Since 1974, Lynchburg has hosted the Virginia 10 Miler race, bringing in thousands of runners to the Hill City each year. The race brings in about 4,000 casual and competitive runners and walkers each year across the United States and several countries. Legends like Frank Shorter, Rod Dixon, Anne Audain, Joan Benoit Samuelson, Bill Rogers, Jeff Galloway, Jon Sinclair, Grete Waitz, Lasse Viren, Jacqueline Gareau, Nick Rose, Marty Liquori, and more have competed in this historic road race.
The start of the very first Virginia 10 Miler race in 1974 – Photo taken from Lynchburg News & Advance
Though the race has attracted many accomplished runners, the Virginia 10 Miler is not your average race, it’s a party! Live musicians, DJs, and neighborhood parties are set up throughout the course to cheer competitors on throughout the race, and once everyone crosses the finish line, competitors are invited to stick around to celebrate and decompress. The scenic course, begins at EC Glass High School, taking runners through Langhorne Road up to Historic Rivermont Avenue, passing Randolph College, and circling through Riverside Park overlooking the James River. Learn more about the Race or register HERE
If you are looking for a shorter race, or running isn’t really your stride, there are also shorter courses available, including a 4-mile walk, and the Amazing Mile Kids Run hosted by Amazement Square children’s museum, so bring the whole family! The Amazing Mile Children’s Run, hosted by Amazement Square takes place along Jefferson Street in Downtown Lynchburg on the Friday before the race. Before the children run, families can stop by the Family Festival at Amazement Square, which will be Olympics-themed this year. Here are more things you will find along Jefferson Street.
Energize with our LYH Dining Options
Give your body plenty of fuel for the race by checking out our dining options.
- Pasta lovers can load up on whole-wheat spaghetti or gluten-free corn pasta from Isabella’s Italian Trattoria, or enjoy a blackened salmon quinoa bowl for a good mix of protein and veggies.
- Millie’s Living Cafe serves organic and sustainably grown ingredients with a menu that focuses on vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Their menu features fresh juices, smoothie bowls, and specialty items like jackfruit sliders and chickpea curry flatbreads. Located right next to Mille’s Living Cafe is Health Nut Nutrition, where you can stock up on granola and healthy snacks.
Searching for more yummy options? Check out our other dining options.
Millie’s Living Cafe – 1701 Enterprise Dr.
Warm-Up
- If you’re looking for a short run or warm-up before the race, the Blackwater Creek Trail system has several paved and earthen paths to help you get a feel for the land. If you are looking for steeper climbs, Liberty Mountain Trail System offers over 50 miles of earthen paths for running, walking, and hiking.
- The Central Virginia YMCA locations offer guest access for any YMCA cardholder. Participants can enjoy a yoga session, jacuzzi soak, or sauna visit for muscle relief.
Stock-Up
Forgot your running shoes? Riverside Runners has you covered for all of your running essentials like name-brand running shoes, socks, running accessories, and supplements.
Riverside Runners – 2480 Rivermont Ave.
Celebrate your Run!
After the race, you deserve to celebrate, LYH style! After crossing the finish line, all race participants can gather at E.C. Glass High School for complimentary food and beverages, music, and massages. Bring your family to enjoy the variety of post-race activities and awards ceremonies.=
Continue the party right down the road at the Cavalier Store or Rivermont Pizza where you can grab a bite and a well-deserved brew. Or visit one of our breweries like Starr Hill on Main or Three Roads Brewing where you can sip on a locally inspired brew like the Main Street IPA.
Three Roads Brewing – 1300 Court St.
Sleep In
After a long day on your feet, you’ll want to make sure you can dive into a comfortable bed afterward. The Bella Vista Hotel is the host hotel this year for the race, however, LYH has several hotel, bed & breakfast, and Air BnB options; check out more accommodations here.
Bella Vista Hotel & Suites – 2900 Candlers Mountain Rd.
Explore LYH
Make a whole weekend out of your trip to LYH, there is plenty to see and do while you are here for the Virginia 10 Miler.
- Lynchburg has it all: a historic downtown, delicious restaurants, museums and galleries, outdoor adventures. Check out the 25 Family-Friendly Activities in LYH or What You’ll Find in Downtown LYH itineraries to plan your next trip and discover why visitors love LYH.
- Bike along a downtown river, hike to a waterfall, and go skiing — all year long! — in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains here is our guide to outdoor activities in LYH
- History buffs unite! Here are the Must-See Historic Sites in LYH.
Downtown LYH
Enjoy your time in LYH and tag us on social media so we can cheer you on from the sidelines @lynchburgva