Bunyan Battle 5K Run/Walk

Bunyan Battle 5K Run/Walk takes place at Island Lake State Park in Brighton, Michigan, on November 7, 2026, with the 5K run/walk starting at 9:00 a.m. The 3.1-mile course is run on paved road inside the park, and the event is built around the Michigan and Michigan State football rivalry: wear your colors, and the fastest runners from each side compete for the Paul Bunyan trophy, with results carried over year after year.

All fitness levels are welcome, and the race is chip timed with overall and age-group awards, themed shirts, medals and free race photos. Post-race refreshments are provided. Paved footing in a state park means a fast, honest 5K rather than a technical one, so pacing decides your result: hold back through the first mile and spend what is left after that. Note that a state park pass is required to take part.