Conceptually, this is perhaps the coolest fun run I’ve ever participated in.

400+ runners were bussed from Las Vegas last night to the remote town of Rachel, Nevada, just outside of Area 51. Dumped off in the middle of the desert, runners had 4 different races to choose from – a full marathon, a half marathon, a 10K or a 51K. Not being in the best of shape, my fiancee and I chose to participate in the 10K.

Races took place along the famed Extraterrestrial Highway, and all ended up at the same location – the Little Ale’Inn restaurant/bar/alien gift shop in Rachel. The only light for us to run by was natural light from the almost-full moon, and the headlamps/flashlights, glow necklaces, and reflective tape that every runner was required to wear.

Upon finishing, we were all greeted with a hot breakfast at the Little Ale’Inn, and for some who couldn’t resist, beer and eggs at 3 in the morning.

The race is an annual event organized by Calico Racing out of Vegas, and definitely one I would recommend.