The Flaming Unicorn

It's the 10-year anniversary of BFF!

And to celebrate, we are debuting the Flaming Unicorn, a free night run that begins at 8:00 PM after BFF has wrapped up.

The Flaming Unicorn is a BFF tradition that started in year two or three, when someone suggested we throw on our headlamps after the festivities had wrapped up and see if we could run to the top of the Horseshoe without falling into a cactus bush. I don’t know who said it, but someone pointed out that our headlamps made us look like flaming unicorns running up the ridge. And just like that, the Flaming Unicorn was born. It didn’t last long. But good lord was it fun!

In 2026, to commemorate all the traditions and stories that have grown out of this event, we’re bringing it back. Rain or shine, every runner, volunteer, spectator, and anyone else who wants in is invited. And no, we’re not just running to the top of the Horseshoe:

• Flaming 5k - follows the Horseshoe Hustle 5 route
• Flaming 10k - follows the Beaver Fever 10 route

There will be a disco party at Aid Station 1 - Windsor Knot. Flaming 5k runners will take a little detour down to this aid station to get in on the party before turning around and returning to the normal Horseshoe Hustle route. Expect a full-on aid station party with snacks, hugs, and maybe even a little you and me go fishing in the dark.

Bib pickup starts at 7:00 p.m. And you aren't going to want to miss the merch and swag!

This is not a timed event. It’s more party than race — but we’re aiming to have everyone back by 10:00 p.m.

If you want to be part of the Flaming Unicorn but the night run isn’t your thing, consider joining the Flaming Unicorn volunteer team instead. We’ll also need at least four course sweepers to make sure all unicorns arrive back at the finish line safely. Check out the volunteer page if you are interested.

All ages welcome, but children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by a parent or caregiver. And you have 2 hours to get those kids across the finish line, so don't party too hard!

DON'T FORGET YOUR HEADLAMPS!