Virginia Outdoor Adventures: Hiking, Camping, Kayaking, Local Travel and more!

Virginia Outdoor Adventures Podcast
  • 4.9 (102)
  • Places & Travel
  • Updated Biweekly

From the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Chesapeake Bay, Virginia is a mecca for outdoor travel and adventure. Virginia Outdoor Adventures Podcast is your local guide to hiking, camping, kayaking, travel and so much more. Get the information and the inspiration to plan your own adventure, right here in Virginia. Lets Go!

  1. Sep 29

    Virginia’s Adventure Towns: Harrisonburg – Friendly by Nature with Vince Mier, Walkabout Outfitter (Ep 91, Part 2)

    What makes a great adventure town? Is it the mountains and trails that surround it? The endless opportunities to get outside? Or is it what you find when you come back from the adventure - a great meal, a local brewery, a little live music, and a community that makes you feel right at home? Welcome to Harrisonburg, the latest stop in Virginia’s Adventure Towns. Known as the Friendly City, Harrisonburg is an Appalachian Trail town and an incredible basecamp for exploring the Shenandoah Valley and beyond, with hiking, mountain biking, climbing, paddling, fishing, and more all within reach. But to really understand Harrisonburg, you need someone who lives the adventure. Vince Mier, District Manager for Walkabout Outfitter and an Appalachian Trail thru-hiker, has spent plenty of time chasing adventures on the trail, but he also knows what makes Harrisonburg special when the backpack comes off - a walkable downtown area, home to Virginia’s first Culinary District and a vibrant Arts & Cultural District. We’re heading into the mountains, exploring the city, and discovering what makes Harrisonburg Friendly by Nature. Let’s Go! This episode is made possible with support from a grant provided by Virginia Is For Lovers. This is Part 2 of a two-part episode. Follow VAOA Podcast: Instagram I Facebook I Newsletter Sign Up Support the Show! Buy Me A Coffee Shop the Virginia Outdoor Adventures Merch Store! VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by: Virginia Association for Parks Breaks Interstate Park Virginia State Parks Heart of Appalachia  Ads: Walkabout Outfitter Support the Show! Buy Me A Coffee Mentioned in this Episode: Visit Harrisonburg Harrisonburg Hikes Harrisonburg Outdoor Adventures Downtown Harrisonburg Walkabout Outfitter Episode 83. Massanutten: Your Backyard Mountain Resort for Mountain Biking, Trails, and Shenandoah Valley Adventures Episode 21. Mountain Biking with Thomas Jenkins, Co-Owner of Shenandoah Bicycle Company Climbing, Caving, and more with Lester Zook, WildGUYde Adventures Harrisonburg Lodging Music Credit: Emily Woodhull, Singer/Songwriter - Instagram I Facebook I TikTok: @emwoodhullmusic Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

    Virginia’s Adventure Towns: Harrisonburg – Friendly by Nature with Vince Mier, Walkabout Outfitter (Ep 91, Part 2)

  2. Sep 22

    Virginia’s Adventure Towns: Harrisonburg – Friendly by Nature with Vince Mier, Walkabout Outfitter (Ep 91, Part 1)

    What makes a great adventure town? Is it the mountains and trails that surround it? The endless opportunities to get outside? Or is it what you find when you come back from the adventure - a great meal, a local brewery, a little live music, and a community that makes you feel right at home? Welcome to Harrisonburg, the latest stop in Virginia’s Adventure Towns. Known as the Friendly City, Harrisonburg is an Appalachian Trail town and an incredible basecamp for exploring the Shenandoah Valley and beyond, with hiking, mountain biking, climbing, paddling, fishing, and more all within reach. But to really understand Harrisonburg, you need someone who lives the adventure. Vince Mier, District Manager for Walkabout Outfitter and an Appalachian Trail thru-hiker, has spent plenty of time chasing adventures on the trail, but he also knows what makes Harrisonburg special when the backpack comes off - a walkable downtown area, home to Virginia’s first Culinary District and a vibrant Arts & Cultural District. We’re heading into the mountains, exploring the city, and discovering what makes Harrisonburg Friendly by Nature. Let’s Go! This episode is made possible with support from a grant provided by Virginia Is For Lovers. Follow VAOA Podcast: Instagram I Facebook I Newsletter Sign Up Support the Show! Buy Me A Coffee Shop the Virginia Outdoor Adventures Merch Store! VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by: Virginia Association for Parks Breaks Interstate Park Virginia State Parks Heart of Appalachia  Ads: Walkabout Outfitter Support the Show! Buy Me A Coffee Mentioned in this Episode: Visit Harrisonburg Harrisonburg Hikes Harrisonburg Outdoor Adventures Downtown Harrisonburg Walkabout Outfitter Episode 83. Massanutten: Your Backyard Mountain Resort for Mountain Biking, Trails, and Shenandoah Valley Adventures Episode 21. Mountain Biking with Thomas Jenkins, Co-Owner of Shenandoah Bicycle Company Climbing, Caving, and more with Lester Zook, WildGUYde Adventures Harrisonburg Lodging Music Credit: Emily Woodhull, Singer/Songwriter - Instagram I Facebook I TikTok: @emwoodhullmusic Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

