BACK 40

TRAIL RACES

Saturday, November 9, 2024

5 13 20 and 40 Miles

We are back and excited to see everyone again this year. Registration is open on Race Wizard. This year Back 40 will be a one day event. Early November should be a great time to be on the trails and to spend some time together post race. Course details will be posted once finalized. There are so many trails for us to use and we want to change things up a bit every year so that you get to see as much as possible.

 The Back 40 Run will be held on the second weekend in November. Come experience some of the best trail systems in northwest Arkansas. The Back 40 and Little Sugar. The Back 40 opened in 2016 and is nationally known. Little Sugar fully opened in 2021 and has quickly gained popularity. Located in Bella Vista, Arkansas the trails feature over 80 miles of pure Arkansas singletrack. Dirt, rocks, roots, ravines, bridges, waterfalls – we have it all. This two-day event, brought to you by the organizers of the award-winning War Eagle Trail Races and the City of Bella Vista, brings folks together to race through the woods. Push some limits, and have a blast doing it while providing funds to maintain and improve the trail system.

Here in Bella Vista, we have deep woods, generous climbs and stunning views. We took advantage of this topography when Mayor Peter Christie said to build some trails! These trails meander through the woods, splash through streams, hug bluff lines and cross specially built breathtaking bridges. You’re going to want to stop for a selfie. And then, when you finish, take one with Mayor Christie, who waits at the finish!

Participants will get a shirt with the phenomenal race logo, designed by local artist and runner Ryan Holler. Finishers awards will be given to all participants. Overall top finishers (male and female) will receive podium awards as well.

THE DETAILS

  • The event is headquartered at Blowing Springs Park. The park is located at 948 Blowing Springs Rd. in Bella Vista, AR 72714. Parking will be available nearby at Cooper Elementary School and the Sporting KC soccer fields.

  • The course are mostly singletrack (short paved segments for the start and finish and to connect trails) and will be well-marked. Cutoff for the 20 mile distance is 10 hours. If you are running the 40 mile event (2 loops) you must start your second loop no late than 4 hours and 50 minutes after the start.

  • Fully stocked aid stations will be available throughout the course, staffed with experienced runners and riders who love a party!

  • Participation is limited due to trail capacity. If you want in, sign up early. Registration deferrals or rollovers will not be accepted. No refunds.

  • Safety sweepers and emergency personnel will be available to assist anyone that drops or gets pulled out to the finishing area.

  • RV and primitive camping is available with reservations at Blowing Springs Park. Make reservations by calling the park office at (479) 855-8073 or email joang@bvvpoa.com for info. If you make a reservation for a vacation rental home through Vacation Rentals, Inc. for this event, mention City of Bella Vista Back 40 to get a special rate on a two-bedroom unit. Call them at 479-855-111, or visit http://www.vacationrentalsinc.net/.

  • Catfish John’s will be providing free food to registered runners.

  • 1611’ Photography will capture all of the action over the weekend and race photos will be available free of charge to participants.

  • Proceeds from this event are donated to the City of Bella Vista and earmarked for future trail projects including trail maintenance and amenities.

 

Aid stations for longer distances will be available and staffed with experienced trail enthusiasts. Distances between aid stations will be 4-7 miles.

 The number of participants will be limited. If you want to come out and play with us sign up early. We will not maintain a wait list for any event. 

 One drop bag will be allowed for distances over 20 miles. In addition, all racers can leave finish line drop bags at the start/finish area.

No refunds. Registration deferrals or rollovers will not be accepted. Additionally, there will be no changes in sizes for shirts once the order is submitted to our vendor. 

 

To stay up to date on the latest developments follow us on our Facebook page and bookmark our website.

See you in November on the Back 40.