic 4.167-mile (6.71 km) loop through the park's diverse terrain. 

Whether you're an experienced ultra-runner or looking to push beyond your first marathon, the Backyard BBQ Ultra offers a perfect blend of challenge and reward. Come for the run, stay for the BBQ, and create unforgettable memories as you push your limits one loop at a time. Are you ready to earn your plate? Register now and join us for a day of grit, gravel, and grilled goodness!

50K Ultramarathon
Join us for an exhilarating race day where you'll not only challenge your limits but also enjoy a dynamic and ever-changing course layout!  The welcoming environment encourages participants of all paces and fitness levels to take on their next running challenge. Adventure awaits on these scenic sun-bleached limestone bluffs and verdant courses. Running/hiking poles are recommended.    

• 31.1-mile looped course design on trails. and along the river
• 12-hour cutoff time
• TOTAL per loop distance: 7.183 mi
• Elev. gain/loss: 512'/-531'

25K Trail Run
 For those seeking a shorter yet challenging distance, kick off your new year with an epic trail ultrarunning experience that takes you through varied natural scenery! Enjoy a 15.5-mile looped journey through the most scenic areas of Arkansas Bend Park, complete with a 7-hour cutoff time. Running/hiking poles are recommended.

Half Marathon (13.1 miles)
The looped course winds through picturesque areas, highlighting river views, and gentle inclines, suitable for both new and experienced runners.

• 5-hour cutoff time

Half Marathon (13.1 miles) Ruck Division
In a bid to expand the community and embrace a broader spectrum of physical activities, the Challenge also includes a special Ruck Division within the 13.1-mile half-marathon. This division is tailored to individuals looking for a unique challenge that tests endurance, strength, and resilience, providing an alternative to traditional running. Weight Requirements: Participants must carry a weighted backpack. The minimum weight is 20 pounds for participants under 150 pounds and 30 pounds for those over 150 pounds. Weights will be verified at the beginning and end of the race. 

• Course: Ruck Division participants will tackle the same scenic half-marathon course, designed to be both challenging and rewarding, with the added difficulty of the weighted ruck.
• 5-hour cutoff time