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

It’s that time of year when we set intentions for the future. Will your resolutions be outdoorsy? Alejandra Villanueva of the hiking community, Girls Who Hike Virginia, shares the story of her ambitious pursuit to hike Old Rag Mountain 36 times before the end of 2024. Her remarkable journey beautifully intertwined her love of hiking with the transformative power of nature. Alejandra’s adventures on Old Rag are a testament of resilience and profound self-discovery. She offers insights into staying motivated amid unexpected challenges and harnessing the power of a hiking community in keeping her accountable. As we look ahead to the new year, we discuss how to set meaningful outdoor goals for a year of adventure. 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: Register for Parks Advocacy Day Breaks Interstate Park Virginia State Parks Heart of Appalachia Advertisers: Visit Grayson County Veritas Winery Farmhouse Retreat Mentioned in this Episode: Girls Who Hike Virginia: Website I Facebook Group Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Contact show host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

It’s that time of year when we set intentions for the future. Will your resolutions be outdoorsy? Alejandra Villanueva of the hiking community, Girls Who Hike Virginia, shares the story of her ambitious pursuit to hike Old Rag Mountain 36 times before the end of 2024. Her remarkable journey beautifully intertwined her love of hiking with the transformative power of nature. Alajandra’s adventures on Old Rag are a testament of resilience and profound self-discovery. She offers insights into staying motivated amid unexpected challenges and harnessing the power of a hiking community in keeping her accountable. As we look ahead to the new year, we discuss how to set meaningful outdoor goals for a year of adventure. 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: Register for Parks Advocacy Day Breaks Interstate Park Virginia State Parks Heart of Appalachia Advertisers: Visit Grayson County Mentioned in this Episode: Girls Who Hike Virginia: Website I Facebook Group Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Contact show host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

In this special edition episode, I invited Michelle Schopp to share her first Parks Advocacy Day experience. Less than a year ago, Michelle was in the early stages of her Trail Quest journey to visit all of Virginia’s state parks. When she learned about Parks Advocacy Day through this podcast, she immediately reached out and asked to participate. Her experience in Richmond was so empowering that she became actively engaged in the Virginia Association for Parks and now co-chairs the Advocacy Committee. I love Michelle’s story because it’s a lot like my own and probably yours too. Through her personal connection with parks, Michelle realized the important role they play in connecting us with nature while preserving our public lands and historical assets. Michelle’s park story was the catalyst to her becoming a champion for our state parks. Michelle and I discuss her first time meeting with legislators, what you can expect during Parks Advocacy Day, and why anyone can participate regardless of experience. Become a champion for our state parks. Join us this January 22nd in Richmond for Parks Advocacy Day. I hope to see you in Richmond. Follow VAOA Podcast: Instagram I Facebook I Newsletter Sign Up Support the Show! Buy Me A Coffee Shop the Virginia Outdoor Adventures Merch Store! Mentioned in this Episode: Register for Parks Advocacy Day Virginia Association for Parks Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Contact show host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

What if you could acquire the outdoor gear you need for your epic adventures without breaking the bank or contributing to the fast fashion and throwaway culture? Or what if you could declutter your closets and earn some cash for the gear you aren’t using? April Peterson, owner of River Rock Outfitter in Fredericksburg, shares why secondhand and consignment shopping isn't just trendy—it's a powerful way to reduce waste, support your local businesses, and adventure sustainably while also making the outdoors more accessible and affordable. April uncovers the etiquette of buying and selling pre-loved gear and provides tips for gifting used items, so your one-of-a-kind presents will be extra special. Discover unique treasures while keeping gear in the wild. 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 Advertisers: The Nature Conservancy Visit the Eastern Shore of Virginia Mentioned in this Episode: Connect with April Peterson: River Rock Outfitter I (540) 372-8708 I april.peterson@riverrockoutfitter.com Trail Hut, Richmond Good Wolf Gear, Reston HighTor Gear Exchange, Charlottesville Roanoke Mountain Adventures, Roanoke Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Contact show host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

