Midnight on the Mesa
July 18, 2025
It's not just the run, it's the experience...
Experience the thrill of a high desert night race in beautiful Pinedale, Wyoming! Choose from the 5K, 10K, half marathon, or a free kids' race, all capped off with a late-night dance party. This unique dusk-to-dark event starts at an altitude of 7,285', making you feel as though you're running among the stars.
The half marathon kicks off perfectly timed to finish under the rising moon, while the 10K and 5K follow—each running a scenic loop of 4, 2, or 1 laps, respectively. The 3-ish mile loop takes participants up 375' to the top of Mount Airy, offering a breathtaking view of the Wind River Mountains and the expansive Pinedale valley. Then, you'll wind down the two-track and single-track trails back to base camp.
Whether you're tackling the half marathon or enjoying the 5K, this friendly trail race is the perfect way to experience the beauty and adventure of summer in Pinedale!
A Distance for Every Running Enthusiast...
Kids Race (Free) @ 6:30pm
- course approximately 1K
Half Marathon @ 7pm
- 13.1 mile trail race (4-laps)
10K @ 8pm
- 6.2 mile trail race (2-laps)
5K @ 8:30pm
- 3.1 mile trail race (1-lap)
All races will give you the full Midnight on the Mesa race experience, featuring stunning mountain views, a vibrant sunset, and the freedom of being immersed in nature under the emerging stars - an unforgettable adventure!
Registration Details
$60 ($30 Youth Rate for 5K racers ages 8-18)
Must be ages 8+ to participate in the 5K/10K/1/2 marathon. Kids race is FREE but still requires registration; open to ages 12 and under. Parents are welcome to accompany their child out on the course during the kids run. Registration open until July 18 @ 6pm. Registrations after July 1 are not guaranteed race swag.
Good to Know
The course is located on Bureau of Land Management public lands and requires a permit fee for group use; this year's fee is $6.25 per runner and is included in your registration fee.
What's Included with Registration
- An epic trail race under the moon and stars
- Dinner ticket & post run beer token (for those 21+)
- Race swag
- Dance party - bring your best moves!
- Day pass to PAC for post-race hot tub soak
Cancellations: No refunds will be offered. Participant transfers will be allowed until 7pm on July 17 (day prior). There will be a $20 transfer fee for participant changes. In the event of a cancelled event, registrants will be given the option of refund (minus processing fee), transfer to 2026, or donate their registration fee.
Course Details
This course offers minimal technical difficulty, winding through single and two-track trails across high desert sagebrush.
The first half of the course is relatively flat, followed by a gradual to slightly steep 375' climb to the summit of Mount Air. At the top, take a moment to enjoy a 360-degree view of the Wind River Mountains and the Wyoming Range. If you’re lucky, you might spot an antelope rushing across the sagebrush!
After taking in the view, a moderately steep descent leads to a fast, fun section with small downhill stretches, flats, and rollers. For 10K and half marathon runners, head through the race tent, refuel at the aid station, and start your next loop!
Spectators are welcome to join in on the fun at Base Camp however only registered participants and volunteers are allowed on the race course (except accompany parents during the kids race).
Event Parking
Parking near the race site is limited, so we encourage participants to carpool whenever possible. Look for signage off Mesa Road directing you to designated parking areas. Important Note: The parking area is approximately 400 yards from the race start. Participants and spectators should plan to walk to the base camp. If you require accommodations, please contact us in advance for assistance.
Thursday, July 17
4pm-7pm: Race check-in at PAC
Friday, July 18
5pm-6:30pm: Race check-in at the race site
6:30pm: Kids Race
7pm: Half Marathon Start Time
8pm: 10K Start Time
8:30pm: 5K Start Time
9pm-12pm: Dance Party!
Course closes to all participants at 11pm
This is the hub of all the action!
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Start/Finish Tent: only runners preparing for or finishing their race will be allowed in the tent area.
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Fire: Stay warm throughout the race, meet new friends, and create the perfect s’more.
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Food: Each racer will receive a dinner voucher. Additional meal tickets can be purchased.
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Hydration: Stay hydrated! Be sure to bring your own refillable water bottle (the race is cupless) and refill at the hydration station.
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Music & Dance Party: Get ready to groove with glo-lights and fun music at the dance party central.
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Beer Trailer: Racers aged 21+ will receive a free beer token! Additional beers available for purchase.
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Camping: While camping isn’t officially part of the event, being that the event is on BLM public lands participants are welcome to pitch a tent.
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A designated first aid station will be available and staffed for the full duration of the event. Please keep in mind these other safety practices:
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Headlamps: For the safety of all participants, headlamps are required for all athletes on the course starting 30 minutes before sundown. Plan ahead... you'll thank us later!
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Dogs (or other animals): We love training with our fur babies too, but for safety reasons, dogs will not be allowed on the course or at base camp with the exception of service animals.
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Alcohol: there will be beer provided post race for adult consumption. Please drink responsibly and be sure to keep your body hydrated.
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Weather: Average temperatures in July typically range from 70s during the day to 40s at night. We recommend layered —after all, this is Wyoming! The race will go on, rain, snow, or shine! In the event of severe weather, we will implement appropriate safety measures.
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Altitude: This race starts at 7,285 feet. For those not accustomed to physical exertion at higher elevations, please be mindful and alert for any signs of altitude sickness. And most importantly—stay hydrated.
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Animals: The Mesa is free of snakes (at least the big, poisonous ones), and it's rare to encounter a bear this far south. However, this BLM land lies within some of the largest migration corridors for deer and antelope, as well as open-range cattle areas. Please be respectful of any wildlife (or cattle) you encounter—give them their space and leave their land as undisturbed as possible.
Top finisher awards will be given to the overall male and female fastest finisher in each race distance (5K, 10K, 1/2 Marathon)
