The Babbitts Backyard Ultra returns to Flagstaff, Arizona on September 26th, challenging runners with a unique endurance event that tests the limits of human perseverance in one-hour intervals. The race begins promptly at 6:00 AM, signaling the start of each loop with a bell and concluding it with another ring exactly an hour later. Competitors must complete a distance of 4.167 miles within this timeframe to continue on to the next round. This event takes place near SP Crater, offering runners stunning views as they navigate through both dirt trails and paved roads that weave around the iconic landmark. Race day in Flagstaff presents early morning conditions with temperatures ranging from approximately 50°F at dawn to a high of about 74°F by mid-morning. The weather is typically dry but cool enough to allow for comfortable running, especially as runners will be moving through one-hour increments under these consistent temperature and humidity levels. Participants can expect clear skies without the threat of rain throughout their run. The Babbitts Backyard Ultra has become a local tradition in Flagstaff since its inception, drawing endurance enthusiasts who are eager to push themselves beyond conventional marathon distances by tackling this unique format where every hour brings new challenges along with stunning views near SP Crater. Each loop covers 4.167 miles and features an elevation gain of about 150 feet, providing both physical and mental tests for competitors aiming to see how far they can go in these grueling intervals.
Last Person Standing Start: 06:00:00 • Fee: $85.00
Competitors must register online through the provided link at https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=130700, where they will find all necessary information including deadlines and fees for this year’s event. Bib pickup is available on race day from 4:30 PM until the start time of 6:00 AM near SP Crater at Tub Ranch Road mileposts 447-448. Participants must ensure they arrive well before their designated starting hour, bringing identification and proof of registration if required. The official start location is located at 447-448 mile post on Tub Ranch Rd in Flagstaff, Arizona. Runners are advised to check the race website for any specific age requirements or additional guidelines that may apply. The Babbitts Backyard Ultra concludes when one runner remains standing after all others have been unable to complete a full loop within an hour. This event, held annually near SP Crater in Flagstaff, Arizona on September 26th, attracts those who are not just looking for another race but rather a deep dive into personal endurance and community support as part of the local running culture.
Races Offered
Last Person Standing ( 4.167 mile loop )
Sep 26, 2026
straighten
Distance —
6.7K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
06:00
sell
$85.00
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for September in Flagstaff.
thermostatTemperature
11.3° / 23.8°
wb_sunnyFeels like
8.2° / 19.3°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
11h 27m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
0.7 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
11.5 km/h (Light breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Moderate
terrain
Course conditions
Firm and slightly soft
sunny
Max UV Index
Moderate (5.0)
humidity_mid
Humidity
43.8%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
06:09
nightlight
Sunset
18:31
About Flagstaff
Learn more about the host city, Flagstaff.
Flagstaff is a city of over 75,000 people (2019) near the San Francisco Peaks mountain range of northern Arizona and the Grand Canyon. At an altitude of 6,990 ft (2,130 m), Flagstaff and much of the surrounding region are substantially cooler than the low desert that dominates the southern part of the state. Though still dry by east coast standards, enough rain and snow falls in the area to allow a forest of ponderosa pine trees to cover the landscape. Winters tend to be cold, and heavy snowfall is expected on an annual basis.
