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

Virginia Outdoor Adventures Podcast
  • 4.9 (101)
  • Places & Travel
  • Updated Semimonthly

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. Birding in Virginia: A Guide to Virginia State Parks with Ranger Evan Spears (Episode 87, Part 1)

    5d ago

    Birding in Virginia: A Guide to Virginia State Parks with Ranger Evan Spears (Episode 87, Part 1)

    A flash of color across a meadow. A flute-like melody sung from a nearby branch. A raptor soaring high above a mountain ridge. These small moments of discovery are what make birding one of the fastest-growing outdoor activities today. Few places can match our incredible diversity of birdlife. From the tiny Ruby-throated Hummingbird to the majestic Tundra Swan, Virginia is home to hundreds of bird species across a remarkable range of habitats. I’m joined by Virginia State Parks ranger and avid birder, Evan Spears. We talk about why birding is helping so many people slow down, look closer, and connect with the outdoors in a whole new way. We’ll explore some of the best birding destinations across Virginia State Parks, share tips for getting started, and learn why spotting even a tiny bird can become a lifelong passion. So grab your binoculars or just your curiosity - there's an entire world of wildlife waiting to be discovered. 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! VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by: Virginia Association for Parks Breaks Interstate Park Virginia State Parks Heart of Appalachia  Mentioned in this Episode: Connect with Ranger Evan Spears: Evan.Spears@dcr.virginia.gov Find Birding Events in Virginia State Parks Merlin Bird ID eBird Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

    28 min
  2. Stargazing in Virginia: Dark Sky Parks with Ranger Patrick Mcnamara, Sky Meadows State Park (Ep 86, Part 2)

    May 12

    Stargazing in Virginia: Dark Sky Parks with Ranger Patrick Mcnamara, Sky Meadows State Park (Ep 86, Part 2)

    What if I told you that one of the most incredible outdoor experiences in Virginia doesn’t happen during the day, but after the sun goes down? We’re heading into one of the most overlooked and truly magical parts of Virginia’s outdoors - the night sky. The kind where the Milky Way stretches overhead, planets come into view, and for a moment, everything feels a little bigger. Virginia is home to several International Dark Sky Parks, places where the night is protected and preserved, not just for stargazers, but for wildlife, ecosystems, and even our own sense of wonder. I’m joined by Ranger Patrick Mcnamara from Sky Meadows State Park, where programs like Astronomy for Everyone are opening up the universe to visitors of all ages. We’ll explore what makes these parks so special, what you can see through a telescope, and how you can experience it for yourself at a Virginia State Park near you. So whether you’re a seasoned stargazer or just someone who hasn’t looked up in a while, this episode might just change the way you see the night. 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! VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by: Virginia Association for Parks Breaks Interstate Park Virginia State Parks Heart of Appalachia  Advertisers: Zenbivy Mentioned in this Episode: Virginia State Parks' International Dark Sky Parks Sky Meadows State Park Friends of Sky Meadows International Dark Skies Association Episode 41. Stargazing in Virginia’s Dark Sky Parks Episode 76. Primitive Camping and Backpacking in Virginia State Parks Northern Virginia Astronomy Club (Sky Meadows State Park) Chapel Hill Observational and Astronomical Society (Staunton River State Park) Roanoke Valley Astronomical Society (Natural Bridge State Park) Crewe Astronomy Club (James River State Park) Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

    23 min
  3. Stargazing in Virginia: Dark Sky Parks with Ranger Patrick Mcnamara, Sky Meadows State Park (Ep 86, Part 1)

    May 5

    Stargazing in Virginia: Dark Sky Parks with Ranger Patrick Mcnamara, Sky Meadows State Park (Ep 86, Part 1)

    What if I told you that one of the most incredible outdoor experiences in Virginia doesn’t happen during the day, but after the sun goes down? We’re heading into one of the most overlooked and truly magical parts of Virginia’s outdoors - the night sky. The kind where the Milky Way stretches overhead, planets come into view, and for a moment, everything feels a little bigger. Virginia is home to several International Dark Sky Parks, places where the night is protected and preserved, not just for stargazers, but for wildlife, ecosystems, and even our own sense of wonder. I’m joined by Ranger Patrick Mcnamara from Sky Meadows State Park, where programs like Astronomy for Everyone are opening up the universe to visitors of all ages. We’ll explore what makes these parks so special, what you can see through a telescope, and how you can experience it for yourself at a Virginia State Park near you. So whether you’re a seasoned stargazer or just someone who hasn’t looked up in a while, this episode might just change the way you see the night. 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! VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by: Virginia Association for Parks Breaks Interstate Park Virginia State Parks Heart of Appalachia  Advertisers: Zenbivy Mentioned in this Episode: Virginia State Parks' International Dark Sky Parks Sky Meadows State Park Friends of Sky Meadows International Dark Skies Association Episode 41. Stargazing in Virginia’s Dark Sky Parks Episode 76. Primitive Camping and Backpacking in Virginia State Parks Northern Virginia Astronomy Club (Sky Meadows State Park) Chapel Hill Observational and Astronomical Society (Staunton River State Park) Roanoke Valley Astronomical Society (Natural Bridge State Park) Crewe Astronomy Club (James River State Park) Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