I’m often asked how I got started podcasting, how I pivoted from education to entrepreneurship, and what it takes to run a podcast as a small business. I was delighted to sit down for a conversation with my friend, Shannon Russell, career coach and host of Second Act Success Career Podcast. I’m excited to share my guest appearance on her show where we discuss the unexpected journey I took from being an elementary school teacher, to a nonprofit executive, to a podcaster and advocate for our public lands. For those of you who have been interested in a behind the scenes peek of Virginia Outdoor Adventures, this is it. I hope you enjoy my guest appearance on Second Act Success Career Podcast with Shannon Russell. Follow VAOA Podcast: Instagram I Facebook I Newsletter Sign Up Support the Show! Buy Me A Coffee Shop the Virginia Outdoor Adventures Merch Store! Mentioned in this Episode: Second Act Success Second Act Success Career Podcast Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Contact show host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

This is part 2 of a two-part episode. Check your podcast listening app for part 1. What if you could explore a destination that's off the beaten path yet brimming with natural beauty and cultural treasures? Discover the hidden gem of historic Onancock on Virginia’s Eastern Shore as we set sail with ecotour guides Mary and Bill Burnham, owners of Burnham Guides paddling shop. Our guests share their insider knowledge of this waterfront town with historical architecture, a thriving arts scene, and the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures like kayaking, biking, fishing, and sailing. Paddle your way through history and nature on Onancock Creek, where Mary and Bill guide us on a memorable kayaking experience, discussing the area's rich wildlife and historical past. The town's off-season charm is anything but dull, with wildlife watching and lively community events like oyster roasts and art strolls. Join us as we unravel the magic of Onancock, where history, art, and nature come together to form one of Virginia’s Adventure Towns. Let’s Go! This is part 2 of a two-part episode. Check your podcast listening app for part 1 of this feature on Onancock. 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: The Nature Conservancy Mentioned in this Episode: Connect with Mary and Bill: Burnham Guides I 757-710-5137 I mary@burnhamguides.com Experience Onancock Eastern Shore, VA Holly Cove Charter Sunset Tour with Captain Chris Guvernator I 757-650-5097 Onancock Sailing Adventures with Captain Tom Bunino I 757-710-3658 1890 Spinning Wheel B&B The Charlotte Hotel & Restaurant The Inn at Onancock Maurice Inn Onancock Eateries Onancock Shops Onancock Art Galleries Onancock Events and Attractions Onancock Outdoor Attractions Virginia Water Trails – Eastern Shore Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Contact show host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

What if you could explore a destination that's off the beaten path yet brimming with natural beauty and cultural treasures? Discover the hidden gem of historic Onancock on Virginia’s Eastern Shore as we set sail with ecotour guides Mary and Bill Burnham, owners of Burnham Guides paddling shop. Our guests share their insider knowledge of this waterfront town with historical architecture, a thriving arts scene, and the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures like kayaking, biking, fishing, and sailing. Paddle your way through history and nature on Onancock Creek, where Mary and Bill guide us on a memorable kayaking experience, discussing the area's rich wildlife and historical past. The town's off-season charm is anything but dull, with wildlife watching and lively community events like oyster roasts and art strolls. Join us as we unravel the magic of Onancock, where history, art, and nature come together to form one of Virginia’s Adventure Towns. 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 Advertisers: The Nature Conservancy Mentioned in this Episode: Connect with Mary and Bill: Burnham Guides I 757-710-5137 I mary@burnhamguides.com Experience Onancock Eastern Shore, VA Holly Cove Charter Sunset Tour with Captain Chris Guvernator I 757-650-5097 Onancock Sailing Adventures with Captain Tom Bunino I 757-710-3658 1890 Spinning Wheel B&B The Charlotte Hotel & Restaurant The Inn at Onancock Maurice Inn Onancock Eateries Onancock Shops Onancock Art Galleries Onancock Events and Attractions Onancock Outdoor Attractions Virginia Water Trails – Eastern Shore Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Contact show host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

