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

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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Virginia Association for Parks

Breaks Interstate Park

Virginia State Parks

Heart of Appalachia 

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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:

[email protected]

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:

[email protected]

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:

[email protected]

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:

[email protected]

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:

[email protected]

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:

[email protected]

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:

[email protected]

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:

[email protected]

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:

[email protected]

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.

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:

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

Mentioned in this Episode:

Listen to Hiker Trash Radio

Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message

Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser:

[email protected]