Activities

KIDS FISHING DERBY AT WOODY LAKE

The DWR youth-only stocked trout waters program will have them swimming thick and hungry at Recreation Park’s Woody Lake. Pack a lunch, grab your tackle box and fishing rod and see if you can win the trophy for the largest or smallest fish of the day. No registration required. Individuals aged 16 and older are prohibited from assisting with catching a fish, setting the hook, and/or retrieving the fish, as per DWR regulations. The youth-only stocked trout program runs from April 1st to June 15th. We’ll see you at the lake!

YOUTH TRAIL RUNNING HYPERLOCAL WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP RACE

Feel the exhilaration of running through nature! The Hyperlocal Youth Trail Running World Championship comes to Waid Park on May 6th. The unsanctioned, unaffiliated, ultra-5K championship race will test endurance and challenge spirits as competitors' journey across several hills to complete the technical 4-mile world championship course. The fully marked course will be self-supported with beverages and snacks at the finish area. Franklin County Youth Trail runners invite all runners under the age of 18 to participate in this free, hyperlocal international trail running event. Day of registration is free and begins at 5:30 pm. Timing services provided by the Shine Runners of Franklin County. Finisher awards will be issued to all age-specific categories. Donations will be accepted to support the Franklin County Youth Trail Runners. Parents and family members are welcome to run with their participating youth runner.

CROOKED ROAD 24 HOUR ULTRA

The Crooked Road 24 Hour Ultra Marathon, brought to you by Blue Ridge Racing, returns to Waid Park, March 7 - 8, 2026. The CR24 is a challenging and rewarding ultramarathon that tests your endurance to the limit. Returning to Rocky Mount, Virginia, this race takes place on a scenic, mostly fat 1.178-mile loop course comprised of a non-paved cinder track. The path winds through Waid Park, along the Pigg River, and around many of the athletic fields. Solo and team relay categories are available.

WHERE DOES THAT TRAIL GO?

Take some time to get to know Waid Park and, more importantly, know where that trail goes. Waid Park has over 16 miles of trails. This can be intimidating until you learn the lay of the land. Parks & Recreation wants to help you expedite the learning process. Join us as we lead you through the trail system and show of this amazing trail network. In this guided series you’ll have the opportunity to refer to a map at each intersection and discuss navigation and wayfinding. The distance covered will be reflective of the group.

Registration Deadline: Friday, January 30, 2026