Virginia State Parks Adventure Series returns for 9th year
A moment from a New River Trail Challenge.
Virginia State Parks’ one-of-a-kind multi-sport race series kicks off on Feb. 15. This year’s Adventure Series, presented by Dominion Energy, consists of 23 races, including triathlons, mountain biking races, adventure races and more. The competitions will be held at 11 different parks across the state.
Long-time Adventure Series participants will notice some changes this year: the return of bonus races, two new Summer Sizzle races with Board Run Off Road and five weekends with Saturday and Sunday races in the same park.
For newcomers, Adventure Series races are designed to be fun and welcoming, making them a good way to experience a first race without the pressure of a highly competitive environment. In addition, Virginia State Parks invites families to join the Adventure Series, which features a variety of races designed for all ages and skill levels.
Family-friendly races include the Frozen Foot Adventure Race, Tour de Pocahontas, Middle Mountain Momma, Summer Sizzle, Night Train Ultra Marathon, PocaGo! and the High Bridge 5K and 1/2 Marathon.
Adventure Series participants win prizes by earning points in the competition category or the achievement category. These prizes include Virginia State Parks gift cards, cash and REI gift cards.
“The Virginia State Parks Adventure Series is an incredible way to highlight the exciting outdoor challenges our parks offer,” said Promotions Manager Steve Boyd. “From 5Ks and trail runs to adventure races and triathlons, this series truly has something for every level of athlete. Come join us for a race weekend you’ll never forget and discover the beauty and adventure waiting in Virginia’s state parks!”
To learn more about the categories and prizes or to register for one of the 23 races below, go to www.virginiastateparks.gov/adventure-series.
Adventure:
• March 14: Frozen Foot Adventure Race at Pocahontas State Park;
• June 13: Summer Sizzle Adventure Race at Lake Anna State Park;
• June 14: Summer Sizzle Adventure Race at Lake Anna State Park;
• July 11: Seven Bends Adventure Race at Seven Bends State Park;
• Aug. 22: Shenandoah River State Park Adventure Race at Shenandoah River State Park.
Bike:
• Feb. 15: Monster Cross at Pocahontas State Park;
• March 21: Tour de Pocahontas at Pocahontas State Park;
• March 22: Tour de Pocahontas at Pocahontas State Park;
• May 2: The Highlands Hop at Douthat State Park;
• May 3: Middle Mountain Momma at Douthat State Park;
• May 9: Shenanduro at Shenandoah River State Park;
• Aug. 2: Guts Gravel Glory at Pocahontas State Park;
• Oct. 3: Poca GO at Pocahontas State Park.
Running:
• March 21: Dogwood Ultra Marathon at Twin Lakes State Park;
• April 11: James River Trail Runs at James River State Park;
• June 20: Night Train Ultra Marathon at High Bridge Trail State Park;
• June 28: High Bridge Time Trial at Hight Bridge Trail State Park;
• Sept. 19: Pawpaw 10 Mile and 5 Mile at Powhatan State Park;
• Oct. 3: High Bridge Half Marathon and 5k at High Bridge Trail State Park;
• Oct. 4: Pocahontas Trailfest at Pocahontas State Park.
Duathlon:
• July 12: Seven Bends Aquablaze at Seven Bends State Park.
Triathlon:
• May 2: Smith Mountain Lake Triathlon at Smith Mountain Lake State Park;
• Sept. 19: New River Trail Challenge at New River Trail State Park.
For more information about Virginia State Parks or to find a race at a park near you, go to www.virginiastateparks.gov/find-a-park.