In part 2 of this two-part episode, I’ll share highlights from my latest newsletter, featuring discounts on backpacking and first aid gear. We’ll wrap up with a complete list of everything included in my cabin stay bag, to help you prepare for your own park visit. In case you missed Part 1, Join me for a spine-tingling episode filled with spooky stories from a haunted hike—perfect for those who love a good thrill! We’ll catch up on my recent adventures, including a rescheduled trip to Onancock, one of Virginia’s Adventure Towns. Plus, we’ll dive into your fan mail, so keep those messages coming by clicking on “Send Jessica a Text Message!” in your show notes. Let’s Go! Follow VAOA Podcast: Website I 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 Advertisers: Visit Harrisonburg Mentioned in this Episode: Virginia State Parks Cabin Reservations Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Contact show host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

Join me for a spine-tingling episode filled with spooky stories from a haunted hike— perfect for those who love a good thrill! Plus, we’ll dive into your fan mail, so keep those messages coming by clicking on “Send Jessica a Text Message!” in your show notes. Tune in next week for part 2 when we’ll catch up on my recent adventures, including a rescheduled trip to Onancock, one of Virginia’s Adventure Towns. I’ll share highlights from my latest newsletter, featuring discounts on backpacking and first aid gear. We’ll wrap up with a complete list of everything included in my cabin stay bag, to help you prepare for your own park visit. Let’s Go! Follow VAOA Podcast: Website I 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 Advertisers: Visit Harrisonburg Mentioned in this Episode: Virginia State Parks Cabin Reservations Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Contact show host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

We’re slithering into the fascinating world of Virginia’s snakes, equipping you with practical tips to enjoy the great outdoors while respecting these often-misunderstood creatures. In Part 2 of this two-part episode, Caroline Seitz of the Virginia Herpetological Society, helps us dispel common myths and misconceptions while broadening our understanding and appreciation of our native species. Caroline tackles listener questions about safety measures and snake behavior, offering practical advice for snake encounters, so you can hit the trails with confidence. Let’s Go! Don’t miss part 1 of this two-part episode. Last week, Caroline covered how many species of snakes are native to Virginia and which are venomous, our most common species throughout the state, the difference between venomous and poisonous, and whether hikers should be concerned about encountering a snake on the trail. Follow VAOA Podcast: Website I 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 Advertisers: Visit Harrisonburg Mentioned in this Episode: Virginia Herpetological Society Book: Guide to Snakes and Lizards of Virginia Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Contact show host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

We’re slithering into the fascinating world of Virginia’s snakes, equipping you with practical tips to enjoy the great outdoors while respecting these often-misunderstood creatures. In Part 1 of this two-part episode, Caroline Seitz of the Virginia Herpetological Society, helps us dispel common myths and misconceptions while broadening our understanding and appreciation of our native species. Caroline tackles listener questions about safety measures and snake behavior, offering practical advice for snake encounters, so you can hit the trails with confidence. Let’s Go! Join us next week when Caroline tackles more listener questions, such as “Will pants protect against snake bites?, How far north can pythons spread?, Should we carry antivenom while hiking or backpacking?, What to do if you’re bit in a remote area?, and "Is anything still alive when it gets into that snake belly?” Follow VAOA Podcast: Website I 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 Advertisers: Visit Harrisonburg Mentioned in this Episode: Virginia Herpetological Society Book: Guide to Snakes and Lizards of Virginia Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Contact show host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

