In 40 days · Sat, Nov 7, 2026
Don't let race day sneak up
One email during race week. That's it.
When
Saturday, November 7th, 2026
Where
Island Lake State Park, Brighton MI
Distance
5K
Typical weather
37–51°F · low rain risk
See last 10 years
On this date: rain 1 of the last 10 years
2025
42–56°F
rain
2024
43–56°F
dry
2023
41–56°F
dry
2022
40–53°F
dry
2021
40–61°F
dry
2020
50–67°F
dry
2019
26–35°F
dry
2018
37–44°F
dry
2017
35–45°F
dry
2016
44–63°F
dry
Best months to race in Michigan →
About this race
Bunyan Battle 5K Run/Walk
Date and Location
- Date: Saturday, November 7th, 2026
- Venue: Island Lake Recreation Area
- City: Brighton, MI
- Entry Requirement: Must have a State Park pass for entry
About the Race
- Inaugural Event: Join us for the inaugural "Bunyan Battle 5K"!
- Game Day Kickoff: Get ready to kick off game day in the best possible way - with a run!
- Friendly Rivalry: This race is your chance to show your colors as Michigan and Michigan State football face off later in the day.
- Scenic Course: The course showcases fall colors at their peak on a completely paved 5K trail.
Registration Includes
- Chip Timed: 5K with Live Results
- Awards: Overall & Age Group Awards
- T-Shirt: Dri-Fit Participant T-Shirt (Michigan themed Shirt & MSU themed Shirt!)
- Finisher Medal: Awesome medal (Michigan themed Medal & MSU themed Medal)
- Race Photos: FREE Race Photos
- Refreshments: 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
5K Race Start Time
- Start Time: 5K Run/Walk – 9AM
Show Out for your Team
- Team Spirit: Participants are encouraged to wear their favorite MI or MI State gear.
- Competition: Let's see who takes the win on the course before kickoff!
The Battle for Bunyan Challenge
- Team Competition: The top 4 fastest male and female times for each team will accrue.
- Trophy: The lowest amount of time elapsed will win the Paul Bunyan Trophy!
- Ongoing Records: We will be keeping track of our Top 4 Qualifying Runners each year.
- All Time Record: A running all time record will be maintained for the Race.
For More Information
- Registration: Bunyan Battle 5K Registration
Course map
Hotels for race weekend
Live prices near the start line, Nov 6 – 8, 2026.
Train with a club
Run clubs near Brighton to train with before race day.
See all run clubs near Brighton →
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