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 shoreline with camping, paddling, and hiking opportunities.

Bring your bike or borrow one for free and ride the Smith River Trail System, a network of local trails, including the 11-mile paved Dick & Willie Passage Trail, that serves as both recreation corridor and community connector.

Anna and Brian also highlight local museums, culinary gems, and fascinating history to add to your must-do Martinsville bucket list. Let’s Go!

This is Part 2 of a two-part episode.

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Breaks Interstate Park

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Heart of Appalachia 

Mentioned in this Episode:

Visit Martinsville Henry County

Connect with Anna Wheeler and Brian Williams:

Dan River Basin Association I Facebook I Instagram

Smith River Blueway

Smith River Outfitters

Philpott Lake

Smith River Trail System

Dick and Willie Passage Rail Trail

YMCA Bike Barn

Beaver Creek Reservoir

Smith River Sports Complex

Mayo River State Park

Food & Drink

Museums, Arts, & Cultural

Things to Do in Martinsville

Lodging

Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message

Contact show host, Jessica Bowser:

[email protected]

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 shoreline with camping, paddling, and hiking opportunities.

Bring your bike or borrow one for free and ride the Smith River Trail System, a network of local trails, including the 11-mile paved Dick & Willie Passage Trail, that serves as both recreation corridor and community connector.

Anna and Brian also highlight local museums, culinary gems, and fascinating history to add to your must-do Martinsville bucket list. Let’s Go!

Join us next week as we dive into Martinsville’s local attractions, including museums, culinary gems, and one of the newest state parks that is open and welcoming visitors. 

Follow VAOA Podcast:

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Support the Show! Buy Me A Coffee

Shop the Virginia Outdoor Adventures Merch Store!

VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by:

Visit Martinsville Henry County

Virginia Association for Parks

Breaks Interstate Park

Virginia State Parks

Heart of Appalachia 

Mentioned in this Episode:

Visit Martinsville Henry County

Connect with Anna Wheeler and Brian Williams:

Dan River Basin Association I Facebook I Instagram

Smith River Blueway

Smith River Outfitters

Philpott Lake

Smith River Trail System

Dick and Willie Passage Rail Trail

YMCA Bike Barn

Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message

Contact show host, Jessica Bowser:

[email protected]

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 environments. 

Whether you're seeking adventure, discovery, or simply a cool respite from the outside heat, Virginia's caves offer unforgettable adventures that you must experience for yourself to truly capture their wonder. Let’s Go!

In part 2 of this episode, Ranger Erin describes unique features and formations you can experience in the underground, memorable wild caving adventures, and how to register for an upcoming ranger-led program.

This is part 2 of a two-part episode.

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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:

Visit Grayson County

Virginia State Parks Interpretive Programs

Mentioned in this Episode:

Connect with Ranger Erin Pitts at New River Trail State Park:

Website I Phone 1-(276)699-6778 I Email: [email protected]

Register for Wild Caving at New River Trail State Park ("Lone Ash Cave Adventures")

Register for Wild Caving at Natural Tunnel State Park ("Wild Cave Tour: Bolling Cave/Pannell Cave")

The Virginia Cave and Karst Trail

Virginia Caves License Plate

Episode 36: Caverns and Caving in Virginia's Karst Regions

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Contact show host, Jessica Bowser:

[email protected]

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 environments. 

Whether you're seeking adventure, discovery, or simply a cool respite from the outside heat, Virginia's caves offer unforgettable adventures that you must experience for yourself to truly capture their wonder. Let’s Go!

Tune in next week for part 2 of this episode when Ranger Erin describes unique features and formations you can experience in the underground, memorable wild caving adventures, and how to register for an upcoming ranger-led program.

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:

Visit Grayson County

Virginia State Parks Interpretive Programs

Mentioned in this Episode:

Connect with Ranger Erin Pitts at New River Trail State Park:

Website I Phone 1-(276)699-6778 I Email: [email protected]

Register for Wild Caving at New River Trail State Park ("Lone Ash Cave Adventures")

Register for Wild Caving at Natural Tunnel State Park ("Wild Cave Tour: Bolling Cave/Pannell Cave")

The Virginia Cave and Karst Trail

Virginia Caves License Plate

Episode 36: Caverns and Caving in Virginia's Karst Regions

Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message

Contact show host, Jessica Bowser:

[email protected]

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 featuring historic tunnels and visible coal seams that tell the story of the region's mining past. 

Adventure seekers will fall in love with scenic Big Cherry Lake, which offers fishing, hiking, paddling, and wildlife watching. 

Round out your Big Stone Gap experience with museums, outdoor theater, music festivals, and a culinary scene that tops off this adventure town’s charm. Let’s Go!

