Virginia Outdoor Adventures: Hiking, Camping, Kayaking, Local Travel and more!
Virginia Outdoor Adventures Podcast
106 episodes
5 days ago
The Appalachian Trail is more than a footpath - it’s a living piece of American history. Stretching over 2,000 miles from Georgia to Maine, the A.T. winds through some of Virginia’s most beautiful and rugged landscapes. But have you ever wondered how this legendary trail came to be, and who the dreamers, builders, and hikers were that shaped it? We’re hiking through history with someone who knows the Appalachian Trail like few others do. My friend, Mills Kelly, is a historian, archivist, podc...
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The Appalachian Trail is more than a footpath - it’s a living piece of American history. Stretching over 2,000 miles from Georgia to Maine, the A.T. winds through some of Virginia’s most beautiful and rugged landscapes. But have you ever wondered how this legendary trail came to be, and who the dreamers, builders, and hikers were that shaped it? We’re hiking through history with someone who knows the Appalachian Trail like few others do. My friend, Mills Kelly, is a historian, archivist, podc...
The Appalachian Trail is more than a footpath - it’s a living piece of American history. Stretching over 2,000 miles from Georgia to Maine, the A.T. winds through some of Virginia’s most beautiful and rugged landscapes. But have you ever wondered how this legendary trail came to be, and who the dreamers, builders, and hikers were that shaped it? We’re hiking through history with someone who knows the Appalachian Trail like few others do. My friend, Mills Kelly, is a historian, archivist, podc...
When you think of Grayson County, you probably picture some of the most iconic outdoor destinations in Virginia, such as the sweeping vistas of Grayson Highlands or the summits of Mount Rogers or Whitetop. But just down the New River lies a place that’s every bit as rich in beauty and history - the small, riverside town of Fries. Once a bustling textile mill town, Fries is now a quiet haven for paddlers, cyclists, and hikers seeking a slower pace. You can launch your kayak right into the Ne...
When you think of Grayson County, you probably picture some of the most iconic outdoor destinations in Virginia, such as the sweeping vistas of Grayson Highlands or the summits of Mount Rogers or Whitetop. But just down the New River lies a place that’s every bit as rich in beauty and history - the small, riverside town of Fries. Once a bustling textile mill town, Fries is now a quiet haven for paddlers, cyclists, and hikers seeking a slower pace. You can launch your kayak right into the Ne...
Virginia’s forests are alive with hidden treasures—and they taste delicious. From morels to chicken-of-the-woods, Virginia is a forager’s dream. Dive into the fascinating world of mushroom foraging with Gabrielle Cerberville, better known online as the “Chaotic Forager.” Gabrielle is a foraging educator, community mycologist, and the author of her debut book, “Gathered: On Foraging, Feasting, and the Seasonal Life.” You’ll learn where and when to find wild mushrooms ...
Virginia’s forests are alive with hidden treasures—and they taste delicious. From morels to chicken-of-the-woods, Virginia is a forager’s dream. Dive into the fascinating world of mushroom foraging with Gabrielle Cerberville, better known online as the “Chaotic Forager.” Gabrielle is a foraging educator, community mycologist, and the author of her debut book, “Gathered: On Foraging, Feasting, and the Seasonal Life.” You’ll learn where and when to find wild mushrooms ...
Nestled between the Potomac and Rappahannock Rivers, King George County is a destination that offers adventure on land and water. Our guests, Jenna and Warren Veazey, members of the Friends of Dahlgren Railroad Heritage Trail and the Friends of Caledon State Park, lead us on an exploration of this Northern Neck community’s hidden gems. Hike, run, or cycle the Dahlgren Railroad Heritage Trail, a converted railway where you’ll find everything from smooth, accessible pathways...
Nestled between the Potomac and Rappahannock Rivers, King George County is a destination that offers adventure on land and water. Our guests, Jenna and Warren Veazey, members of the Friends of Dahlgren Railroad Heritage Trail and the Friends of Caledon State Park, lead us on an exploration of this Northern Neck community’s hidden gems. Hike, run, or cycle the Dahlgren Railroad Heritage Trail, a converted railway where you’ll find everything from smooth, accessible pathways...
Big news, Adventurers - Virginia Outdoor Adventures is back with a brand new season! That means more inspiring stories, hidden gems, travel-ready resources, and new adventures across our Commonwealth. In this Season 6 Trailer, get a sneak peek at new content inspired by you, as well as a chance to shape future episodes with your feedback. Be the first to hear about new features designed to keep you inspired and in the know about all things Virginia outdoors, and upcoming events where yo...
After 10,000 miles crisscrossing Virginia, 17 full episodes, and 4 bonus features, Season Five of Virginia Outdoor Adventures has been a remarkable journey of discovery and connection. What began as a pandemic project has evolved into a five-season exploration of the Commonwealth's most breathtaking outdoor destinations, hidden gems, and adventure opportunities. This season marked several firsts, including five solo episodes covering practical topics like packing checklists and seasona...
