Oasis ZooRun Toronto 2026: Race Through the Zoo for Conservation

On September 12, 2026, you'll run surrounded by wildlife. The Oasis ZooRun celebrates its 24th edition at the Toronto Zoo, with free zoo admission included in your registration. The course has a lot of hills and the finish line approach is uphill, so come prepared.

Oasis ZooRun Toronto by the numbers

You can choose from 10K, 5K, and CubRun (distances for kids aged 2-10). Registration fees range from 50-80 CAD depending on distance. The 10K starts at 8:00 am, 5K at 10:45 am. The race takes place at the Toronto Zoo in Scarborough, Canada's largest zoo spanning 287 hectares. The fundraising goal is $110,000 to support the Blanding's Turtle Headstart Program. In-person races are sold out, but the virtual option remains available.

Course breakdown

The 10K race

The 10K starts outside the zoo, then completes a lap inside the grounds. Southbound lanes on Meadowvale Rd close from 7:30-9:30 am for the 10K race. The route passes through Old Finch Ave, Zoo Rd, Eurasia Wilds, African Savanna, and Canadian Domain. The 10K finish line is located near the Savanna picnic area.

The first kilometers on roads surrounding the zoo let you find your rhythm before entering the grounds. The course winds around back access roads and up and down the twisting, hilly paths of the zoo. The race offers unique courses passing through zoo exhibits like Eurasia Wilds and African Savanna.

The 5K race

The 5K lets you spend your entire time within the zoo enclosure. The race begins near the main zoo entrance on the Zoomobile path. You run entirely on zoo pathways and roads, with animals visible throughout the course.

Terrain characteristics

All distances travel along paved paths and roads within the zoo boundaries and are closed to vehicles. The route is quite twisty and includes some narrow sections. There are some sections of gravel on the route. Both routes go over a wooden bridge which can be slippery when wet.

There isn't much flat after the first couple of kilometers – expect continuous ups and downs. Prepare for near constant views of the park's wildlife, but be ready for a number of hills.

What weather to expect

Typical mid-September conditions in Toronto are ideal for running. Temperatures generally range between 15°C in the morning and 23°C by mid-morning. Rain probability sits around 31%, with average precipitation of 1.5 mm. Wind typically blows at 15-16 km/h.

Expect a cool morning at the 8:00 am start for the 10K. Dress in light layers you can shed. For the 5K starting at 10:45 am, it'll be warmer. With the course's hills, you'll work up a sweat even in pleasant temperatures.

Race strategy and tips

Managing the hills

Do your hill training before this race. The constant ups and downs stress your quads and calves differently than flat terrain. Don't go too hard on the early descents – you'll pay for it on subsequent climbs. The approach to the finish line is up a hill – save some energy for this demanding finale.

Arrive early

10K participants must arrive before 7:00 am to avoid missing the start. If you arrive at the Zoo after 10:00 am you will miss the 5K race. If you're picking up your packet on race day, get there early because it can be a long line.

Watch for technical sections

The wooden bridge can be slippery when wet – ease off slightly through this zone. The route is twisty with narrow sections, so stay alert for other runners in tight turns.

Hydration and fueling

There's only a single hydration station for the 5K race. If you're expecting 30-40 minutes or more, consider carrying your own water. The hills increase your hydration needs compared to a flat course of equal distance.

What makes this race special

You literally run through a zoo. You follow a looped course on zoo roadways and pathways past a number of different animals. Giraffes, elephants, lions – they watch you as much as you watch them. All participants receive a souvenir shirt and finisher medal with this year's featured animal, Blanding's turtles.

Every dollar raised directly supports your Toronto Zoo's Blanding's Turtle Headstart Program and the new home of the program located within the Community Conservation Centre. This dedicated space will serve as the hub for incubation and care, while also giving guests the opportunity to see hatchlings. You're not just running for yourself – you're contributing to protecting an endangered species.

Free admission to the Zoo is included with registration, so you can stay all day after your race to visit your favorite animals. Parking is also complimentary for participants on race day.

Getting encouragement during the Oasis ZooRun with Cobbr

With Cobbr, your friends and family can record voice messages for you that automatically play at the kilometer they choose during your race. At kilometer 7 of the 10K, when you're tackling another climb after several hills already in your legs, hearing your partner's or kids' voices can make all the difference. At kilometer 4 of the 5K, when it's starting to hurt, that voice message from your running buddy reminds you why you're here. The vocal encouragement hits exactly when you need it most.

Oasis ZooRun Toronto FAQ

What distances are offered?

10K, 5K, and CubRun (400m for ages 2-5, 800m for ages 6-10).

Is the course difficult for a first 5K or 10K?

This course has a lot of hills and the approach to the finish line is up a hill. It's not the best choice for a first-ever race. If you've trained on hilly terrain, it's doable but challenging.

Are there time limits?

All 5K participants must start the race by 11:00 am. The organization uses the zoo during normal operating hours, so timing matters.

What's the weather like in mid-September in Toronto?

Typical conditions show 15-23°C with about 30% chance of rain. Pleasant running temperatures, but plan light layers for the early morning start.

Can I come to cheer for a runner?

Zoo admission is 50% off for all guests attending the in-person run as a spectator. You can position yourself at different spots along the course inside the zoo.

What's included with registration?

A souvenir shirt and finisher medal featuring Blanding's turtles, free zoo admission, and complimentary parking on race day.

A race that combines physical effort, exotic animals, and environmental conservation. The 24th edition promises the same unique blend of athletic challenge and wildlife discovery. Train on hills, arrive early, and enjoy your day at the zoo after the effort.