Run Wild 5K at the North Carolina Zoo
- Date
- June 13, 2026
- Distance
- 5K
From the Organizer
SOLD OUT - to the shock of everyone, the 2026 event sold out within hours of opening on February 1. We are sorry if you were not able to get in and hope you'll be able to join us next year!
Welcome to the 2026 Run Wild 5K at the North Carolina Zoo! The event will take place on Saturday, June 13, with a start time of 7:30 a.m.
This event isn't just about running—it's about making a difference. All registration fees go directly toward protecting our native salamander populations, the small but vital species living right beneath our feet.
Each registration comes with a Zoo ticket, an event tee, and a commemorative sticker.
The race will take place on North Carolina Zoo property. The route is on paved visitor pathways and features rolling hills typical to the foothills of North Carolina. The course will begin at the North America Connector road, continue into the Zoo through the Africa and North America continents, and conclude at Solar Pointe picnic area. Don't be surprised if you hear the roar of lions or howling of red wolves along the way!
There will be refreshments and festivities at Solar Pointe for participants to enjoy in celebration of completing the race.
The start and finish lines are near Solar Pointe, just outside Zoo gates. This means spectators are able to watch and cheer for friends and family at both the start and finish. (However, they will not be allowed to access any parts of the course inside the Zoo during the race.) The Zoo will open to all guests at 9 a.m. after the race concludes.
This event is open to all ages, walkers and runners alike. You need to be able to complete the event in 90 minutes because that's when the course closes.
REGISTRATION LIMITED TO 650 PARTICIPANTS!
Distances & Pricing
Race Location
About This Sport
From Endurance Grid's Founder
Endurance Grid is here to help you understand the sport, decide if it's the right fit, and learn how to prepare. For course distances, logistics, and race-day specifics, always defer to the race organizer's event page.
With running, there's a distance for every fitness level, a community at every start line, and nothing beats the feeling of crossing a finish line you trained for.
Running is an endurance sport that rewards consistency, and showing up every week compounds in ways that will surprise you.
Running
From 5K to marathon, running races are the most accessible entry point into endurance sport. There's a distance for every fitness level and a community at every start line.
Coming Up
More running races in NC
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the Run Wild 5K at the North Carolina Zoo?
- Run Wild 5K at the North Carolina Zoo is a running event held in Asheboro, NC. Learn more about the different endurance sports here.
- When and where is the Run Wild 5K at the North Carolina Zoo?
- Saturday, June 13, 2026 in Asheboro, NC at NC Zoo Solar Pointe, Asheboro, NC. Check the official event page for exact start times and wave schedules.
- How do I register for the Run Wild 5K at the North Carolina Zoo?
- Registration is handled through their official registration page. Confirm pricing, distances available, and sign up there.
Run Wild 5K at the North Carolina Zoo
Jun 13, 2026