Pawpaw 10 Miler and 5 Miler at Powhatan State Park

At Virginia State Parks, there’s an equal invitation to seek relaxation and leave worries behind or to seek adventure and leave a trail of sweat behind. Opportunities for tranquil rest, thrilling challenges and everything in between can be found within our state parks. If you are up for a fun, challenging adventure, look no further than the Virginia State Parks Adventure Series.  

This one-of-a-kind race series, presented by Dominion Energy, features a wide range of competitive events held in Virginia State Parks. With options that include adventure races, running events, mountain bike races, cyclocross races, adventure triathlons, sprint triathlons, a gravel time trial and an old-school mountain bike enduro race, there’s something for all athletes and adventurers.  

Adding to the excitement is the opportunity to win great prizes in one of two ways: amassing points in the Competition Category or participating in the Achievement Category. Learn more by reading the guidelines and rules on our Adventure Series page. 

As an avid hobby runner, I was enticed by three running-only events that take place in Central Virginia’s pleasant fall temperatures. With various lengths and types of trails, these races offer diversity that runners of all skill levels can enjoy. From a flat 5K to a rugged half marathon, they have one thing in common: the beautiful scenery that Virginia State Parks are known for.  

Pawpaw 10 Miler and 5 Miler at Powhatan State Park 

Runners preparing for the Pawpaw 10 Miler and 5 Miler

Powhatan State Park’s trails run through forests and grassy fields with glimpses of the James River, making it a great park for trail running. This event, directed by Virginia Adventures, is a benefit race for the Friends of Powhatan State Park and provides nice swag, great prizes, and a laid-back community atmosphere.  

Newly added this year was the 5-mile option, which I participated in. Both the 10-mile and 5-mile routes started and finished at the Equestrian Trailhead Parking Lot with restrooms and ample parking. Even after a rainy week, the trails were fairly dry and ready for a pack of enthusiastic runners enjoying a sunny September morning. A bonus to this event is that post-race recovery can include the park’s fun annual Pawpaw Festival with exhibits, activities, pawpaw tastings and more! 

High Bridge Trail Half Marathon and 5K at High Bridge Trail State Park 

Early-morning sunlight on the High Bridge Trail

Charming Downtown Farmville is the start and finish line of this ‘rails to trails’ out-and-back race, sponsored by Riverside Runners and Friends of High Bridge Trail State Park. Covering a portion of the High Bridge Trail, runners enjoy a wide, semi-shaded trail of well-packed, crushed limestone with very little grade.  

With trailside encouragement from community spirit groups, well-stocked aid stations, great finisher items and an award ceremony, this is an event the whole family can enjoy. In fact, children of all ages participated, quite successfully, in the 5K. I may have placed first in my age division but was outpaced by several young kids!  

Division winners of the High Bridge Trail 5K

Stretching a bit further, the half marathon route includes two trips across the historic High Bridge with sweeping views of the Appomattox River. I agree with Park Manager Dan Jordan as he encourages 5K participants not to miss marveling at the majestic bridge, which can be accessed by driving to the Camp Paradise parking lot after the race.  

Pocahontas Trail Festival Half Marathon and 10K at Pocahontas State Park 

Runners preparing for the Pocahontas Trail Fest Half Marathon and 10K 

The following day, I concluded my trilogy of fall Adventure Series races with a 10K at Pocahontas State Park. I quickly discovered I was not the only person to participate in these three races. Like many sports, the running community is a tight-knit group and the Adventure Series amplifies this aspect even more. It’s always encouraging and motivating to meet fellow adventurers and Virginia State Park lovers.  

This sprawling park with more than 90 miles of trails offers an adventurous setting for any race. I knew the 10K would be challenging enough and was quite relieved upon crossing the finish line that I had not opted for the half marathon distance. Organized by Run Ride Race, both races started together at the field by the boat launch and traveled the same 6.2-mile loop.  

After crossing back over the start/finish line, the half marathon participants continued on, passing over the lake and completing an additional loop. Winding through picturesque forests, these trails provided a fun challenge of elevation gain and loss and obstacles of roots and rocks to navigate. Despite the crisp fall air, this race certainly induced sweat, as well as feelings of accomplishment and the desire to conquer more Adventure Series events.  

Plan your adventure and get ready to hit the ground running… biking or paddling! 

Find the upcoming list of events on our Adventures Series page. Make plans to experience your favorite state parks in a new, exciting way! 

Whether it’s running, paddling, biking or a combination, the Virginia State Parks Adventure Series appeals to adventurers of all types, skill-levels and ages.