53rd Winery 5k & 10k Run
Program Details & Spotlights
Kick off your Labor Day weekend with a scenic 5k or 10k trail run winding through the gorgeous estate of Fifty-Third Winery. This point race is part of the Back of the Pack Series and directly benefits Hooves & Paws Animal Rescue. Run through the rows of grapevines and stay for a celebratory wine flight after crossing the finish line.
For Lake Anna locals and holiday weekend visitors looking to balance their long weekend indulgence with a bit of morning cardio, there is no better tradition than the annual run through Fifty-Third Winery & Vineyard. Tucked away in the rolling, sun-dappled hills of Louisa County—just a short, scenic drive south of the lake—this event transforms the peaceful estate into a vibrant, high-energy course. Before the heavy pontoon traffic hits the water and the midday humidity rolls in, runners and walkers will gather under the cool morning shade to tackle a true Virginia cross-country trail.
This isn't your average, flat asphalt road race. The 5k and 10k courses wind directly through the working estate, guiding you along dirt paths, grassy headlands, and the very rows of grapevines that produce Fifty-Third's award-winning wines. As part of the beloved Back of the Pack Series, the atmosphere is incredibly welcoming. Whether you are a seasoned trail runner aiming for a personal record or a casual walker looking to enjoy a morning stroll with friends, you will find plenty of encouragement at every turn and water station.
Beyond the scenic views and the physical challenge, this race carries a deep community heart. A portion of the proceeds directly benefits Hooves & Paws Animal Rescue, a dedicated local organization rescuing and rehabilitating companion animals and farm rescuees. Knowing your registration fee helps provide shelter and medical care to animals in need makes crossing that finish line feel even more rewarding. And speaking of rewards, once you hand in your timing chip, you can head straight to the tasting pavilion to enjoy a well-deserved, refreshing wine flight included with your registration.
After the race, there is no rush to pack up and leave. The winery's expansive lawns, shaded patios, and welcoming tasting room provide the perfect backdrop to kick off your holiday weekend. Bring a blanket, spread out with your running crew, and toast to a morning well-spent in the heart of Virginia wine country before heading back to the lake for an afternoon on the water.
Why You Should Attend
- Unmatched Scenery: Run through rows of ripening grapes with the early morning mist rising off the Louisa hillsides.
- Post-Race Wine Tasting: Celebrate your finish with a curated flight of estate-grown Virginia wines, included for all participants of age.
- Support a Great Cause: Help raise critical funds for Hooves & Paws Animal Rescue to support local animals in need.
- Superb Swag: Every runner receives a commemorative race shirt, a finisher's medal, and a souvenir wine glass.
Insider Tips
- Wear Trail Shoes: The course is entirely off-road, featuring grass, dirt paths, and uneven vineyard terrain. Leave your slick road-running shoes at home.
- Arrive Early for Parking: Louisa roads are peaceful but narrow. Plan to arrive by 7:15 AM to park, check in, and warm up without feeling rushed.
- Pack a Picnic Blanket: The winery has beautiful lawns. Bring your own camp chairs or picnic blankets to claim a prime post-race spot under the shade trees.
- Plan a Lake Anna Afternoon: Since the race wraps up by 10:00 AM, you'll have the perfect window to head back to the lake, grab lunch at a local marina, and get on the water before the afternoon crowds arrive.
⚓ Local Visitor Navigation Tips & Parking
Race check-in begins early on-site. Participants are highly encouraged to register online in advance. Registration includes a race T-shirt, a custom finisher medal, and a coupon for winery offerings.