Run Wild 5K at the North Carolina Zoo

Event Overview

• Event Name: Run Wild 5K
• Date: June 13, 2026
• Start Time: 7:30 a.m.
• Location: NC Zoo Solar Pointe, Asheboro, NC

SOLD OUT

• Surprise: The 2026 event sold out within hours of opening on February 1.
• Acknowledgment: We are sorry if you were not able to get in.
• Future Participation: We hope you'll be able to join us next year!

Purpose of the Event

• Impact: This event isn’t just about running—it’s about making a difference.
• Benefit: All registration fees go directly toward protecting our native salamander populations.
• Significance: Salamanders are small but vital species living right beneath our feet.

Registration Benefits

• Included: Each registration comes with a Zoo ticket, an event tee, and a commemorative sticker.

Race Course

• Location: The race will take place on North Carolina Zoo property.
• Route: The route is on paved visitor pathways and features rolling hills typical to the foothills of North Carolina.
• Course Details: The course begins at the North America Connector road, continues through the Africa and North America continents, and concludes at Solar Pointe picnic area.
• Wildlife Sounds: Don’t be surprised if you hear the roar of lions or howling of red wolves along the way!

Post-Race Celebration

• Refreshments: There will be refreshments and festivities at Solar Pointe for participants to enjoy in celebration of completing the race.

Viewing Information

• Start/Finish Lines: The start and finish lines are near Solar Pointe, just outside Zoo gates.
• Spectator Access: Spectators can watch and cheer for friends and family at both the start and finish.
• Course Access: Spectators will not be allowed to access any parts of the course inside the Zoo during the race.
• Zoo Opening: The Zoo will open to all guests at 9 a.m. after the race concludes.

Participation Details

• Age Requirement: This event is open to all ages, walkers and runners alike.
• Course Time Limit: You need to be able to complete the event in 90 minutes because that’s when the course closes.

Registration Limit

• Participants: Registration is limited to 650 participants!

More Information

• Website: For more details, visit Run Wild 5K Registration.