Wonderful and Wild

Part of what makes Smith Mountain Lake so wonderful is its natural environment. Much of the acreage surrounding the 500 miles of shoreline is undisturbed green space or protected parks where wildlife and vegetation thrive. Families living or visiting the lake get amazing views of wild animals in their natural habitat, and one of the more fascinating species, that locals love to observe, are ospreys.

Over a decade ago, local parks and recreation authorities built platforms around the lake hoping ospreys migrating north for the summer would build their nests at SML. Well, the plan worked and the ospreys have been part of the summer community ever since.

There will be a third annual running of the Osprey 10K Run/5K Run-Walk at Smith Mountain Lake State Park on Saturday, April 7th. The proceeds from this event will go to the park to support programs and activities and its mission of environmental stewardship and education. The event is a 5K run/walk or a 10K run for participants of all ages and activity levels…and it’s USA Track & Field (USATF) sanctioned. The race highlights the wonderful attributes of the area as participants make their way along the beautiful roadways in the Park.
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If you are interested in participating, click here for more information or to register!

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