    Virginia’s Adventure Towns: Harrisonburg – Friendly by Nature with Vince Mier, Walkabout Outfitter (Ep 91, Part 1)

  3. Sep 15

    Summer Hiking & Travel Adventures: Shenandoah National Park, British Columbia, Mount Rainier, & Mexico City (Ep 90, Pt 5)

    What do you get when you pack a season with mountain hikes, national park trails, sunset paddles, waterfall rappelling, and a little international travel? A pretty epic summer. In this episode, we’re going on a North American extravaganza - from the snow-capped Rockies of British Columbia to the trails around Mount Rainier, and into the mountains surrounding Mexico City. Back in Virginia, there are sunset paddles in regional and state parks, a road trip to a National Wildlife Refuge, conquering the cascades of White Oak Canyon, a weekend escape in Shenandoah National Park, and a sneak peek visit to the first Virginia’s Adventure Towns episode of the new season. But this isn’t just a recap of places I’ve visited. Along the way, I’ll share the trails, parks, paddling spots, wildlife destinations, and practical details that can help you turn some of these ideas into adventures of your own. So if you’re looking for inspiration for your next trip, or just want to discover somewhere new, there’s a lot to cover. Let’s Go! This is Part 5 of a multi-part episode. Follow VAOA Podcast: Instagram I Facebook I Newsletter Sign Up Support the Show! Buy Me A Coffee Shop the Virginia Outdoor Adventures Merch Store! LISTENER SURVEY - Enter to win a $50 gift card from River Rock Outfitter  VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by: Virginia Association for Parks Breaks Interstate Park Virginia State Parks Heart of Appalachia  Ads: Iris Inn and Cabins Afton Mountain Vineyards Breaks Park Heart of Appalachia  LISTENER SURVEY - Enter to win a $50 gift card from River Rock Outfitter   Mentioned in this Episode: Book: Ghost Girl, A Blue Ridge Mountain Story Virginia’s Venomous and Nonvenomous Snakes: Hiking Safety, Myths, and Appreciation with Caroline Seitz, Virginia Herpetological Society (Episode 62) Mushroom Foraging in Virginia: Wild Edibles, Seasonal Finds, and Foraging Tips with Gabrielle Cerberville, aka the Chaotic Forager (Episode 80) Good Fire with Sam Lopez, Wildlife Area Manager, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (Episode 25) Guide Book: Day Hike Washington Mount Rainer Bird Guide, Pamela, Birding is Punk Bird Guide, Miguel, Birdnomad NovaParks Roving Naturalist programs with Matt Felperin Wandering Waters Paddle Quest at Virginia State Parks Canyoneering with Andy Nichols, Shenandoah Mountain Guides  Mountain Biking in Harrisonburg (Episode 21) Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

    Summer Hiking & Travel Adventures: Shenandoah National Park, British Columbia, Mount Rainier, & Mexico City (Ep 90, Pt 5)

  4. Sep 8

    Summer Hiking & Travel Adventures: Shenandoah National Park, British Columbia, Mount Rainier, & Mexico City (Ep 90, Pt 4)

