The 30th Annual Run Wild for the Detroit Zoo takes place on September 13, 2026, in Royal Oak, Michigan, at 8450 W. 10 Mile Road. The event offers both 5-mile and 5K options for runners and walkers, with races starting at 8:00 AM. Entry fees range from $28 to $65 depending on registration timing and distance selected. If you can't make it to Royal Oak on race day, a virtual participation option is available. This event combines competitive racing with fundraising for the Detroit Zoo, making it a community-focused morning event for endurance athletes of all levels.
From the Race Organizer
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.
Hotels Near This Race
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30th Annual Run Wild for the Detroit Zoo 2026 — Royal Oak, MI
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Race Travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for September 13.
You've trained for months and booked a trip to Royal Oak, MI.
A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing.
Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it,
and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run
5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no
additional coverage needed.
Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
When is 30th Annual Run Wild for the Detroit Zoo 2026 — Royal Oak, MI?
30th Annual Run Wild for the Detroit Zoo 2026 — Royal Oak, MI takes place on September 13, 2026. The race is held in Royal Oak, Michigan.
Where is 30th Annual Run Wild for the Detroit Zoo 2026 — Royal Oak, MI held?
30th Annual Run Wild for the Detroit Zoo 2026 — Royal Oak, MI is held at 8450 W. 10 Mile Road in Royal Oak, Michigan.
Where can I find hotels near 30th Annual Run Wild for the Detroit Zoo 2026 — Royal Oak, MI?
RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Royal Oak. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.