Get ready to uncover the hidden gems of Southwest Virginia's scenic hiking destinations. Tyler Mullins of the Pine Mountain Trail Conference, takes us on a journey highlighting the must-do trails of Breaks Park set against the majestic Russell Fork Gorge. Then it’s on to the lesser-known but equally captivating Pine Mountain Scenic Trail that weaves along the Virginia-Kentucky border. In Part 2 of this two-part series, Tyler continues our journey on the Pine Mountain Trail. This developing long-distance path offers unique opportunities for solitude and scenic beauty away from the crowds. We discuss the mesmerizing Jenny Falls, the panoramic 360-degree views from Birch Knob Fire Tower, and a unique ecosystem that makes this region a true outdoor paradise. Don’t miss last week’s Part 1 where Tyler entices us with trails inside Breaks Park that include awe-inspiring sandstone cliffs, unique rock formations, serene lakes, and stunning vistas. Let’s Go! Follow VAOA Podcast: Website I 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 Advertisers: Visit Buchanan Mentioned in this Episode: Breaks Interstate Park Breaks Park Hiking Trails Episode 55. Appalachia’s Greatest Conservation Story: Elk Restoration in Southwest in Virginia Episode 31. Rock Climbing in Breaks Park and Southwest Virginia Pine Mountain Trail Conference Birch Knob Fire Tower Pine Mountain Scenic Trail Contact Tyler Mullins: tylermarkmullins@gmail.com Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Contact show host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

Get ready to uncover the hidden gems of Southwest Virginia's scenic hiking destinations. Tyler Mullins of the Pine Mountain Trail Conference, takes us on a journey highlighting the must-do trails of Breaks Park set against the majestic Russell Fork Gorge. Then it’s on to the lesser-known but equally captivating Pine Mountain Scenic Trail that weaves along the Virginia-Kentucky border. In Part 1 of this two-part series, Tyler entices us with trails inside Breaks Park that include awe-inspiring sandstone cliffs, unique rock formations, serene lakes, and stunning vistas. Tune in next week as Tyler continues our journey on the Pine Mountain Trail. This developing long-distance path offers unique opportunities for solitude and scenic beauty away from the crowds. We discuss the mesmerizing Jenny Falls, the panoramic 360-degree views from Birch Knob Fire Tower, and a unique ecosystem that makes this region a true outdoor paradise. Let’s Go! Follow VAOA Podcast: Website I 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 Advertisers: Visit Buchanan Mentioned in this Episode: Breaks Interstate Park Breaks Park Hiking Trails Episode 55. Appalachia’s Greatest Conservation Story: Elk Restoration in Southwest in Virginia Episode 31. Rock Climbing in Breaks Park and Southwest Virginia Pine Mountain Trail Conference Birch Knob Fire Tower Pine Mountain Scenic Trail Contact Tyler Mullins: tylermarkmullins@gmail.com Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Contact show host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

Hi Friends, If you’re like me, you’ve been watching the news about the devastating aftermath of Hurricane Helene and wondering what you can do to help. Our communities in Southwest Virginia have been hit hard and many of the places we know and love will be impacted for years to come. What you’re about to hear is a conversation I had with Amanda Livingston, Director of Tourism in Smyth County Virginia. Smyth is located in between Abingdon and Wytheville and is home to a portion of Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, as well as our first state park, Hungry Mother. The charming small town of Marion is a trail town in the center of Smyth County, where thousands of Appalachian Trail hikers stop to rest and refuel. Amanda shares how the storm has impacted the communities of southwest Virginia, provides us with an update on the status of our trails, parks, and public lands, and most importantly, she emphasis the power we have as an outdoor community to help by simply doing what we love… visiting and enjoying the incredible outdoor assets Appalachia provides. And please do share this episode with your friends and neighbors and suggest they plan a visit when Southwest Virginia is ready to host visitors again. Together, we can make a difference for our neighbors, right here in Virginia. Donate Now: United Way of SWVA Smyth County Community Foundation Check the status of trails, parks, and public lands: Smyth County Tourism Appalachian Trail Virginia Creeper Trail Mount Rogers National Recreation Area Virginia State Parks Piedmont Appalachian Trail Club Mount Rogers Appalachian Trail Club Virginia Department of Emergency Management Visit Southwest Virginia Follow VAOA Podcast: Website I Instagram I Facebook I Newsletter Sign Up Support the Show! Buy Me A Coffee Shop the Virginia Outdoor Adventures Merch Store! Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Contact show host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

