30th Annual Run Wild for the Detroit Zoo

Join thousands of runners and walkers on Sunday, Sept. 13 for Run Wild for the Detroit Zoo, sponsored by Michigan First Credit Union. During this annual event, you can compete in a 5K run or enjoy a stroll through the Zoo with our non-competitive Fun Walk.

Important Participant Information:

Race Options

5K - 

• Starts at 8 a.m.
• Start the race on 10 Mile Service Drive
• Dash through neighboring Huntington Woods
• Finish inside the Zoo

Fun Walk-

• Starts at 8:45 a.m.
• Take a 1.25-mile stroll through the Zoo
• Wander the Detroit Zoo at a leisurely pace
• Enjoy educational activities and treat stations along the way

Race Packets

• In-Person Packet Pickup & Guest Registration will be available in the 10 Mile Parking Lot at the Detroit Zoo during the following times:
  • Saturday, Sept. 12 – 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  • Sunday, Sept. 13 – 6 a.m. to 7:30 a.m.
• Virtual Packets can be mailed for an additional fee. 

Race Day Registration

• Available 6 to 7:30 a.m. on Sunday, Sept. 13.
• Registration closes 30 minutes before the race starts.
• Start timing mats turn off 10 minutes after the official race start.
• Runners starting late will be assigned gun time (official race start time).
• Spectator tickets are available during the registration process.
  • Adults $15
  • Children $10

Important Race Day Reminders!

🚧 10 Mile Road will be closed for the 5K—expect heavy traffic! Arrive early to avoid delays.

• 5K begins promptly at 8 a.m.
• Fun Walk begins at 8:45 a.m. 
• Run Wild for the Detroit Zoo is a special event and is not included with a Detroit Zoological Society membership.
• Registration is required for all participants ages 2 and older. Members who wish to participate in Run Wild must register for the event. 
• The 5K finish line is inside the Zoo. Those wishing to see their family or friends finish the race must purchase a Spectator admission. Spectator admission for this special event can be purchased in conjunction with race registration or during packet pickup hours. Spectators with wristbands must enter the Zoo by 9 a.m. Please note, members cannot use their membership to get into the Zoo until it opens to the general public at 9 a.m.
• For the safety of all participants, bicycles, skateboards, roller blades, roller skates and animals are not allowed at Run Wild for the Detroit Zoo. 
Strollers are permitted for the Fun Walk and the back of the 5K race.

Join fellow runners on September 13, 2026 for the 30th Annual Run Wild for the Detroit Zoo. It's a fantastic 5K, 2K featuring a flat and fast course in Royal Oak.