In 17 days · Sun, Sep 13, 2026
Don't let race day sneak up
One email during race week. That's it.
Sunday, September 13th, 2026
8450 W. 10 Mile Road, Royal Oak MI
5K · 1 Mile
57–76°F · some rain risk
See last 10 years
On this date: rain 3 of the last 10 years
2025
59–76°F
dry
2024
64–81°F
dry
2023
50–66°F
dry
2022
53–75°F
dry
2021
63–73°F
rain
2020
59–77°F
rain
2019
61–85°F
rain
2018
59–78°F
dry
2017
58–76°F
dry
2016
60–80°F
dry
Best months to race in Michigan →
About this race
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.
- Location: Start the race on 10 Mile Service Drive
- Route: Dash through neighboring Huntington Woods
- Finish: Finish inside the Zoo
- Fun Walk: Starts at 8:45 a.m.
- Distance: Take a 1.25-mile stroll through the Zoo
- Pace: Wander the Detroit Zoo at a leisurely pace
- Activities: Enjoy educational activities and treat stations along the way
Race Packets
- Pickup: 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
- Time: Available 6 to 7:30 a.m. on Sunday, Sept. 13.
- Deadline: Registration closes 30 minutes before the race starts.
- Timing: Start timing mats turn off 10 minutes after the official race start.
- Gun Time: Runners starting late will be assigned gun time (official race start time).
- Tickets: 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.
- Start Times: 5K begins promptly at 8 a.m. and Fun Walk begins at 8:45 a.m.
- Membership: Run Wild for the Detroit Zoo is a special event and is not included with a Detroit Zoological Society membership.
- Registration: Required for all participants ages 2 and older. Members who wish to participate in Run Wild must register for the event.
- Finish Line: 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.
- Safety: 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.
For more information, visit the official race page: Run Wild for the Detroit Zoo.
Course map
Train with a club
Run clubs near Royal Oak to train with before race day.
Suggested Races
Organize this race?
Claim it free to manage your listing — and get it featured for free, while spots last.













