run with the bears weekend is your call to adventure. will you answer it?
This fitness-focused weekend is headlined by the return of Run with the Bears: a challenging footrace across rolling mountain terrain with sweeping views of the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains. Featuring a 5K, 10K, and 1-mile Fun Run, this scenic trek will test your spirit and leave you breathless in more ways than one.
thursday, may 15th
Lakeside Yoga
Time: 8:30AM-9:30AM
Location: The Point
Awaken your body and mind with our Lakeside Yoga class set against the serene backdrop of Bear Creek Lake.
Bingo
Time: 4PM-5PM
Location: The Taproom
Join us for a fun game of bingo at the Lake Club! Winners receive small prizes, such as s’mores kits, free guided hikes, BLR merchandise, and more.
Sunset Cruise
Time: 7PM-8PM
Location: Marina
Join us for a scenic evening pontoon tour of Bear Creek Lake! We’ll provide water, a blanket, and a complimentary beverage as our Marina staff shares fun facts and history about our community.
S’mores Bar at the Summit
Time: 7PM-8PM
Location: The Summit
Gather around the campfire and craft your own custom treat at our s’mores bar, featuring a variety of cookies, marshmallows, and candy combos.
friday, may 16th
Plein Air Adventure Hike
Time: 11AM-12:30PM
Location: High Point Road
Kick off Run with the Bears Weekend with a peaceful Friday morning Plein Air Hike: a scenic, one-mile trek followed by outdoor painting in the fresh, mountain air.
Happier Hour – Botanical Cocktail Specials
Time: 5:30PM
Location: The Taproom
Sip, socialize, and unwind with refreshing botanical-inspired cocktails and great company.
Happy Camper Hour
Time: 5:30PM-6:30PM
Location: Lake Club – Lower Level
While adults unwind upstairs, kids can enjoy games, activities, snacks, and drinks at this fun-filled hangout.
Pasta Dinner Special
Time: 7PM-8PM
Location: Lake Club
Fuel up for race day with a hearty pasta dinner at the Lake Club, crafted to give you the perfect pre-run boost with plenty of carbs and bold flavors.
saturday, may 17th
Pre-Race Flow: Yoga and Stretching
Time: 8AM-9AM
Location: Wedding Lawn
Start your race day with intention, breath, and movement.
Run with the Bears 5K/10k/Fun Run
Time: 9AM-12PM
Location: Meet at the Summit
Lace up for our annual Run with the Bears, featuring panoramic mountain views from the starting line at the Summit.
Choose from a 10K, 5K, or 1-Mile Fun Run along scenic, nature-filled trails.
Fuel up before or recharge after your run with delicious bites from the Food Truck, open from 8AM to 2PM!
Trailblazer Balm – Bear Creek Park Discovery Day
Time: 2PM-3:30PM
Location: Bear Creek Park
After the race, unwind at Bear Creek Park with a hands-on workshop. We’ll teach you how to create your own soothing balm using lavender, chamomile, and beeswax.
Run with the Bears Awards Dinner
Time: 5PM-8PM
Location: Lake Club
After a day on the trails, join us for our Run with the Bears Awards Dinner: an elegant evening of great food, celebration, and recognition of our top finishers.
Menu and pricing details coming soon!
S’mores on the Beach
Time: 7PM-8PM
Location: The Beach
Gather around the campfire for a twist on the traditional s’mores experience!
Stargazing Social
Time: 10PM-11PM
Location: The Lake Club Deck
Relax on the Lake Club deck with hot chocolate and local teas as you explore the night sky through our telescope. Connect with friends, fellow runners, and the natural beauty of Bear Lake Reserve.
sunday, may 18th
Morning Mindfulness Meditation Walk
Time: 10AM-11AM
Location: Bear Creek Park
Ease into Sunday with a peaceful guided walk through Bear Creek Park, blending gentle movement, mindfulness, and forest bathing for post-race reflection and relaxation.
Paddleboard Yoga
Time: 12PM-1PM
Location: The Marina
Glide across the lake to a peaceful cove and enjoy a beginner-friendly paddleboard yoga session. Led by our expert staff, this unique experience blends gentle vinyasa flow with the calming beauty of nature. Perfect for all skill levels!
Sunset Cruise
Time: 7PM-8PM
Location: Marina
Join us for a scenic evening pontoon tour of Bear Creek Lake! We’ll provide water, a blanket, and a complimentary beverage as our Marina staff shares fun facts and history about our community.
Breathtaking views. challenging trails.
run with the bears
Date and Time: Saturday, May 17, 2025
Time: 10AM to 12PM
Join us at The Summit for a race that’s as refreshing as the mountain air. Choose from a 10K, 5K, or 1-Mile Fun Run depending on your fitness level, and push the pace for your chance to win prizes.
Starting at the highest point on property, this experience blends a challenging run with the breathtaking beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Featuring sweeping views, serene trails, and family-friendly fun, it’s the perfect way to get moving and make unforgettable memories.
Fuel up before or recharge after your run with delicious bites from the Food Truck, open from 8AM to 2PM!
event schedule
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Race Day Registration: 9:00 a.m. to 9:50 a.m.
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10K Start: 10:00 a.m.
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5K Start: 10:10 a.m.
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1-Mile Fun Run Start: 10:15 a.m.
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Meeting Location: The Summit
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Questions: Email activities@bearlakereserve.com
Prizes and accolades
become our champion of the mountain
10K Winners
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First Place: Trophy, two-night stay, boat rental, golf for two, $150 gift card
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Second Place: Trophy, boat rental, $50 gift card
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Third Place: Trophy, $50 gift card
5K Winners
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First Place: Trophy, round of golf for four, boat rental, $100 gift card
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Second Place: Trophy, $100 gift card
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Third Place: Trophy, $50 gift card
1-Mile Fun Run Winners
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First Place: Free Kids’ Camp session, stuffed bear with medal
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Second Place: Half-off camp session, stuffed bear with medal
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Third Place: Stuffed bear with medal
Ready, Set, Go!
ready to run with the bears?
Spots fill up fast, and trust us: you’ll want to be there at the start line when the mountains come alive with cheers and spring sunshine.
savings for the big race.
Book your stay for Run With The Bears and receive:
- 10% off your vacation rental
- A $100 BLR gift card
- 25% off activities/marina
dining at bear lake reserve.
Our menus features a variety of tantalizing appetizers, savory entrees, and decadent desserts for all tastes and preferences. Our beverage menu also features a hand-picked selection of fine wines, thoughtfully crafted cocktails, and a wide selection of local and imported beers.
Make reservations at the Lake Club during your stay at Bear Lake Reserve and treat yourself to a taste of the mountains.