In Part 2, Steve and I dive into Big Stone Gap’s local attractions, including museums, outdoor theater, music festivals and dining. You won’t want to miss an exciting giveaway for a pair of tickets to Blue Highway Fest, one of the largest Bluegrass festivals that celebrates Appalachia’s rich music heritage.

Follow VAOA Podcast:

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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:

Heart of Appalachia 

Breaks Interstate Park

Mentioned in this Episode:

Visit Big Stone Gap

Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message

Contact show host, Jessica Bowser:

[email protected]

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 featuring historic tunnels and visible coal seams that tell the story of the region's mining past. 

Adventure seekers will fall in love with scenic Big Cherry Lake, which offers fishing, hiking, paddling, and wildlife watching. 

Round out your Big Stone Gap experience with museums, outdoor theater, music festivals, and a culinary scene that tops off this adventure town’s charm. Let’s Go!

Join us next week for Part 2 as Steve and I dive into Big Stone Gap’s local attractions, including museums, outdoor theater, music festivals and dining. You won’t want to miss an exciting giveaway for a pair of tickets to Blue Highway Fest, one of the largest Bluegrass festivals that celebrates Appalachia’s rich music heritage.

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:

Heart of Appalachia 

Breaks Interstate Park

Mentioned in this Episode:

Visit Big Stone Gap

Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message

Contact show host, Jessica Bowser:

[email protected]

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 event near you. Let’s Go!

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VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by:

Virginia Association for Parks

Breaks Interstate Park

Virginia State Parks

Heart of Appalachia 

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Virginia State Parks Spring Interpretive Programs

Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message

Contact show host, Jessica Bowser:

[email protected]

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 highlight. There are well known parks such as Big Bend and Death Valley, but many more lesser-known parks waiting to be discovered.

Her episodes are thorough and provide fascinating information about each park, as well as the info you need to plan your visit. I was especially grateful to Missy for her episode about the Statue of Liberty National Monument. Her advice about purchasing entrance passes and timing were invaluable when I visited Lady Liberty and Ellis Island last summer. 

Missy collaborates directly with park staff to ensure that the info she provides is accurate and amplifies the work our park rangers and staff are doing to preserve and protect our public lands. I really love her style and I think you will too.

What you're about to hear is an episode of The Parks Podcast about Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park. If you enjoy this episode, be sure to click on the link in your show notes to Follow The Parks Podcast on your favorite listening app. 

Follow VAOA Podcast:

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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:

The Parks Podcast: Website I Instagram I Facebook

Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message

Contact show host, Jessica Bowser:

[email protected]

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 changes, injuries, becoming lost, or accidents that can escalate quickly. 

The conversation takes a practical turn as Tim addresses listener questions about survival priorities that help you focus on what matters most in an emergency.

Whether you're a casual day hiker or seasoned adventurer, this conversation delivers practical wisdom that makes the outdoors safer for everyone. Let’s Go! 

This is Part 2 of a two-part episode. 

Follow VAOA Podcast:

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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:

Virginia State Parks Spring Interpretive Programs

Keep Going First Aid - Promo Code: VAOAPODCAST

Mentioned in this Episode:

Connect with Tim MacWelch: Website I Instagram 

Advanced Survival Training Promo Code: VAOA15

Episode 34. Foraging for Wild Edible Plants

Episode 62. Virginia’s Venomous and Nonvenomous Snakes: Hiking Safety, Myths, and Appreciation with Caroline Seitz, Virginia Herpetological Society

Morakniv

Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message

Contact show host, Jessica Bowser:

[email protected]

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 changes, injuries, becoming lost, or accidents that can escalate quickly. 

The conversation takes a practical turn as Tim addresses listener questions about survival priorities that help you focus on what matters most in an emergency.

Whether you're a casual day hiker or seasoned adventurer, this conversation delivers practical wisdom that makes the outdoors safer for everyone. Let’s Go! 

Join us next week for part 2 when Tim answers more of your questions about wilderness survival skills, such as how to find shelter and make a fire, and snake bite care. You won’t want to miss an exciting giveaway Tim is offering my listeners. 

Follow VAOA Podcast:

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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:

Virginia State Parks Spring Interpretive Programs

Keep Going First Aid - Promo Code: VAOAPODCAST

Mentioned in this Episode:

Connect with Tim MacWelch: Website I Instagram 

Advanced Survival Training Promo Code: VAOA15

Episode 34. Foraging for Wild Edible Plants

Episode 62. Virginia’s Venomous and Nonvenomous Snakes: Hiking Safety, Myths, and Appreciation with Caroline Seitz, Virginia Herpetological Society

Morakniv

Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message

Contact show host, Jessica Bowser:

[email protected]