The Iron Turtle returns to Coker, Alabama on November 14th, offering a unique twist on the traditional Backyard Ultra format for serious runners looking for an endurance challenge. Located at the intersection of rural charm and trail running excellence, The Iron Turtle unfolds in the serene landscape surrounding Lake Lurleen Road. Runners will start their journey along this scenic route early morning, where dawn breaks over the tranquil lake surroundings, providing a backdrop that balances natural beauty with physical rigor. Participants can expect firm yet slightly soft trail conditions for optimal grip and performance. Since its inception, The Iron Turtle has become a local tradition celebrated by runners eager to push personal boundaries in an environment free from typical race pressure. Each year sees an increase in participation as the event draws both seasoned ultrarunners and novices looking to embark on their longest distance yet. A notable highlight is the support for individual achievement through PRs, with special recognition for those who achieve significant mileage goals even after officially dropping out of contention. The course at The Iron Turtle primarily consists of a 4-mile loop that runners must complete every hour until only one remains standing. This route winds around Lake Lurleen Road and its surrounding trails, featuring natural terrain elements like slight inclines and stretches through wooded areas. Runners can anticipate minimal elevation changes but will encounter varying surface conditions due to the trail's nature. Start times are set for dawn on race day, with temperatures typically ranging from mild to cool in November. The UV index is expected to be low at 2.0 (Low), reducing concerns about sun exposure while still calling for proper hydration and layers appropriate for cooler morning starts turning warmer by afternoon. The Iron Turtle offers a Last Runner Standing challenge | fee=$65.00, designed for serious endurance runners looking to compete in both male and female divisions.
Last Runner Standing Start: 08:00:00 • Fee: $65.00
Registration can be completed through the event's official page at https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=138495 with deadlines adhering strictly to the provided schedule. Bib pickup will take place on-site before race day, typically from 6:00 AM onwards at Lake Lurleen Road near the start location. Runners should gather at 13226 Lake Lurleen Rd by their designated hour for a smooth transition into the loop course. All participants must be 18 years or older to compete in The Iron Turtle, adhering strictly to age requirements and ensuring all necessary identification is brought along on race day. The Iron Turtle in Coker, Alabama, offers an unparalleled endurance test that celebrates individual achievement over competition pressure. Runners who choose this unique challenge gain not only a memorable experience but also the chance for personal recognition through their mileage accomplishments, making it worth attending for any serious trail runner seeking to extend their limits beyond traditional race formats.
Races Offered
Last Runner Standing ( 4 miles loop )
Nov 14, 2026
straighten
Distance —
6.4K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
08:00
sell
$65.00
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for November in Coker.
thermostatTemperature
9.3° / 20.0°
wb_sunnyFeels like
7.2° / 18.6°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
8h 7m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
3.0 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
9.0 km/h (Light breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Low
terrain
Course conditions
Firm and slightly soft
sunny
Max UV Index
Low (2.0)
humidity_mid
Humidity
72.6%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
07:22
nightlight
Sunset
17:48
About Coker
Learn more about the host city, Coker.
Coker is a town in Tuscaloosa County, Alabama, United States. It incorporated in 1999. At the 2020 census, the population was 904. It is part of the Tuscaloosa, Alabama Metropolitan Statistical Area.