If you’ve ever dreamed of backpacking through the wild but felt unsure about jumping straight into the backcountry, primitive camping in Virginia State Parks might be your perfect middle ground. Ranger Amelia Hulth from Powhatan State Park describes how these minimalist campsites offer just enough amenities to keep things comfortable while giving you a true taste of the wild. We review each primitive campground, including distance to hike in, terrain, difficulty level, and ame...
If you’ve ever dreamed of backpacking through the wild but felt unsure about jumping straight into the backcountry, primitive camping in Virginia State Parks might be your perfect middle ground. Ranger Amelia Hulth from Powhatan State Park describes how these minimalist campsites offer just enough amenities to keep things comfortable while giving you a true taste of the wild. We review each primitive campground, including distance to hike in, terrain, difficulty level, and ame...
Tucked into the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Martinsville reveals itself as an unexpected paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Anna Wheeler and Brian Williams from the Dan River Basin Association share their intimate knowledge of this small city with its outsized adventure potential. The Smith River Blueway provides 45 miles of accessible paddling and world-class trout fishing on the crown jewel of Martinsville. Just beyond city limits, Philpott Lake offers 25 miles of undeveloped shor...
Tucked into the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Martinsville reveals itself as an unexpected paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Anna Wheeler and Brian Williams from the Dan River Basin Association share their intimate knowledge of this small city with its outsized adventure potential. The Smith River Blueway provides 45 miles of accessible paddling and world-class trout fishing on the crown jewel of Martinsville. Just beyond city limits, Philpott Lake offers 25 miles of undeveloped shor...
Descend with us into Virginia's spectacular underworld as we explore the hidden realm of wild caves. Unlike commercial show caves, wild caves offer an authentic adventure where nature remains largely untouched. Virginia State Parks’ ranger-led caving programs provide the perfect gateway into this mysterious environment. Ranger Erin Pitts from New River Trail State Park shares insights about cave ecosystems, rare species, and the delicate formations found in these subterranean environmen...
Descend with us into Virginia's spectacular underworld as we explore the hidden realm of wild caves. Unlike commercial show caves, wild caves offer an authentic adventure where nature remains largely untouched. Virginia State Parks’ ranger-led caving programs provide the perfect gateway into this mysterious environment. Ranger Erin Pitts from New River Trail State Park shares insights about cave ecosystems, rare species, and the delicate formations found in these subterranean environmen...
The mountains of Appalachia wrap around Big Stone Gap like a warm embrace, creating a community where outdoor adventure, history, and culture converge. Town Manager, Steve Lawson, describes how the community has transformed from its coal mining roots into a vibrant outdoor recreation destination. The town's crown jewel is the Greenbelt Trail, a scenic paved path following the Powell River through the heart of town. Just minutes away, the Powell River Trail offers a rail-to-trail experience ...
The mountains of Appalachia wrap around Big Stone Gap like a warm embrace, creating a community where outdoor adventure, history, and culture converge. Town Manager, Steve Lawson, describes how the community has transformed from its coal mining roots into a vibrant outdoor recreation destination. The town's crown jewel is the Greenbelt Trail, a scenic paved path following the Powell River through the heart of town. Just minutes away, the Powell River Trail offers a rail-to-trail experience ...
Planning your next camping trip? Let’s take the guesswork out of packing! In this episode, I’m sharing my go-to camping checklist — everything I bring to the campground, from essential supplies and food prep to personal items you won’t want to forget. Plus, get a behind-the-scenes look at my recent road trip across Virginia as I scout out new adventures for upcoming episodes. And if you’re ready to connect in person, I’ve got details on where I’ll be next — come say hi at an upcoming ...
I'm often asked for park recommendations both inside and outside of Virginia. Like you, I'm always looking for a great weekend hike or campground, but also setting my sights on new places to visit on longer trips. One of my favorite resources for new parks to explore is The Parks Podcast, hosted by my friend and Richmond local, Missy Rentz. Missy features parks all across the US, including local, state, and national parks. I especially like the diverse mix of parks she chooses to high...
Could your outdoor adventure turn into a survival situation? In this eye-opening conversation with wilderness expert Tim MacWelch of Advanced Survival Training, we dive into the essential skills and knowledge that could mean the difference between life and death when venturing into Virginia's beautiful but sometimes unforgiving wilderness. Tim shares critical insights about why even experienced hikers and outdoor enthusiasts can find themselves in trouble, including unexpected weather change...
Virginia Outdoor Adventures: Hiking, Camping, Kayaking, Local Travel and more!
The Appalachian Trail is more than a footpath - it’s a living piece of American history. Stretching over 2,000 miles from Georgia to Maine, the A.T. winds through some of Virginia’s most beautiful and rugged landscapes. But have you ever wondered how this legendary trail came to be, and who the dreamers, builders, and hikers were that shaped it? We’re hiking through history with someone who knows the Appalachian Trail like few others do. My friend, Mills Kelly, is a historian, archivist, podc...
