Burros in the Pines

Event Info

• Please secure a burro prior to registering: Burro rental is a separate fee, not included with race registration.
• Team Limit: This event is limited to 100 teams, each consisting of one burro and one person.
• Proceeds Support: The Burros in the Pines race proudly supports Forever Home Donkey Rescue & Sanctuary.
• Location: Set against the scenic backdrop of Flagstaff, Arizona, in Fort Tuthill County Park.

Race Overview

Teams of one human and one burro can tackle a 3, 6, or 9-mile course. This unique pack burro race honors the historic role these resilient animals played in mining and hauling supplies across Arizona's rugged terrain.

Race Rules

General Rules

• Burro Requirement: Racers must secure a burro prior to registering.
• Team Requirement: No solo runners allowed: pack burro racing is a team sport.
• Permitted Animals: Only donkeys/burros are allowed: no horses or hybrids.
• No Riding: This is an in-hand trail race: donkeys must be sound and healthy.

Race Teams

• Team Formation: 1 human runner & 1 burro must remain a team throughout the race.
• Race Completion: The runner and burro team must cross the finish line as a unit.
• Tie Breaker: In the event of a tie, prize money will be equally divided.
• Disqualification: Swapping burros with another runner will result in disqualification.

Pack Saddle & Gear

• 3 & 6 mile: Pack saddle optional.
• 9 mile: Required to have a pack saddle carrying specific items to qualify for prizes.
• Equipment Requirement: Missing or lost equipment will result in disqualification.
• Hoof Boots: Recommended for this course.

Control of Burro

• Team Control: Runners must keep their burro under control and remain on designated trails.
• Trail Etiquette: Allow faster teams to pass and avoid interfering with others.
• Return Policy: Teams must return to where the lead rope was dropped if they lose control.
• Honorable Finish: Make course corrections and do not give up on your burro's race.

Veterinary Checks

• Pre-Race Checks: All burros should ideally have a veterinary check before the race.
• Coggins Test: Out-of-state burros must have a negative coggins test and health certificate.
• Arizona Residents: Burros residing in Arizona are not required to have these documents.

Schedule

Listed times may change.

Thursday, June 24, 2027

• Travelers start to arrive and get settled in.
• 12:00 pm Race Director arrives on site.

Friday, June 25, 2027

• 3:00 pm Obstacle course set up.
• 3:00 – 7:30 pm Meet and greet your leased burro.
• 6:00 – 7:30 pm Registration.
• 9:00 pm Treasure Hunt with burro.

Saturday, June 26, 2027

Race Day

• 6:00 am Race burro preparations.
• 7:00 am Mandatory race meeting.
• 8:30 am Race starts.
• 2:00 pm Awards ceremony.

Sunday, June 27, 2027

• 9:00 am Mad Ass Dash.
• Concludes events for 2027 Burros in the Pines.

Volunteers Wanted!

We’re gearing up for the Inaugural Event of Burros in the Pines and we’d love your help. If you’re available and want to be part of a fun, energetic community day, please sign up to volunteer. Your support makes a huge difference, and we truly appreciate it.

Race Info: Burros in the Pines