The Osprey Race is an event suitable for participants of all ages and activity levels, offering a well-marked, professionally timed race in one of Virginia’s most scenic state parks. The event is sponsored by Friends of Smith Mountain Lake State Park, Inc. , a volunteer 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to promoting the use, enjoyment, and appreciation of the park. Proceeds from the race support park improvements, environmental education, wildlife-focused events, and meaningful community outreach throughout the year. Chip timing by Run Roanoke provides accurate results, with live results available immediately after finishing. Runners will enjoy post-race refreshments, including recovery drinks, fruit, and energy bars. Top overall and age group finishers for men and women will receive custom awards crafted by local artists, and all participants receive a high-quality moisture-wicking performance shirt as a memento of their accomplishment. Register by Friday, April 2, to guarantee a race shirt. We look forward to seeing you on April 25! Osprey 5K Saturday, April 25 | 9:00-10:30 am Smith Mountain Lake State Park Distance: 3.12 miles (GPS-measured) Total Elevation Gain: 217 feet Average Gain: ~70 feet per mile The Osprey 5K is a scenic run or walk that’s approachable for a wide range of participants while still delivering a solid workout. The race starts at the Beach Pavilion, with the beach and pavilion on runners’ right. The course heads up and around the main beach parking lot and continues onto State Park Road, climbing steadily past the boat ramp parking area. This opening section features a moderate, sustained uphill. At approximately 1.2 miles, runners turn right onto Interpretive Trail. A water stop is located at the 1.5-mile mark, which serves as the 5K turnaround. From there, runners retrace the route back along Interpretive Trail, turn left onto State Park Road, and enjoy a smooth, moderate downhill. The final section loops around the main beach parking lot an
5K: T-Shirt
10K: T-Shirt
| Distance | Price | Opens | Closes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5K | $30.00 | May 6 | Feb 28 |
| $35.00 | Mar 1 | Mar 31 | |
| $40.00 | Apr 1 | Apr 24 | |
| 10K | $45.00 | May 6 | Feb 28 |
| $50.00 | Mar 1 | Mar 31 | |
| $55.00 | Apr 1 | Apr 24 |
| Year | Finishers | Median Time | Fastest Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 43 | 1:07:36 | 43:25 |
| 2025 | 29 | 1:03:40 | 44:12 |
| Year | Finishers | Median Time | Fastest Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 64 | 42:40 | 25:43 |
| 2025 | 58 | 43:13 | 25:03 |
Interested in this race?