Lace up your running shoes — Run Wild for the Detroit Zoo is back!

Join thousands of runners and walkers on Sunday, Sept. 10 for the Run Wild for the Detroit Zoo, presented 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

Register NOW through March 31 to get early bird pricing.

5k Run


In-person
$45

Fun Walk


In-person
$40

5K RUN/WALK


Virtual
$45

1 Mile Fun Walk

Virtual
$40

 


Why We Run
Run Wild for the Detroit Zoo raises critical funds for the Ruth Roby Glancy Animal Health Complex and helps us provide outstanding veterinary care for the animals at the Detroit Zoo and Belle Isle Nature Center.

All participants receive:
  • A commemorative T-shirt*
  • A unique, collectible finisher medal upon completion of the race that highlights a different animal each year
  • Complimentary food, beverages, entertainment and children’s activities at the Post Race party presented by Michigan First Credit Union.
  • Admission to the Detroit Zoo following the race
*T-shirt availability is not guaranteed for registration after Sept. 1.

Meet Our Mascots — Lenny and Jeffery! This year, Run Wild is celebrating the fastest animal at the Detroit Zoo — the wildebeest! These close cousins of the antelope can sprint up to 50 miles per hour, ranking them among the world’s fastest land mammals. Not only do wildebeests have speed on their side, but they also are masters of distance. Each year, more than 1.5 million wildebeests complete a 300-mile migration loop through Tanzania and Kenya. This annual journey is recognized as one of the seven wonders of the natural world. After you complete your Run Wild 5K or Fun Walk, join us for a day at the Detroit Zoo to meet resident wildebeests Jeffery and Lenny and learn more about what makes them the perfect race mascots.

Start Times

  • 5K Run – 8 a.m. – 10 Mile Road entrance of the Detroit Zoo (USATF sanctioned)
  • Fun Walk – 8:45-10:15 a.m. – Inside the Detroit Zoo (non-competitive, untimed)
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.

The event takes place rain or shine. Registration is required for participants ages 2 and older.