Between the Hills Conservancy

08/31/2026

What a dream morning for the 2026 Sweet Run State Park 5k & 10k at Sweet Run State Park!
👟⛰️🌳✨
A massive thank you to every runner, volunteer, Virginia State Parks & Bishop's Events staff, and supporter who joined us on the trails today. The energy was electric, the weather was perfect, and the community spirit was brighter than ever.

We are incredibly proud of everyone who challenged themselves on the course today. Because of your participation and support, we can continue our mission of preserving and protecting our beautiful local landscapes. You didn't just run a race today—you helped support conservation.

A special shout-out to our incredible volunteers and park staff who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make this event safe, fun, and seamless. We couldn't do this without you!

👇🏻 Drop a comment below and tell us your favorite part of today's race!

08/24/2026

September is right around the corner and Sweet Run State Park has so many exciting events planned for the community, including their annual Community Invasive Pull on National Public Lands Day!
🌿💵 This is one of the few FEE FREE DAYS at Virginia State Parks = park for free and head out to join our team of nature superheroes to keep the park beautiful! National Public Lands Day is an ideal time to give back to our parks - and plant pullers of all ages are welcome to join in the celebration! See you out there!

08/23/2026

👟🌳⛰️ ONE WEEK AWAY - NEXT SUNDAY!
If the weather is anything like it was today, the Sweet Run State Park 5k & 10k will be a dream!
Blue Ridge mountain views are calling your name to conquer open meadows, lush forests, and rugged terrain across the race course. Choose your distance (3.1 or 6.2 miles) and get ready for a fantastic morning of good vibes, great energy, and sweet rewards at the finish line + every single mile comes with fresh air and incredible scenery!
👟 Distances: 5K or 10K
📅 Date: Sunday, August 30, 2026
📍 Location: Sweet Run State Park
REGISTER NOW: https://bishopsevents.com/event/2026-sweet-run-5k-10k/
Proceeds benefit the Between the Hills Conservancy, the park’s designated Friends group, supporting stewardship, programming, and community engagement at Sweet Run.

08/19/2026

📌📆 MARK YOUR CALENDARS
for the first Sweet Run State Park Homestead Heritage Day!

Join us in celebrating the skills and traditions that shaped the region while you craft & connect with community! Help us bring the park's agricultural and historical heritage to life this October 24 from 9am-3pm.

See the event information on Eventbrite here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/homestead-heritage-day-tickets-1995464906251 and please share this flyer 👇

08/12/2026

Weekend plans? Head to Sweet Run State Park for our monthly volunteer workday on Saturday from 9:30-11:30am and check out this month’s interpretive theme while you’re there!

Summer heat can be challenging for both people and wildlife. This month, discover the creative ways humans and animals have adapted to survive the hottest days of the year. ☀️

📅 August 15 & 16
🕘 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
📍 Interpretive Center

Explore how early residents relied on cool springhouses and flowing creeks to preserve food and escape the heat, while wildlife seeks refuge in shaded forests, underground burrows, and cool waters.

ℹ️ https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/event?id=2026-07-20-14-49-11-491366-36b

08/12/2026

What a stellar evening we enjoyed at Sweet Run State Park on Saturday for August Earth & Sky Adventures ! From a twilight hike that featured dancing fog and fireflies to the first Perseid meteors and a perfectly mild August evening, park visitors were left star-struck! Rangers transformed the interpretive barn with twinkle lights to illuminate visitor discoveries that ranged from fireflies to fungi!
📌 If you missed this month, mark your calendar now for the next one on September 5: September Earth & Sky Adventures at Sweet Run State Park ✨🪐

08/06/2026

💫 We are ready for a stellar Saturday at Sweet Run State Park!

Earth & Sky Adventures at Sweet Run State Parkk offers a unique opportunity to visit the park after dark and August is a particular special time to do so with the last fireflies & the first Perseids!

The evening begins by experiencing the sights and sounds of the park at sunset with a leisurely guided hike beginning at 8 p.m. from the main parking lot. The Interpretive Center will be open from 8 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., rain or shine, featuring hands-on astronomy and nocturnal-themed activities and displays.

At 9:30 p.m., members of the Northern Virginia Astronomy Club (NOVAC) will guide visitors through the night sky, offering telescopic views of planets, galaxies, nebulae, and other celestial wonders. Bring a blanket or chair, grab a flashlight, and prepare to be star struck! ⭐️

Join for any or all parts of this family-friendly evening.
Check the park website for weather related updates to the hike or stargazing portions of the program.