Harvest & Howitzer Backyard Ultra

Harvest & Howitzer Backyard Ultra: A Gathering of Grit and Community
The inaugural Harvest & Howitzer Backyard Ultra is set to take place from April 30 to May 2, 2027, in historic Georgetown, California. This event brings together ultrarunners, community members, and the untamed beauty of the Sierra foothills for a unique experience that honors the spirit of trail running.
Conceived by a team with over three centuries of combined ultrarunning expertise—ranging from Western States finishers to Tevis Cup veterans—the Harvest & Howitzer Backyard Ultra is more than just another race. It's an immersive weekend campout on a private 100-acre Christmas tree and apple farm, where the focus shifts away from traditional race formats towards raw endurance and community bonding.
The event features one continuous loop of 4.167 miles that runners must complete every hour until only one remains standing. This format challenges participants to push their limits while fostering a deep connection with both themselves and others in attendance. The crew area, campfire conversations, shared meals, and the presence of families create an atmosphere rich with support and camaraderie.
Harvest & Howitzer is deeply rooted in the original ethos of ultrarunning—a celebration of grit, endurance, and mutual respect among runners and their supporters. Unlike typical races that emphasize quick finishes and medals, this event encourages a holistic approach to running, where each loop back at camp serves as an opportunity for rest, rejuvenation, and strategic planning.
The weekend is also designed with the next generation in mind, featuring a dedicated kids' race aimed at inspiring young runners while building lasting memories within families. This inclusive environment ensures that everyone from seasoned veterans to newcomers can find joy and purpose in this unique gathering of the trail running community.
Named after Captain John C. Frémont's ill-fated 1843 expedition through the Sierras, where he abandoned a heavy cannon due to harsh conditions, Harvest & Howitzer uses this historical tale as a metaphor for endurance racing. Just like hauling that cumbersome howitzer across rugged terrain symbolizes unwavering determination, so too does every loop in this ultra represent pushing personal boundaries and managing energy wisely.
Ultimately, the event is not just about who crosses the finish line first but rather celebrating those who demonstrate resilience and wisdom throughout their journey. This nonprofit-minded community event aims to support local organizations that contribute significantly to making such experiences possible while embodying values of service, endurance, generosity, and deep human connection.
Join us at Harvest & Howitzer Backyard Ultra for a weekend filled with breathtaking scenery, heartfelt camaraderie, and unforgettable moments in the heart of California's Sierra foothills.