    27 min
  4. Virginia's Adventure Towns: Norton - High Knob Region Hikes, Waterfalls, and Travel Guide with Katie Dunn, Tourism Director (Ep 85, Part 2)

    Apr 28

    Virginia's Adventure Towns: Norton - High Knob Region Hikes, Waterfalls, and Travel Guide with Katie Dunn, Tourism Director (Ep 85, Part 2)

    We’re heading deep into the mountains of Southwest Virginia to explore Norton, a small city with a big reputation as an outdoor recreation hub in the Heart of Appalachia. Tucked into the High Knob Region and surrounded by the Jefferson National Forest, Norton offers something truly special - easy, immediate access to some of the most diverse and scenic outdoor experiences in the region. From panoramic overlooks and cascading waterfalls to miles of hiking and biking trails, this is a place where adventure starts just minutes from downtown. Whether you're chasing spectacular views at Flag Rock or taking in a gorgeous sunset at High Knob Observation Tower, Norton delivers big outdoor experiences without the crowds. Joining me is Katie Dunn, Director of the High Knob Destination Center and Norton’s Community Engagement and Tourism Director. She’s here to share what makes this mountain town so memorable – from its quaint main street to a little bit of local legend. Let’s Go! 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  Mentioned in this Episode: Connect with Katie Dunn:  Norton, VA (Explore Norton) I High Knob Destination Center  Instagram: @hkdestinationcenter I @nortonvirginia   Facebook: High Knob Destination Center I Explore Norton Jefferson National Forest Flag Rock Recreation Area High Knob Region Outdoor Adventures Food and Drinks Nottingham Place Bed & Breakfast (Wise) Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

    30 min
  5. Virginia's Adventure Towns: Norton - High Knob Region Hikes, Waterfalls, and Travel Guide with Katie Dunn, Tourism Director (Ep 85, Part 1)

    Apr 21

    Virginia's Adventure Towns: Norton - High Knob Region Hikes, Waterfalls, and Travel Guide with Katie Dunn, Tourism Director (Ep 85, Part 1)

    We’re heading deep into the mountains of Southwest Virginia to explore Norton, a small city with a big reputation as an outdoor recreation hub in the Heart of Appalachia. Tucked into the High Knob Region and surrounded by the Jefferson National Forest, Norton offers something truly special - easy, immediate access to some of the most diverse and scenic outdoor experiences in the region. From panoramic overlooks and cascading waterfalls to miles of hiking and biking trails, this is a place where adventure starts just minutes from downtown. Whether you're chasing spectacular views at Flag Rock or taking in a gorgeous sunset at High Knob Observation Tower, Norton delivers big outdoor experiences without the crowds. Joining me is Katie Dunn, Director of the High Knob Destination Center and Norton’s Community Engagement and Tourism Director. She’s here to share what makes this mountain town so memorable – from its quaint main street to a little bit of local legend. 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! VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by: Virginia Association for Parks Breaks Interstate Park Virginia State Parks Heart of Appalachia  Mentioned in this Episode: Connect with Katie Dunn:  Norton, VA (Explore Norton) I High Knob Destination Center  Instagram: @hkdestinationcenter I @nortonvirginia   Facebook: High Knob Destination Center I Explore Norton Jefferson National Forest Flag Rock Recreation Area High Knob Region Outdoor Adventures Food and Drinks Nottingham Place Bed & Breakfast (Wise) Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

    24 min
  6. Across America’s Wild Places: National Park Travel Stories from Saguaro, Channel Islands & Pictured Rocks, Plus an Inside Peek at New Episodes (Ep 84, Part 2)

    Apr 14

    Across America’s Wild Places: National Park Travel Stories from Saguaro, Channel Islands & Pictured Rocks, Plus an Inside Peek at New Episodes (Ep 84, Part 2)

