Celebrating 30 Years of Wild Miles

For 30 years, Run Wild has invited thousands of people to run (or walk) through the Detroit Zoo and turn those miles into meaningful support for animals and nature. To mark this milestone anniversary, we’re spotlighting an animal that perfectly embodies the spirit of our running community: The alpaca.

Known for their resilience, curiosity and strong connection to their herd, alpacas remind us that we’re stronger together. This year, we invite you to join our herd as we pave the way for the next 30 years of supporting incredible animal health and well-being at the Detroit Zoo and Belle Isle Nature Center.

Whether you’re a serious runner aiming for a PR or a family looking for a wild Sunday stroll, Run Wild 2026, presented by Michigan First Credit Union, is your chance to be part of Zoo history.

Event Details

Date: Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026
Start Time: 8 a.m. for 5K Run | 8:45 a.m. for Fun Walk
Location: Detroit Zoo (10 Mile Road Entrance)

Course Note: Strollers are permitted for the Fun Walk and the back of the 5K. Please leave pets, bikes and skates at home.

Buy Early and Save!

Secure your spot by March 31 to get the best possible price. 

The 30th Anniversary Experience

We’re elevating the race-day experience to match the occasion. Here’s what’s new and noteworthy for Year 30:

• Fundraising is here! Sign yourself up, then rally your network to support the cause! 
  
  
• Finish line location. We heard you loud and clear — say goodbye to the back-of-the-zoo finish. The 5K course now concludes in the heart of the Zoo, right in front of the Holtzman Wildlife Foundation Red Panda Forest.
  
  
• Fred and Barbara Erb Discovery Trails access. Registration includes a post-race celebration at Main Picnic Grove and access to the entire Zoo, including the soon-to-be-open Erb Discovery Trails.
  
  
• Commemorative gear. Celebrate with an exclusive 30th anniversary medal and T-shirt.

Fundraise Your Way to a Free Race!

All Run Wild participants can raise funds that directly support the Ruth Roby Glancy Animal Health Complex. Sign up as an individual and rally your family and friends to join the cause! As a bonus, you earn free entry to the race when you raise $150 or more!

Meet This Year’s Mascot

To mark this milestone anniversary, this year’s mascot is an animal that perfectly embodies the spirit of our running community and the future of Erb Discovery Trails: The alpaca.

Known for their resilience, curiosity and strong connection to their herd, alpacas remind us that we’re stronger together. These incredible animals will soon call Erb Discovery Trails home, and there’s no better time to meet them than at Run Wild.

Why We Run

Every step you take directly impacts the animals you love. All proceeds from Run Wild help support the Ruth Roby Glancy Animal Health Complex, ensuring world-class medical care for every species that calls the Detroit Zoo and Belle Isle Nature Center home — including new alpacas, who will reside within the Zoo’s new Erb Discovery Trails.