    What do you get when you pack a season with mountain hikes, national park trails, sunset paddles, waterfall rappelling, and a little international travel? A pretty epic summer. In this episode, we’re going on a North American extravaganza - from the snow-capped Rockies of British Columbia to the trails around Mount Rainier, and into the mountains surrounding Mexico City. Back in Virginia, there are sunset paddles in regional and state parks, a road trip to a National Wildlife Refuge, conquering the cascades of White Oak Canyon, a weekend escape in Shenandoah National Park, and a sneak peek visit to the first Virginia’s Adventure Towns episode of the new season. But this isn’t just a recap of places I’ve visited. Along the way, I’ll share the trails, parks, paddling spots, wildlife destinations, and practical details that can help you turn some of these ideas into adventures of your own. So if you’re looking for inspiration for your next trip, or just want to discover somewhere new, there’s a lot to cover. Let’s Go! This is Part 4 of a multi-part episode. Follow VAOA Podcast: Instagram I Facebook I Newsletter Sign Up Support the Show! Buy Me A Coffee Shop the Virginia Outdoor Adventures Merch Store! LISTENER SURVEY - Enter to win a $50 gift card from River Rock Outfitter  VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by: Virginia Association for Parks Breaks Interstate Park Virginia State Parks Heart of Appalachia  Ads: Iris Inn and Cabins Afton Mountain Vineyards Breaks Park Heart of Appalachia  LISTENER SURVEY - Enter to win a $50 gift card from River Rock Outfitter   Mentioned in this Episode: Book: Ghost Girl, A Blue Ridge Mountain Story Virginia’s Venomous and Nonvenomous Snakes: Hiking Safety, Myths, and Appreciation with Caroline Seitz, Virginia Herpetological Society (Episode 62) Mushroom Foraging in Virginia: Wild Edibles, Seasonal Finds, and Foraging Tips with Gabrielle Cerberville, aka the Chaotic Forager (Episode 80) Good Fire with Sam Lopez, Wildlife Area Manager, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (Episode 25) Guide Book: Day Hike Washington Mount Rainer Bird Guide, Pamela, Birding is Punk Bird Guide, Miguel, Birdnomad NovaParks Roving Naturalist programs with Matt Felperin Wandering Waters Paddle Quest at Virginia State Parks Canyoneering with Andy Nichols, Shenandoah Mountain Guides  Mountain Biking in Harrisonburg (Episode 21) Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

    Summer Hiking & Travel Adventures: Shenandoah National Park, British Columbia, Mount Rainier, & Mexico City (Ep 90, Pt 4)

  5. Sep 1

    Summer Hiking & Travel Adventures: Shenandoah National Park, British Columbia, Mount Rainier, & Mexico City (Ep 90, Pt 3)

    What do you get when you pack a season with mountain hikes, national park trails, sunset paddles, waterfall rappelling, and a little international travel? A pretty epic summer. In this episode, we’re going on a North American extravaganza - from the snow-capped Rockies of British Columbia to the trails around Mount Rainier, and into the mountains surrounding Mexico City. Back in Virginia, there are sunset paddles in regional and state parks, a road trip to a National Wildlife Refuge, conquering the cascades of White Oak Canyon, a weekend escape in Shenandoah National Park, and a sneak peek visit to the first Virginia’s Adventure Towns episode of the new season. But this isn’t just a recap of places I’ve visited. Along the way, I’ll share the trails, parks, paddling spots, wildlife destinations, and practical details that can help you turn some of these ideas into adventures of your own. So if you’re looking for inspiration for your next trip, or just want to discover somewhere new, there’s a lot to cover. Let’s Go! This is Part 3 of a multi-part episode. Follow VAOA Podcast: Instagram I Facebook I Newsletter Sign Up Support the Show! Buy Me A Coffee Shop the Virginia Outdoor Adventures Merch Store! LISTENER SURVEY - Enter to win a $50 gift card from River Rock Outfitter  VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by: Virginia Association for Parks Breaks Interstate Park Virginia State Parks Heart of Appalachia  Ads: Iris Inn and Cabins Afton Mountain Vineyards Breaks Park Heart of Appalachia  LISTENER SURVEY - Enter to win a $50 gift card from River Rock Outfitter   Mentioned in this Episode: Book: Ghost Girl, A Blue Ridge Mountain Story Virginia’s Venomous and Nonvenomous Snakes: Hiking Safety, Myths, and Appreciation with Caroline Seitz, Virginia Herpetological Society (Episode 62) Mushroom Foraging in Virginia: Wild Edibles, Seasonal Finds, and Foraging Tips with Gabrielle Cerberville, aka the Chaotic Forager (Episode 80) Good Fire with Sam Lopez, Wildlife Area Manager, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (Episode 25) Guide Book: Day Hike Washington Mount Rainer Bird Guide, Pamela, Birding is Punk Bird Guide, Miguel, Birdnomad NovaParks Roving Naturalist programs with Matt Felperin Wandering Waters Paddle Quest at Virginia State Parks Canyoneering with Andy Nichols, Shenandoah Mountain Guides  Mountain Biking in Harrisonburg (Episode 21) Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

