Wild & Rooted 5K Trail Run

Date: Saturday, November 22, 2025
Bib Pickup: 8:30 AM - 9:45 AM
Mass Start: 10 AM

Be part of history at Mt. Cuba Center’s inaugural Wild & Rooted 5K Trail Run! For the first time ever, runners and walkers are invited to explore the breathtaking natural lands of Mt. Cuba Center on a one-of-a-kind course that winds through meadows and forests, along streams and ponds, and across the same scenic terrain that Mt. Cuba’s conservation team manages to restore and protect native habitats.

This isn’t your typical 5K—it’s a chance to experience the “wild side” of Mt. Cuba in motion. 

 
Race Course

Participants will traverse 5K's of Mt. Cuba’s scenic trails—part of the 1,000-acre property dedicated to ecological restoration, environmental education, and scientific research. Unlike the manicured gardens, these trails showcase a “wilder” aesthetic that reflects the natural beauty and biodiversity of the regional landscape. Featuring sweeping meadows buzzing with pollinators, a restored pond, views of Appalachian Piedmont topography, an abundance of native trees and birdlife, Mt. Cuba’s collaboration with The American Chestnut Foundation and more, this is a truly unique way to support conservation and witness the work you're supporting with your run. 

Note: The course includes variable surfaces such as grass, mulch, gravel, and dirt, with moderate hills and rolling terrain.

Post-Run Celebration

After you cross the finish line, stay to celebrate and connect with nature, community, and conservation:

🌱 Conservation Collective: Learn about Mt. Cuba’s work in land management, reforestation, and meadow restoration, and meet other local conservation partners preserving wildlife habitat in our region in our conservation expo.

🚜 Hay Wagon Rides: Take a 30-minute scenic ride through Mt. Cuba’s hills and fields to see restoration projects up close.

🚶‍♀️ Walking Tours: Join guided tours to explore sections of the course and learn more about Mt. Cuba’s natural lands and stewardship practices.

🎶 Music & Merriment: Enjoy music from a live DJ and delicious food, beer, wine, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages for purchase..

👕 Commemorative T-Shirt: Register by 11/10 to get a free race t-shirt (Only available for race registrants)

🌿 Garden Exploration: Your race registration comes with free general admission to Mt. Cuba Center's gardens and natural lands until 4 PM so you can continue to explore throughout the day after your run.

 
Join Us!

The Wild & Rooted 5K Trail Run is your opportunity to connect with nature, challenge yourself on a beautiful course, and support Mt. Cuba Center’s mission to inspire an appreciation for the beauty and value of native plants and habitats. Want to come enjoy the day but not feeling the run? Grab a Spectator Ticket to cheer on your friends and family, enjoy the gardens all day and participate in the post-race party! The Wild & Rooted 5K is a rain or shine event.