DIY Backyard Obstacles: How far down do the posts need to be in the ground?

When it comes to building your own backyard obstacle course or ninja course, one of the questions I get asked all the time is how far you should dig the holes when setting posts into the ground.

I like to go 1/4 of the size of the post into the ground. So, if you have a 16FT post, then 4FT of it will be in the ground. A 12FT post, then 3 FT into the ground. and so forth. And depending on where you live digging the holes can be the most labor intensive part of the entire build if you get to digging and run into rocks, concrete, or other fun things in the dirt. I've been on a build where it should've taken a couple of hours to dig the holes, and ended up taking a day and a half because of running into rocks starting at like four inches into the ground! You think your body has been sore after running these races? Wait until you have to dig holes for a full day, in the middle of summer, when it's 100 degrees outside... Can we say NO FUN. But this is the foundation, so don't skimp on something that could cost you later on down the road or even worse compromise the safety of your rig.

And BEFORE you start going hog wild with digging, make sure you know where your water, gas, electric, cable, ANYTHING that has lines running underground are. No matter what state you live in, you can call 811 and get an appointment set up where they will come out and mark where your utility lines run. And it doesn't cost a thing.

Do you have any questions about about a build project you're working on at home? Or maybe a project you might be thinking of working on but you're unsure of a few things? Send me your questions! I'm more than happy to help if I can!

1 comment

  • You wrote this blog very well. Very knowledgeable. Thanks for sharing this

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