    Summer Hiking & Travel Adventures: Shenandoah National Park, British Columbia, Mount Rainier, & Mexico City (Ep 90, Pt 3)

  6. Aug 25

    Summer Hiking & Travel Adventures: Shenandoah National Park, British Columbia, Mount Rainier, & Mexico City (Ep 90, Pt 2)

    What do you get when you pack a season with mountain hikes, national park trails, sunset paddles, waterfall rappelling, and a little international travel? A pretty epic summer. In this episode, we’re going on a North American extravaganza - from the snow-capped Rockies of British Columbia to the trails around Mount Rainier, and into the mountains surrounding Mexico City. Back in Virginia, there are sunset paddles in regional and state parks, a road trip to a National Wildlife Refuge, conquering the cascades of White Oak Canyon, a weekend escape in Shenandoah National Park, and a sneak peek visit to the first Virginia’s Adventure Towns episode of the new season. But this isn’t just a recap of places I’ve visited. Along the way, I’ll share the trails, parks, paddling spots, wildlife destinations, and practical details that can help you turn some of these ideas into adventures of your own. So if you’re looking for inspiration for your next trip, or just want to discover somewhere new, there’s a lot to cover. Let’s Go! Follow VAOA Podcast: Instagram I Facebook I Newsletter Sign Up Support the Show! Buy Me A Coffee Shop the Virginia Outdoor Adventures Merch Store! LISTENER SURVEY - Enter to win a $50 gift card from River Rock Outfitter  VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by: Virginia Association for Parks Breaks Interstate Park Virginia State Parks Heart of Appalachia  Ads: Iris Inn and Cabins Afton Mountain Vineyards Breaks Park Heart of Appalachia  LISTENER SURVEY - Enter to win a $50 gift card from River Rock Outfitter   Mentioned in this Episode: Book: Ghost Girl, A Blue Ridge Mountain Story Virginia’s Venomous and Nonvenomous Snakes: Hiking Safety, Myths, and Appreciation with Caroline Seitz, Virginia Herpetological Society (Episode 62) Mushroom Foraging in Virginia: Wild Edibles, Seasonal Finds, and Foraging Tips with Gabrielle Cerberville, aka the Chaotic Forager (Episode 80) Good Fire with Sam Lopez, Wildlife Area Manager, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (Episode 25) Guide Book: Day Hike Washington Mount Rainer Bird Guide, Pamela, Birding is Punk Bird Guide, Miguel, Birdnomad NovaParks Roving Naturalist programs with Matt Felperin Wandering Waters Paddle Quest at Virginia State Parks Canyoneering with Andy Nichols, Shenandoah Mountain Guides  Mountain Biking in Harrisonburg (Episode 21) Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

    Summer Hiking & Travel Adventures: Shenandoah National Park, British Columbia, Mount Rainier, & Mexico City (Ep 90, Pt 2)

  7. Aug 18

    Summer Hiking & Travel Adventures: Shenandoah National Park, British Columbia, Mount Rainier, & Mexico City (Ep 90, Pt 1)

