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. 5h ago

    Beyond Hiking in Shenandoah National Park: Climbing, Cascading, Navigation, & Survival Skills with Andy Nichols, Shenandoah Mountain Guides (Ep 92, Part 2)

    When you think about Shenandoah National Park, you probably picture scenic overlooks, waterfalls, and miles of hiking trails. But what if there’s another side of Shenandoah waiting to be explored, and you don’t have to stick to the trail to find it? Think rock climbing high above the Shenandoah Valley, rappelling down waterfalls, scrambling through mountain streams, navigating with a map and compass, and learning the skills you need when the unexpected happens. That’s exactly what we’re getting into today with mountain guide, Andy Nichols, owner of Shenandoah Mountain Guides. Andy has spent decades helping people get beyond their comfort zones and experience the Blue Ridge in some pretty incredible ways. These unique adventures may be unlike anything you’ve ever done in Virginia. So whether you’re an experienced adventurer looking for your next challenge, or you’re ready to learn some new skills and become more confident outdoors, this episode is going to give you plenty of inspiration to get outside and discover just how much more there is to experience in Shenandoah National Park. 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  Ads: Visit Harrisonburg Episode 91. Virginia's Adventure Towns: Harrisonburg Mentioned in this Episode: Connect with Andy Nichols: Shenandoah Mountains Guides Episode 33: Hiking Old Rag Mountain Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

    Beyond Hiking in Shenandoah National Park: Climbing, Cascading, Navigation, & Survival Skills with Andy Nichols, Shenandoah Mountain Guides (Ep 92, Part 2)

  2. Oct 13

    Beyond Hiking in Shenandoah National Park: Climbing, Cascading, Navigation, & Survival Skills with Andy Nichols, Shenandoah Mountain Guides (Ep 92, Part 1)

    When you think about Shenandoah National Park, you probably picture scenic overlooks, waterfalls, and miles of hiking trails. But what if there’s another side of Shenandoah waiting to be explored, and you don’t have to stick to the trail to find it? Think rock climbing high above the Shenandoah Valley, rappelling down waterfalls, scrambling through mountain streams, navigating with a map and compass, and learning the skills you need when the unexpected happens. That’s exactly what we’re getting into today with mountain guide, Andy Nichols, owner of Shenandoah Mountain Guides. Andy has spent decades helping people get beyond their comfort zones and experience the Blue Ridge in some pretty incredible ways. These unique adventures may be unlike anything you’ve ever done in Virginia. So whether you’re an experienced adventurer looking for your next challenge, or you’re ready to learn some new skills and become more confident outdoors, this episode is going to give you plenty of inspiration to get outside and discover just how much more there is to experience in Shenandoah National Park. 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  Ads: Visit Harrisonburg Episode 91. Virginia's Adventure Towns: Harrisonburg Mentioned in this Episode: Connect with Andy Nichols: Shenandoah Mountains Guides Episode 33: Hiking Old Rag Mountain Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

    Beyond Hiking in Shenandoah National Park: Climbing, Cascading, Navigation, & Survival Skills with Andy Nichols, Shenandoah Mountain Guides (Ep 92, Part 1)

  3. 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)

  4. 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)

  5. 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)

  6. 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)

  7. 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)

  8. 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)
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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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