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

Virginia Outdoor Adventures Podcast
  • 4.9 (101)
  • 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. 23h ago

    Breaks Park Hiking Guide: New Trails, Swinging Bridges & Hidden Places You've Never Been Before, with Rangers Daniel Flores and Ronnie Hylton (Ep 89, Pt 1)

    What if I told you there are places inside one of Virginia’s most spectacular landscapes that no hiker has ever been able to experience…until now? We're heading to Breaks Park, known as the Grand Canyon of the South, where several brand-new hiking trails and trail improvements are opening up parts of the park that visitors have never been able to explore before. From hiking along historic logging routes leading deep into the gorge, to discovering a breathtaking new overlook, crossing swinging bridges beneath towering sandstone cliffs, and exploring forests rich with wildlife and Appalachian history, there's never been a better time to visit the Breaks. Joining me are Senior Ranger Daniel Flores and Chief Ranger Ronnie Hylton, two people who know these mountains, trails, and the stories behind them better than almost anyone. They'll take us behind the scenes of these exciting new projects, share the history that shaped this incredible landscape, and help you plan your own unforgettable hiking adventure in the Heart of Appalachia. 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: Heart of Appalachia  Support the Show! Buy Me A Coffee LISTENER SURVEY - Enter to win a $50 gift card from River Rock Outfitter   Mentioned in this Episode: Hiking at the Breaks Breaks Park Website Instagram I Facebook Episode 61 - Scenic Hikes is Southwest Virginia: Breaks Park and Pine Mountain Trail Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Enter to win a prize pack, including a $50 gift card, from River Rock Outfitter!     Take the LISTENER SURVEY Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

    Breaks Park Hiking Guide: New Trails, Swinging Bridges & Hidden Places You've Never Been Before, with Rangers Daniel Flores and Ronnie Hylton (Ep 89, Pt 1)

  2. Jun 30

    National and State Park Travel Stories from California, Alabama, and Virginia (Ep 88, Part 2)

    In this solo episode, I'm taking you along on another whirlwind journey that spans thousands of miles and some of the most memorable outdoor adventures I've had all year. From birding along Alabama's Gulf Coast and exploring Chincoteague's marshes to rock climbing in Shenandoah National Park, hiking brand new trails at the Breaks, and standing under giant Redwoods in California’s Muir Woods, there's a lot to unpack. Along the way, I'll share stories from the trail, tips to plan your own adventure, and a few behind-the-scenes moments from recent podcast episodes. Plus, I'm asking for your feedback as I consider a question that could shape the future of Virginia Outdoor Adventures. So grab your hiking boots, binoculars, or favorite road trip snack, and join me for a journey through state and national parks, coastal landscapes, mountain trails, and the adventures that continue to inspire this podcast. 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: Support the Show! Buy Me A Coffee LISTENER SURVEY - Enter to win a $50 gift card from River Rock Outfitter A Hiker's History of the Appalachian Trail with Mills Kelly Hiking Virginia's Summits with Erin Gifford Rock Climbing with Andy Nichols, Shenandoah Mountain Guides Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Enter to win a prize pack, including a $50 gift card, from River Rock Outfitter!     Take the LISTENER SURVEY Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

    National and State Park Travel Stories from California, Alabama, and Virginia (Ep 88, Part 2)

  3. Jun 23

    National and State Park Travel Stories from California, Alabama, and Virginia (Ep 88, Part 1)

    In this solo episode, I'm taking you along on another whirlwind journey that spans thousands of miles and some of the most memorable outdoor adventures I've had all year. From birding along Alabama's Gulf Coast and exploring Chincoteague's marshes to rock climbing in Shenandoah National Park, hiking brand new trails at the Breaks, and standing under giant Redwoods in California’s Muir Woods, there's a lot to unpack. Along the way, I'll share stories from the trail, tips to plan your own adventure, and a few behind-the-scenes moments from recent podcast episodes. Plus, I'm asking for your feedback as I consider a question that could shape the future of Virginia Outdoor Adventures. So grab your hiking boots, binoculars, or favorite road trip snack, and join me for a journey through state and national parks, coastal landscapes, mountain trails, and the adventures that continue to inspire this podcast. 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: Support the Show! Buy Me A Coffee LISTENER SURVEY - Enter to win a $50 gift card from River Rock Outfitter A Hiker's History of the Appalachian Trail with Mills Kelly Hiking Virginia's Summits with Erin Gifford Rock Climbing with Andy Nichols, Shenandoah Mountain Guides Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Enter to win a prize pack, including a $50 gift card, from River Rock Outfitter!     Take the LISTENER SURVEY Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

    National and State Park Travel Stories from California, Alabama, and Virginia (Ep 88, Part 1)

  4. Jun 9

    Birding in Virginia: A Guide to Virginia State Parks with Ranger Evan Spears (Ep 87, Part 2)

    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! 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 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 Enter to win a prize pack, including a $50 gift card, from River Rock Outfitter!     Take the LISTENER SURVEY Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

    Birding in Virginia: A Guide to Virginia State Parks with Ranger Evan Spears (Ep 87, Part 2)

  5. Jun 2

    Birding in Virginia: A Guide to Virginia State Parks with Ranger Evan Spears (Ep 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 Enter to win a prize pack, including a $50 gift card, from River Rock Outfitter!     Take the LISTENER SURVEY Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

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

  6. 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 Enter to win a prize pack, including a $50 gift card, from River Rock Outfitter!     Take the LISTENER SURVEY Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

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

  7. 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 Enter to win a prize pack, including a $50 gift card, from River Rock Outfitter!     Take the LISTENER SURVEY Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

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

  8. 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 Enter to win a prize pack, including a $50 gift card, from River Rock Outfitter!     Take the LISTENER SURVEY Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

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