    What do you get when you pack a season with mountain hikes, national park trails, sunset paddles, waterfall rappelling, and a little international travel? A pretty epic summer. In this episode, we’re going on a North American extravaganza - from the snow-capped Rockies of British Columbia to the trails around Mount Rainier, and into the mountains surrounding Mexico City. Back in Virginia, there are sunset paddles in regional and state parks, a road trip to a National Wildlife Refuge, conquering the cascades of White Oak Canyon, a weekend escape in Shenandoah National Park, and a sneak peek visit to the first Virginia’s Adventure Towns episode of the new season. But this isn’t just a recap of places I’ve visited. Along the way, I’ll share the trails, parks, paddling spots, wildlife destinations, and practical details that can help you turn some of these ideas into adventures of your own. So if you’re looking for inspiration for your next trip, or just want to discover somewhere new, there’s a lot to cover. Let’s Go! Follow VAOA Podcast: Instagram I Facebook I Newsletter Sign Up Support the Show! Buy Me A Coffee Shop the Virginia Outdoor Adventures Merch Store! LISTENER SURVEY - Enter to win a $50 gift card from River Rock Outfitter  VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by: Virginia Association for Parks Breaks Interstate Park Virginia State Parks Heart of Appalachia  Ads: Iris Inn and Cabins Afton Mountain Vineyards Breaks Park Heart of Appalachia  LISTENER SURVEY - Enter to win a $50 gift card from River Rock Outfitter   Mentioned in this Episode: Book: Ghost Girl, A Blue Ridge Mountain Story Virginia’s Venomous and Nonvenomous Snakes: Hiking Safety, Myths, and Appreciation with Caroline Seitz, Virginia Herpetological Society (Episode 62) Mushroom Foraging in Virginia: Wild Edibles, Seasonal Finds, and Foraging Tips with Gabrielle Cerberville, aka the Chaotic Forager (Episode 80) Good Fire with Sam Lopez, Wildlife Area Manager, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (Episode 25) Guide Book: Day Hike Washington Mount Rainer Bird Guide, Pamela, Birding is Punk Bird Guide, Miguel, Birdnomad NovaParks Roving Naturalist programs with Matt Felperin Wandering Waters Paddle Quest at Virginia State Parks Canyoneering with Andy Nichols, Shenandoah Mountain Guides  Mountain Biking in Harrisonburg (Episode 21) Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

    Summer Hiking & Travel Adventures: Shenandoah National Park, British Columbia, Mount Rainier, & Mexico City (Ep 90, Pt 1)

  8. Aug 4

    Bonus: Episode Swap with Hiker Trash Radio

    Every now and then, I like to introduce you to other podcasts that I genuinely enjoy and think you might love too.  Today's episode is a little different because it's part of a podcast swap with Hiker Trash Radio. That means I'm sharing one of Doc's episodes here on the Virginia Outdoor Adventures feed, and over on Hiker Trash Radio, he's sharing one of my episodes with his listeners. It's a fun way for both of our communities to discover new stories, new voices, and hopefully a new show to add to their playlists. If you love hearing from thru hikers, climbers, adventure athletes, and people who aren't afraid to embrace a little Type II fun, I think you're going to enjoy Hiker Trash Radio.  The episode you're about to hear is the first installment of a documentary called The Barkley: A Love Story. Episode one explores the legendary Barkley Marathons through the stories of the people whose lives have been shaped by this extraordinary event. If you enjoy what you hear, and I think you will, you'll want to head over to Hiker Trash Radio to listen to the rest of the series.  So, sit back, enjoy the episode, and then be sure to subscribe. Let Doc know that Jessica sent you. Follow VAOA Podcast: Instagram I Facebook I Newsletter Sign Up Support the Show! Buy Me A Coffee Shop the Virginia Outdoor Adventures Merch Store! LISTENER SURVEY - Enter to win a $50 gift card from River Rock Outfitter  VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by: Virginia Association for Parks Breaks Interstate Park Virginia State Parks Heart of Appalachia  Ads: LISTENER SURVEY - Enter to win a $50 gift card from River Rock Outfitter   Mentioned in this Episode: Listen to Hiker Trash Radio Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

    Bonus: Episode Swap with Hiker Trash Radio
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4.9
out of 5
102 Ratings

About

From the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Chesapeake Bay, Virginia is a mecca for outdoor travel and adventure. Virginia Outdoor Adventures Podcast is your local guide to hiking, camping, kayaking, travel and so much more. Get the information and the inspiration to plan your own adventure, right here in Virginia. Lets Go!

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