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

The Heart of Appalachia is full of mountain adventures, but Russell County brings something extra to the mix - extraordinary geological formations, rugged backroads, hidden mountain lakes, and the Clinch River, one of North America's most remarkable freshwater ecosystems. It's a place where the next adventure might be on the trail, on the water, or far off the beaten path.Today we're heading to Lebanon, the latest stop in the Virginia’s Adventure Towns series, to explore all that Russell County has to offer.From hiking and paddling to ATVing and long-distance cycling, Russell County offers a surprising range of ways to explore Southwest Virginia. And with unique places to stay, from immersive farm experiences to cozy cabins and campsites, make the overnight experience part of the adventure, too.Joining me is Maddie Gordon, owner of Clinch Life Outfitters, who previously joined me to explore St. Paul and the Clinch River. This time, we're looking at the bigger picture of Russell County, including where to find great outdoor experiences, local food, and memorable places to stay.So, let's head to Lebanon and discover a different side of Southwest Virginia, where the mountains, the river, and the communities in between make this a destination worth exploring. Let's Go!This is Part 2 of a two-part episode.Follow VAOA Podcast:Instagram I Facebook I Newsletter Sign UpSupport the Show! Buy Me A CoffeeShop the Virginia Outdoor Adventures Merch Store!VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by:Virginia Association for ParksBreaks Interstate ParkVirginia State ParksHeart of Appalachia Mentioned in this Episode:Connect with Maddie Gordon: Clinch Life Outfitters I FacebookEpisode 50. Virginia’s Adventure Towns: St. Paul with Maddie Gordon, Clinch Life OutfittersHeart of Appalachia: LebanonPinnacle Natural Area Preserve Tank Hollow Falls - Cleveland Barrens Natural Area PreserveThe Channels Natural Area PreserveLaurel Bed Lake, Clinch Mountain WMAHidden Valley WMADante Miners' TrailCleveland Swinging BridgeBluebell Island Clinch River State ParkSpearhead TrailsHeart of Appalachia Bicycle RouteBreath of DawnMeadow Haven FarmWestern Front HotelRestaurantsMusic Credit: 49 WinchesterFan Mail - Send Jessica a Text MessageContact Show Host, Jessica Bowser:[email protected]

The Heart of Appalachia is full of mountain adventures, but Russell County brings something extra to the mix - extraordinary geological formations, rugged backroads, hidden mountain lakes, and the Clinch River, one of North America's most remarkable freshwater ecosystems. It's a place where the next adventure might be on the trail, on the water, or far off the beaten path.Today we're heading to Lebanon, the latest stop in the Virginia’s Adventure Towns series, to explore all that Russell County has to offer.From hiking and paddling to ATVing and long-distance cycling, Russell County offers a surprising range of ways to explore Southwest Virginia. And with unique places to stay, from immersive farm experiences to cozy cabins and campsites, make the overnight experience part of the adventure, too.Joining me is Maddie Gordon, owner of Clinch Life Outfitters, who previously joined me to explore St. Paul and the Clinch River. This time, we're looking at the bigger picture of Russell County, including where to find great outdoor experiences, local food, and memorable places to stay.So, let's head to Lebanon and discover a different side of Southwest Virginia, where the mountains, the river, and the communities in between make this a destination worth exploring. Let's Go!Follow VAOA Podcast:Instagram I Facebook I Newsletter Sign UpSupport the Show! Buy Me A CoffeeShop the Virginia Outdoor Adventures Merch Store!VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by:Virginia Association for ParksBreaks Interstate ParkVirginia State ParksHeart of Appalachia Mentioned in this Episode:Connect with Maddie Gordon: Clinch Life Outfitters I FacebookEpisode 50. Virginia’s Adventure Towns: St. Paul with Maddie Gordon, Clinch Life OutfittersHeart of Appalachia: LebanonPinnacle Natural Area Preserve Tank Hollow Falls - Cleveland Barrens Natural Area PreserveThe Channels Natural Area PreserveLaurel Bed Lake, Clinch Mountain WMAMusic Credit: 49 WinchesterFan Mail - Send Jessica a Text MessageContact 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!This is Part 2 of a two-part episode.Follow VAOA Podcast:Instagram I Facebook I Newsletter Sign UpSupport the Show! Buy Me A CoffeeShop the Virginia Outdoor Adventures Merch Store!VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by:Virginia Association for ParksBreaks Interstate ParkVirginia State ParksHeart of Appalachia Ads:Visit HarrisonburgEpisode 91. Virginia's Adventure Towns: HarrisonburgMentioned in this Episode:Connect with Andy Nichols: Shenandoah Mountains GuidesEpisode 33: Hiking Old Rag MountainFan Mail - Send Jessica a Text MessageContact 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 UpSupport the Show! Buy Me A CoffeeShop the Virginia Outdoor Adventures Merch Store!VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by:Virginia