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!