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

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.

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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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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

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. 

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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. 

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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:

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]

Episode 70 marks a milestone for Virginia Outdoor Adventures podcast, celebrating nearly five years of epic adventures across the Commonwealth. Looking back, I reflect on the incredible diversity of Virginia's outdoor offerings – from whale watching and caving to kayaking and secluded island camping. These adventures have consistently showcased experiences many listeners didn't realize existed right in their own backyards.

I highlight essential spring adventures across Virginia, from waterfall hikes in Shenandoah National Park to elk viewing in Appalachia. The warming season brings excellent opportunities for paddling, wildlife viewing, boating, backpacking, and dark sky programs.

As I reflect on 70 episodes of discovery, the podcast community continues to grow, bringing outdoor enthusiasts together through shared experiences and inspirational stories. Across Virginia, listeners are discovering new adventures, planning getaways, and connecting with our state’s natural beauty through each episode. Join me as we continue this journey of adventure across Virginia's remarkable outdoor spaces. Let’s Go!

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:

Charlottesville Grotto
Friendly City Inn B&B, Harrisonburg

Spring Adventure Episodes:
Ep 64. Virginia’s Adventure Towns: Onancock
Ep 58. Virginia’s Adventure Towns: Urbanna
Ep 62. Virginia’s Venomous and Nonvenomous Snakes
Ep 54. Ticks and Tick-borne Diseases
Ep 59. Wandering Waters Paddle Quest
Ep 56. Let’s Go Adventures
Ep 9. Bird is the Word
Ep 43. Virginia’s Lost Appalachian Trail
Ep 45. Waterfalls of Shenandoah National Park
Ep 55. Appalachia’s Greatest Conservation Story: Elk Restoration in Southwest Virginia
Ep 61. Scenic Hikes in Breaks Parks and Pine Mountain

Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message

Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser:

[email protected]

Episode 70 marks a milestone for Virginia Outdoor Adventures podcast, celebrating nearly five years of epic adventures across the Commonwealth. Looking back, I reflect on the incredible diversity of Virginia's outdoor offerings – from whale watching and caving to kayaking and secluded island camping. These adventures have consistently showcased experiences many listeners didn't realize existed right in their own backyards.

I highlight essential spring adventures across Virginia, from waterfall hikes in Shenandoah National Park to elk viewing in Appalachia. The warming season brings excellent opportunities for paddling, wildlife viewing, boating, backpacking, and dark sky programs.

As I reflect on 70 episodes of discovery, the podcast community continues to grow, bringing outdoor enthusiasts together through shared experiences and inspirational stories. Across Virginia, listeners are discovering new adventures, planning getaways, and connecting with our state’s natural beauty through each episode. Join me as we continue this journey of adventure across Virginia's remarkable outdoor spaces. 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:

Charlottesville Grotto
Friendly City Inn B&B, Harrisonburg

Spring Adventure Episodes:
Ep 64. Virginia’s Adventure Towns: Onancock
Ep 58. Virginia’s Adventure Towns: Urbanna
Ep 62. Virginia’s Venomous and Nonvenomous Snakes
Ep 54. Ticks and Tick-borne Diseases
Ep 59. Wandering Waters Paddle Quest
Ep 56. Let’s Go Adventures
Ep 9. Bird is the Word
Ep 43. Virginia’s Lost Appalachian Trail
Ep 45. Waterfalls of Shenandoah National Park
Ep 55. Appalachia’s Greatest Conservation Story: Elk Restoration in Southwest Virginia

Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message

Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser:

[email protected]

This week I’m sharing a conversation I had with my friend, Steve Adams, or known by his trail name, Mighty Blue. Steve is an AT thru hiker and host of the popular podcast, Mighty Blue on the Appalachian Trail, The Ultimate Midlife Crisis.
I find Steve’s podcast inspirational for hikers and non-hikers alike. Steve interviews thru hikers while they are on the trail. The result is a raw and unfiltered conversation with people who are in the process of undertaking over 2,100 miles from Georgia to Maine.

In this convo, Steve shares his favorite memories and highlights from his thru hikes in Virginia. 

As podcasters with similar audiences, Steve and I did an episode swap, so when you’re done listening to this episode, be sure to hope over to Steve’s podcast to listen to my guest appearance on his show, where I share an outrageous story about getting stranded on an island in the Chesapeake Bay when our boat was washed out by the tide.

I hope you enjoy this one-on-one with Steve Adams, of Mighty Blue on the Appalachian Trial.

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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

Mentioned in this Episode:

Listen Now: Mighty Blue on the Appalachian Trail

Jessica's guest appearance on Mighty Blue

Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message

Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser:

[email protected]

Immerse yourself in nature’s healing embrace with the transformative power of forest bathing. 

Ana Ka’ahanui, co-founder of Capital Nature, uncovers the secrets behind this mindfulness practice rooted in Japanese culture. 

More than just a walk among the trees, Ana shares how forest bathing can lower blood pressure, enhance creativity, and offer a sanctuary for mental and physical well-being in our fast-paced world. 

We dive into the principles, benefits, and practices of forest bathing, emphasizing its ability to help individuals reconnect to nature in everyday settings and the joy it brings through mindful sensory experiences. Let’s Go!

This is Part 2 of a two-part episode.

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VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by:

Virginia Association for Parks

Breaks Interstate Park

Virginia State Parks

Heart of Appalachia

Advertisers:

Visit Grayson County

Mentioned in this Episode:

Connect with Ana Kaahanui: Website I Instagram (Personal) Instagram (Capital Nature) I Facebook (Personal) Facebook (Capital Nature) I Email: [email protected]

Ana’s upcoming Forest Bathing Walks in the DMV

Association of Nature & Forest Therapy Guides & Programs (ANFT)

ANFT Certified Guides

Forest Bathing Finder

Some of Ana’s favorite books on forest bathing, nature and trees

The Nature Fix (book)

Night Magic (book)

iNaturalist (app)

Seek by iNaturalist (app)

City Nature Challenge (global)

City Nature Challenge (local)

Virginia Master Naturalists

NOVA Park’s Roving Naturalist

Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message

Contact Show Host, Jessica Bowser:

[email protected]