5K races near Timberlake

The Anxious for Nothing 5K Color Run is a 5 km running event in Bedford, Virginia. It takes place at Falling Creek Park on County Farm Road, starting at 10:00 a.m. on an October morning and concluding by noon. The race follows the color-run format, focusing on a short, accessible run where color is incorporated into the experience, rather than a long-distance competition. Registration is available via a flyer QR code or the RunSignup race page. The start at Falling Creek Park provides a clear meeting point for participants in Bedford.

The CASA Superhero 5K and Kids 1 Mile is a family race day on Percival’s Island Trail in Lynchburg, Virginia. It features a timed 5K run, a non-competitive 5K walk, and a one-mile fun run for children. The 5K run is open to ages 8 and older and starts first, followed by the walk a few minutes later. The kids’ race is for ages 12 and under and runs later in the morning. Registration opens in July, and there is no race-day registration. The 5K run and walk are capped at 550 participants combined. The route uses the James River trail. The event incorporates a superhero theme: 5K runners and walkers receive a shirt or cape, swag bag, and finisher medal, while kids get a cape and medal. The 5K awards the top three finishers in each age and gender group. The kids’ mile is untimed and starts in waves about a minute apart. Parents need a security bracelet for kids’ check-in and check-out. Some waves allow a parent to run or walk beside a child. There is also a “Couch Crusader” 0.0-mile option for supporters who want the shirt and swag bag without doing the course.

The SML Turkey Trot takes place Thanksgiving morning at Smith Mountain Lake State Park, featuring a 5K suitable for families and a 1-mile run for children. Organized by LAT Wellness Studio, it is presented as the area's sole turkey trot, welcoming both runners and walkers on its asphalt course. Children are especially invited to participate. The event maintains a lighthearted atmosphere with awards for leading runners and for the most festive turkey family costume. A part of the funds supports the state park, shirts are assured for those who sign up by the October deadline, and awards for runners commence later in the morning.

The Osprey 10K Run / 5K Run-Walk takes place at Smith Mountain Lake State Park, beginning at 9:00 a.m. Participants can choose between a 10K run or a 5K run-walk. This event is organized by Friends of Smith Mountain Lake State Park, Inc., a volunteer 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to supporting the park. The course follows park roadways, allowing participants to race through the Smith Mountain Lake environment instead of urban streets. The event is suitable for all ages and fitness levels. All proceeds benefit park programs, such as environmental stewardship and educational initiatives.