2025 Predator and Prey 5K
Embrace your inner animal at the Predator and Prey 5K, hosted by the Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute! On Saturday, October 4, join hundreds of expected participants as you move for a mission: supporting the Zoo’s animal care and conservation programs.
Whether you sprint like a cheetah or pace yourself like a Przewalski's horse, this race through the Smithsonian's National Zoo is a true test of endurance and animal instinct.
More details coming soon.
Race Details
The Predator and Prey 5K lets you experience the Zoo like never before. Racers will stride past animal habitats along the winding pathways and trails inside the Zoo's campus in Washington, D.C. This course offers amazing views, but expect plenty of hills: the run features over 170 feet of elevation change.
Pricing and Registration (Opening Soon)
- All registered participants must be 18+ to run.
- Zoo members get early access to registration — become a member today!
Your participation in this event directly supports the Zoo's programs to support wildlife and natural ecosystems. Each registration for the event comes with a T-shirt and a race medal.
About the Event
Sign-Ups (Opening Soon)
- Participants must be 18+ to run
- Spots are limited to the first 500 registrations only — don't wait!
- All runners must sign a waiver to participate. Participants must sign their waivers and pick up their race packets before the event.
- Complete your waiver while you pick up your race packet at the Zoo Visitor's Center. Check the Zoo map for details.
Waiver & Packet Pick-Up Options
- Thursday, Oct. 2 | 12 p.m. - 4 p.m.
- Friday, Oct. 3 | 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Parking will be available at the Zoo for an additional cost. Details coming soon.
Zoo Members with available parking benefits can use those benefits to park on the day of the event.
About the Course
The race takes place on Zoo property, a hilly and scenic landscape within Rock Creek Park that includes natural hills and sweeping vistas. You'll start near Kids' Farm, sweeping along the Zoo's outer vehicle road as you ascend the challenging North Road hill. As you continue into the Zoo, you'll stride along along paved and unpaved pathways, experiencing animals as you speed past exhibits like the Asia Trail, Primates, Bird House, and American Trail. One section of the course takes you through Elephant Trails... on a path usually reserved for the animals themselves! You'll finish strong near Lion-Tiger Hill and roar across the finish line.
Entrance: Runners who are driving should enter via our Harvard Street entrance and park in Parking Lot D. Those walking or taking mass transit to the race can enter via Connecticut Avenue. We suggest arriving with enough time to park and reach the starting line.
Schedule
6 - 6:30 a.m. | Arrive onsite. Starting line is at Parking Lot D (lower part of the Zoo). Upon entry, you'll be guided to the starting line by signs and event staff. See Zoo Map.
7 a.m. | Start time
8 a.m. | Race ends. Enjoy a complimentary beer (21+) and explore the Zoo at your own pace.
Rain or Shine: This event will be held no matter what the weather. Registrations are non-refundable and non-transferrable.
Age Minimum: Participants must be 18 years or older with a valid ID to enter the event.
Refunds: Per our terms of sale, all ticket purchases are nonrefundable.
For additional questions, contact the Events team at ZooEvents@si.edu.