Bunyan Battle 5K Run/Walk
Sat, Nov 7, 2026, 4:00 AM EST
- Type
- Run
Finish signup on the organizer site (check fees and dates there).
Race feel
Kick off GameDay with a spirited 5K run through vibrant fall colors, celebrating Michigan's football rivalry in a fun, friendly battle.
- Fun
- Scenic
- Competitive
- Quirky
- Festive
Fun
Scenic
Competitive
Quirky
FestiveGreat for
- Beginner Friendly
Beginner FriendlyJoin the 2nd Annual Bunyan Battle 5K Run/Walk at Island Lake State Park in Brighton, MI. This event is a spirited way to kick off GameDay, bringing Michigan and Michigan State football fans together for a friendly rivalry. Enjoy a scenic, paved out-and-back course that highlights the vibrant fall colors. Designed for all fitness levels, it's a perfect blend of running, walking, and football enthusiasm, encouraging participants to show their team pride.
What to expect
- Run or walk a completely paved 5K course through Island Lake State Park, enjoying peak fall colors.
- Show your team spirit by wearing your favorite UofM or MSU fan gear.
- Receive a custom finisher medal, Dri-Fit shirt, and enjoy post-race refreshments.
Standout details
- Michigan vs. Michigan State rivalry
- Scenic paved course with fall colors
- Custom finisher medal & race shirt
- Overall & age group awards
Perks & features
- Awards
- Chip Timed
- Food & Drink
- Medal
- Race Photos
- Shirt
- Swag Included
Awards
Chip Timed
Food & Drink
Medal
Race Photos
Shirt
Swag IncludedFrom the public listing; confirm on the official site.
Distances & registration
2 optionsUse the official signup link above for all distances.
5K
2 options · closes Nov 7, 2026, 4:00 AM EST
6mo 8d 19h 51m leftVirtual 5K Run/Walk (Spartans)
Closes Nov 7, 2026, 4:00 AM EST · From $60.31
Virtual 5K Run/Walk (Wolverines)
Closes Nov 7, 2026, 4:00 AM EST · From $60.31
Summaries use public event text. Confirm schedule, fees, and rules on the official page before you sign up.
From the organizer
🪵🪓Bunyan Battle 5K Run/Walk 🏃♂️ 📅 Saturday, November 7th, 2026 📍 Island Lake State 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 GameDay 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 and all fans!
Registration Includes:
⏱️ Chip Timed Race with Live Results 👕 Custom Dri-Fit Race Shirt (upgrade to Tank Top for $5) 🏷️ Commemorative Race Bib 🏅 Custom Finisher Medal 🏆 Overall & Age Group Awards 📸 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 fan gear! Rep your team! Participants are encouraged to wear their favorite UofM or MSU swag.
Who REALLY has the best in the State of Michigan? Go tow to toe with your in-state Foe's! Go Blue? Hail Yes? OR Go Green Go White? 🪵🪓🏈