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

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Episode 50. Virginia’s Adventure Towns: St. Paul with Maddie Gordon, Clinch Life Outfitters

Mentioned in this Episode:

Connect with Maddie Gordon: Clinch Life Outfitters I Facebook

Heart of Appalachia: Lebanon

Pinnacle Natural Area Preserve

Tank Hollow Falls - Cleveland Barrens Natural Area Preserve

The Channels Natural Area Preserve

Laurel Bed Lake, Clinch Mountain WMA

jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

Nov 3, 2026 47 min

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

Season 7

Show notes

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.

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Episode 91. Virginia's Adventure Towns: Harrisonburg

Mentioned in this Episode:

Connect with Andy Nichols: Shenandoah Mountains Guides

Episode 33: Hiking Old Rag Mountain

jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

Oct 20, 2026 32 min

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

Season 7

Show notes

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!

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VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by:

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Episode 91. Virginia's Adventure Towns: Harrisonburg

Mentioned in this Episode:

Connect with Andy Nichols: Shenandoah Mountains Guides

Episode 33: Hiking Old Rag Mountain

jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

Oct 13, 2026 40 min

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

Season 7

Show notes

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.

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Mentioned in this Episode:

Harrisonburg Outdoor Adventures

Harrisonburg Hikes

Downtown Harrisonburg

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

jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

Sep 29, 2026 45 min

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

Season 7

Show notes

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.

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VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by:

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Mentioned in this Episode:

Harrisonburg Outdoor Adventures

Harrisonburg Hikes

Downtown Harrisonburg

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

jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

Sep 22, 2026 46 min

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

Season 6

Show notes

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.

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Mentioned in this Episode:

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)

NovaParks Roving Naturalist programs with Matt Felperin

Wandering Waters Paddle Quest at Virginia State Parks

Canyoneering with Andy Nichols, Shenandoah Mountain Guides

jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

Sep 15, 2026 57 min

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

Season 6

Show notes

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:

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Mentioned in this Episode:

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)

NovaParks Roving Naturalist programs with Matt Felperin

Wandering Waters Paddle Quest at Virginia State Parks

Canyoneering with Andy Nichols, Shenandoah Mountain Guides

jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

Sep 8, 2026 42 min

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

Season 6

Show notes

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:

LISTENER SURVEY - Enter to win a $50 gift card from River Rock Outfitter

VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by:

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Mentioned in this Episode:

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)

NovaParks Roving Naturalist programs with Matt Felperin

Wandering Waters Paddle Quest at Virginia State Parks

Canyoneering with Andy Nichols, Shenandoah Mountain Guides

jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

Sep 1, 2026 44 min

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

Season 6

Show notes

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:

LISTENER SURVEY - Enter to win a $50 gift card from River Rock Outfitter

VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by:

Ads:

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Mentioned in this Episode:

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)

NovaParks Roving Naturalist programs with Matt Felperin

Wandering Waters Paddle Quest at Virginia State Parks

Canyoneering with Andy Nichols, Shenandoah Mountain Guides

jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

Aug 25, 2026 35 min

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

Season 6

Show notes

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:

LISTENER SURVEY - Enter to win a $50 gift card from River Rock Outfitter

VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by:

Ads:

LISTENER SURVEY - Enter to win a $50 gift card from River Rock Outfitter

Mentioned in this Episode:

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)

NovaParks Roving Naturalist programs with Matt Felperin

Wandering Waters Paddle Quest at Virginia State Parks

Canyoneering with Andy Nichols, Shenandoah Mountain Guides

jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

Aug 18, 2026 42 min

Bonus: Episode Swap with Hiker Trash Radio

Season 6

Show notes

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.

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Listen to Hiker Trash Radio

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Mentioned in this Episode:

jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

Aug 4, 2026 24 min

Breaks Park Hiking Guide: New Trails, Swinging Bridges & Hidden Places You've Never Been Before, with Rangers Daniel Flores and Ronnie Hylton (Ep 89, Part 2)

Season 6

Show notes

What if I told you there are places inside one of Virginia’s most spectacular landscapes that no hiker has ever experienced…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!

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Episode 61 - Scenic Hikes is Southwest Virginia: Breaks Park and Pine Mountain Trail

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Mentioned in this Episode:

Hiking at the Breaks

Breaks Park Website

Instagram I Facebook

jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

Jul 21, 2026 35 min

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

Season 6

Show notes

What if I told you there are places inside one of Virginia’s most spectacular landscapes that no hiker has ever experienced…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:

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VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by:

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Episode 61 - Scenic Hikes is Southwest Virginia: Breaks Park and Pine Mountain Trail

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

jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

Jul 14, 2026 42 min

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

Season 6

Show notes

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.

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Mentioned in this Episode:

A Hiker's History of the Appalachian Trail with Mills Kelly

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Hiking Virginia's Summits with Erin Gifford

Rock Climbing with Andy Nichols, Shenandoah Mountain Guides

jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

Jun 30, 2026 48 min

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

Season 6

Show notes

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:

VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by:

Mentioned in this Episode:

A Hiker's History of the Appalachian Trail with Mills Kelly

LISTENER SURVEY - Enter to win a $50 gift card from River Rock Outfitter

Hiking Virginia's Summits with Erin Gifford

Rock Climbing with Andy Nichols, Shenandoah Mountain Guides

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jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

Jun 23, 2026 57 min

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

Season 6

Show notes

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.

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VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by:

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

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jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

Jun 9, 2026 27 min

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

Season 6

Show notes

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:

VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by:

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

Instagram I Facebook I Newsletter Sign Up
Support the Show! Buy Me A Coffee

jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

Jun 2, 2026 29 min

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

Show notes

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!

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Virginia State Parks' International Dark Sky Parks

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Zenbivy

Mentioned in this Episode:

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)

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jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

May 12, 2026 24 min

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

Season 6

Show notes

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!

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Virginia State Parks' International Dark Sky Parks

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Mentioned in this Episode:

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)

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jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

May 5, 2026 28 min

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

Season 6

Show notes

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.

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