Bunyan Battle 5K Run/Walk
When is Bunyan Battle 5K Run/Walk?
Bunyan Battle 5K Run/Walk takes place on Saturday, November 7, 2026 in Brighton, MI.
What distances does Bunyan Battle 5K Run/Walk offer?
Bunyan Battle 5K Run/Walk offers 4 events: Wolverine 5K Run/Walk, Spartan 5K Run/Walk, Virtual 5K Run/Walk (Wolverines), Virtual 5K Run/Walk (Spartans).
| Event | Distance | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wolverine 5K Run/Walk | 5.0 km | $40.00 | Register |
| Spartan 5K Run/Walk | 5.0 km | $40.00 | Register |
| Virtual 5K Run/Walk (Wolverines) 16 spots left | 5.0 km | $55.00 | Register |
| Virtual 5K Run/Walk (Spartans) 5 spots left | 5.0 km | $55.00 | Register |
How much does Bunyan Battle 5K Run/Walk cost?
Registration for Bunyan Battle 5K Run/Walk starts at $40.00. Prices vary by event distance.
Where is Bunyan Battle 5K Run/Walk held?
Bunyan Battle 5K Run/Walk is held in Brighton, MI at 6301 Kensington Road.
About Bunyan Battle 5K Run/Walk
🏃♂️ Bunyan Battle 5K Run/Walk
📅 Saturday, November 7th, 2026
📍 Island Lake Recreation Area | Brighton, MI
(Must have a MI State Park pass for entry)
About the Race 🏃♂️
Join us for the 2nd Annual "Bunyan Battle 5K" at Island Lake State Park in Brighton, MI!
Get ready to kick off game day in the best possible way - with a run! The Bunyan Battle 5K Run/Walk brings fans together (and sometimes divides them 😉) as Michigan and Michigan State football face off later in the day.
The scenic out and back course at Island Lake State Park on the Island Lake Trail showcases fall colors at their peak on a completely paved 5K course. It's the perfect setting for runners, walkers, and football fans alike. This race is for all fitness levels!
Registration Includes:
⏱️ Chip Timed 5K with Live Results (2.5K Split Time + Rankings!)
🏆 Overall & Age Group Awards
👕 Dri-Fit Participant T-Shirt
🥇 Custom Finisher Medal
📸 FREE Race Photos
+ Post Race Refreshments!
Packet Pick-Up Info:
📍 Location: Island Lake Recreation Area
🗓️ Day: Saturday, November 7th (Race Day)
⏰ Time: 6:30 AM – 8:45 AM
Race Start Time:
🏁 5K Run/Walk – 9AM
Show Out for your Team and Wear your favorite gear!
Rep your team! Participants are encouraged to wear their favorite MI or MI State gear - let's see who takes the win on the course before kickoff!
The Battle for Bunyan Challenge
The top 4 fastest male and female times for each team (Michigan vs. Michigan State) will accrue and the lowest amount of time elapsed will win the Paul Bunyan Trophy! We will be keeping track of our Top 4 Qualifying Runners each year, as well as keeping a running time from year to year as well as a running all time record for the Race.
Age Groups/Awards
Awards:
Overall Awards: Top (3) Male and Top (3) Female Overall
Age Group Awards: Top (1) Male and Top (1) Female in Each Age Group
Age Groups:
14 & Under
15-19
20-29
30-39
40-49
50-59
60-69
70+
Course Map
5K COURSE MAP
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100% Paved (Island Lake Trail)
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Out and Back 5K
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2.5K Split Time at Turnaround
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Course Marked with Cones/Yard Signs
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Lead Biker
FAQ'S
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Can you run with a stroller?
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We welcome parents with jogging strollers - just note some areas may be a bit bumpy
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Your child must remain securely fastened inside the stroller while on the course for safety and insurance reasons
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Can you run with a dog?
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We love dogs! Because of our love for dogs, we do not allow them to participate in a race designed for people unless they are service dogs.
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