    Welcome back to the second half of Season 6 of Virginia Outdoor Adventures! I’ve got a packed episode for you today, coming off a stretch of incredible nationwide travel - from the towering saguaros of Arizona’s Sonoran Desert to the dramatic cliffs of California’s Channel Islands, frozen shorelines in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, and even dinosaur tracks deep in the heart of Texas. By popular demand, I’m sharing highlights from the trail and beyond, like a moonlit hike in Saguaro National Park, spotting rare wildlife in California, and exploring the frozen beauty of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. We’ll talk wildlife encounters, unexpected lessons, and the moments that remind you just how vast and wild these places really are. Plus, I’ve got a few upcoming events to share, what’s ahead this season to inspire your local travel, and how you can stay connected with the show. So whether you're planning your next adventure or just dreaming about one, this episode will take you there. Let’s Go! 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! Advertiser: Paria Outdoor Products VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by: Virginia Association for Parks Breaks Interstate Park Virginia State Parks Heart of Appalachia  Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

    39 min
  7. Across America’s Wild Places: National Park Travel Stories from Saguaro, Channel Islands & Pictured Rocks, Plus an Inside Peek at New Episodes (Ep 84, Part 1)

    Apr 7

    Across America’s Wild Places: National Park Travel Stories from Saguaro, Channel Islands & Pictured Rocks, Plus an Inside Peek at New Episodes (Ep 84, Part 1)

    Welcome back to the second half of Season 6 of Virginia Outdoor Adventures! I’ve got a packed episode for you today, coming off a stretch of incredible nationwide travel - from the towering saguaros of Arizona’s Sonoran Desert to the dramatic cliffs of California’s Channel Islands, frozen shorelines in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, and even dinosaur tracks deep in the heart of Texas. By popular demand, I’m sharing highlights from the trail and beyond, like a moonlit hike in Saguaro National Park, spotting rare wildlife in California, and exploring the frozen beauty of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. We’ll talk wildlife encounters, unexpected lessons, and the moments that remind you just how vast and wild these places really are. Plus, I’ve got a few upcoming events to share, what’s ahead this season to inspire your local travel, and how you can stay connected with the show. So whether you're planning your next adventure or just dreaming about one, this episode will take you there. 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! VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by: Virginia Association for Parks Breaks Interstate Park Virginia State Parks Heart of Appalachia  Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

    45 min
  8. Massanutten: Your Backyard Mountain Resort for Mountain Biking, Trails, and Shenandoah Valley Adventures with Morgan Mowbry and Charles Sexton (Ep 83, Pt 2)

    12/09/2025

    Massanutten: Your Backyard Mountain Resort for Mountain Biking, Trails, and Shenandoah Valley Adventures with Morgan Mowbry and Charles Sexton (Ep 83, Pt 2)

    We’re heading to Massanutten - “your backyard mountain resort” and one of the best places in Virginia to dive into mountain biking. For Morgan Mowbry and Charles Sexton, it’s more than a destination, it’s home turf for adventure. As dedicated trail builders and volunteers, they’ve helped shape the riding experience on Massanutten’s Western Slope, where passion for both riding and community come together on the trails. We explore how Massanutten Resort works collaboratively with the local community to create access to an incredible network of trails for every skill level - from smooth beginner and family- friendly trails to technical, expert-level singletrack. Morgan and Charles break down what makes Massanutten an ideal place to get started in mountain biking, including group rides and events for locals and visitors alike. Beyond the trails, Massanutten offers a full lineup of four-season activities, from skiing and snow tubing to waterparks, ziplining, hiking, and more, making it a true all-around adventure destination. And with Shenandoah National Park and the George Washington National Forest just minutes away, there are endless opportunities to expand your adventure. We also dive into everything waiting nearby in downtown Harrisonburg, including local outfitters who can help you gear up, small businesses shaped by the region’s outdoor culture, and the restaurants Morgan and Charles recommend for refueling after a day on the bike. It’s a celebration of mountain biking, community collaboration, and the vibrant outdoor scene that makes the Shenandoah Valley a hub for riders and adventurers of all levels. 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! VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by: Virginia Association for Parks Breaks Interstate Park Virginia State Parks Heart of Appalachia  Mentioned in this Episode: Massanutten Resort Shenandoah Valley Bicycle Coalition (SVBC) Episode 21: Mountain Biking with Thomas Jenkins Western Slope Info, Passes, and Trail Maps Massanutten Mountain Biking Massanutten Snow Sports Code for 15% off trail pass: Csextonoutside Shenandoah Bicycle Company Rocktown Bikes Bluestone Bike and Run Walkabout Outfitter Mossy Creek Flyfishing Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

    37 min
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4.9
out of 5
101 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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