Association for ParksBreaks Interstate ParkVirginia State ParksHeart of Appalachia Ads:Visit HarrisonburgEpisode 91. Virginia's Adventure Towns: HarrisonburgMentioned in this Episode:Connect with Andy Nichols: Shenandoah Mountains GuidesEpisode 33: Hiking Old Rag MountainFan Mail - Send Jessica a Text MessageContact 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 UpSupport the Show! Buy Me A CoffeeShop the Virginia Outdoor Adventures Merch Store!VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by:Virginia Association for ParksBreaks Interstate ParkVirginia State ParksHeart of Appalachia Ads:Walkabout OutfitterSupport the Show! Buy Me A CoffeeMentioned in this Episode:Visit HarrisonburgHarrisonburg HikesHarrisonburg Outdoor AdventuresDowntown HarrisonburgWalkabout OutfitterEpisode 83. Massanutten: Your Backyard Mountain Resort for Mountain Biking, Trails, and Shenandoah Valley AdventuresEpisode 21. Mountain Biking with Thomas Jenkins, Co-Owner of Shenandoah Bicycle CompanyClimbing, Caving, and more with Lester Zook, WildGUYde AdventuresHarrisonburg LodgingMusic Credit: Emily Woodhull, Singer/Songwriter - Instagram I Facebook I TikTok: @emwoodhullmusicFan Mail - Send Jessica a Text MessageContact 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 UpSupport the Show! Buy Me A CoffeeShop the Virginia Outdoor Adventures Merch Store!VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by:Virginia Association for ParksBreaks Interstate ParkVirginia State ParksHeart of Appalachia Ads:Walkabout OutfitterSupport the Show! Buy Me A CoffeeMentioned in this Episode:Visit HarrisonburgHarrisonburg HikesHarrisonburg Outdoor AdventuresDowntown HarrisonburgWalkabout OutfitterEpisode 83. Massanutten: Your Backyard Mountain Resort for Mountain Biking, Trails, and Shenandoah Valley AdventuresEpisode 21. Mountain Biking with Thomas Jenkins, Co-Owner of Shenandoah Bicycle CompanyClimbing, Caving, and more with Lester Zook, WildGUYde AdventuresHarrisonburg LodgingMusic Credit: Emily Woodhull, Singer/Songwriter - Instagram I Facebook I TikTok: @emwoodhullmusicFan Mail - Send Jessica a Text MessageContact 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 UpSupport the Show! Buy Me A CoffeeShop 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 ParksBreaks Interstate ParkVirginia State ParksHeart of Appalachia Ads:Iris Inn and CabinsAfton Mountain VineyardsBreaks ParkHeart 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 StoryVirginia’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 RainerBird Guide, Pamela, Birding is PunkBird Guide, Miguel, BirdnomadNovaParks Roving Naturalist programs with Matt FelperinWandering Waters Paddle Quest at Virginia State ParksCanyoneering with Andy Nichols, Shenandoah Mountain Guides Mountain Biking in Harrisonburg (Episode 21)Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text MessageContact 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 UpSupport the Show! Buy Me A CoffeeShop 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 ParksBreaks Interstate ParkVirginia State ParksHeart of Appalachia Ads:Iris Inn and CabinsAfton Mountain VineyardsBreaks ParkHeart 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 StoryVirginia’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 RainerBird Guide, Pamela, Birding is PunkBird Guide, Miguel, BirdnomadNovaParks Roving Naturalist programs with Matt FelperinWandering Waters Paddle Quest at Virginia State ParksCanyoneering with Andy Nichols, Shenandoah Mountain Guides Mountain Biking in Harrisonburg (Episode 21)Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text MessageContact 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 UpSupport the Show! Buy Me A CoffeeShop 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 ParksBreaks Interstate ParkVirginia State ParksHeart of Appalachia Ads:Iris Inn and CabinsAfton Mountain VineyardsBreaks ParkHeart 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 StoryVirginia’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 RainerBird Guide, Pamela, Birding is PunkBird Guide, Miguel, BirdnomadNovaParks Roving Naturalist programs with Matt FelperinWandering Waters Paddle Quest at Virginia State ParksCanyoneering with Andy Nichols, Shenandoah Mountain Guides Mountain Biking in Harrisonburg (Episode 21)Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text MessageContact 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 UpSupport the Show! Buy Me A CoffeeShop 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 ParksBreaks Interstate ParkVirginia State ParksHeart of Appalachia Ads:Iris Inn and CabinsAfton Mountain VineyardsBreaks ParkHeart 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 StoryVirginia’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 RainerBird Guide, Pamela, Birding is PunkBird Guide, Miguel, BirdnomadNovaParks Roving Naturalist programs with Matt FelperinWandering Waters Paddle Quest at Virginia State ParksCanyoneering with Andy Nichols, Shenandoah Mountain Guides Mountain Biking in Harrisonburg (Episode 21)Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text MessageContact Show Host, Jessica Bowser:[email protected]