I'm back for a fifth season of Virginia Outdoor Adventures! In the Season 5 Trailer, get a sneak peek of new episodes, upcoming fall festivals and events where you can meet me in person, giveaways for podcast merch, new features such as Fan Mail texting, and shout outs to my listeners. And don’t forget, you can win a $50 gift card to River Rock Outfitter by completing the listener survey. START THE SURVEY NOW. Follow VAOA Podcast: Website I 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 Advertisers: Explore Middlesex Episode 58. Virginia's Adventure Towns: Urbanna's River Life Visit Harrisonburg Mentioned in this Episode: Country View Lodging Virginia State Parks Trail Quest Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Contact show host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

Countdown to take off. Season 5 launches in just three days! In the Trailer episode, you’ll get a sneak peek of what’s to come in Season 5, upcoming fall festivals and events where you can meet me in person, giveaways for podcast merch, new features such as Fan Mail texting, and shout outs to my listeners. Last chance to win a $50 gift card to River Rock Outfitter by completing the listener survey. START THE SURVEY NOW. Follow VAOA Podcast: Website I 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 Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Contact show host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

Get ready, Friends... The Season 5 Trailer drops one week from today! You’ll get a sneak peek of what’s to come in Season 5, upcoming fall festivals and events where you can meet me in person, giveaways for podcast merch, new features such as Fan Mail texting, and shout outs to my listeners. And don’t forget, you can win a $50 gift card to River Rock Outfitter by completing the listener survey. START THE SURVEY NOW. Follow VAOA Podcast: Website I 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 Send Jessica a Text Message Support the show Contact show host, Jessica Bowser: Send Jessica a Text Message or email at jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

“Our goal for Wandering Waters is to get people out and exploring our parks, either on a stand up paddle board, a kayak, or a canoe and seeing our parks from a different perspective. You can go to a park like Hungry Mother and hike up to the top of Molly's Knob and get that giant panoramic scenic view. But then you can come back down and either rent a boat or bring your own and get out on the water and see that park from a whole different view.” -Sammy Zambon, Virginia State Parks The wandering waters of Virginia connect communities and people across landscapes and through time. From mountain streams and lakes to tidal rivers and bays, the waters of Virginia provide an endless source of exploration. Sammy Zambon, an avid paddler and Visitor Experience Specialist for Virginia State Parks, introduces us to Wandering Waters Paddle Quest, a program that will have you exploring our state parks from a new perspective. Tranquil lakes and lazy stretches of river await via self-guided and ranger-led adventures. From serene sunsets to exciting river rapids, grab your paddle and hit the water at a Virginia State Park. Let’s Go! Follow VAOA Podcast: Website I 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 Advertisers: Let’s Go Adventures at Virginia State Parks Buy Me A Coffee Explore Middlesex Mentioned in this Episode: Wandering Waters Paddle Quest Virginia State Parks Trail Quest Episode 56. Let’s Go Adventures – Camping, Hiking, Kayaking, Fly Fishing, Archery, and Orienteering with Diego Riffle and Sarah King, Virginia State Parks Connect with Sammy: Sammy.zambon@dcr.virginia.gov Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Contact show host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

“For us to get to Grey’s Point campground, we had to pass through Urbanna. So one day I made a left just to explore and I was like, 'Wow! It’s so beautiful!' The boats and the waterfront, dining and nice houses. It’s this vibe that you just have to experience for yourself.” – Rivah Sistah Patricia Clement Welcome to the charming port town of Urbanna, in the heart of Virginia’s river realm. Step aboard as we navigate Urbanna’s river lifestyle with Rivah Sistah Patricia Clement. From fishing and boating, to paddling and crabbing, Patricia shares her journey from her first experience waterfront camping to getting hooked on this small town’s big adventures. Together, we’ll share why Urbanna is a must-visit for seafood lovers and history buffs alike. Whether you’re seeking the solace of a sunset paddle or hoping to reel in a big catch, get ready to shuck your stress and hit the open water. This is your passport to Virginia's Adventure Towns. Let’s Go! Follow VAOA Podcast: Website I 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 Advertisers: The Chesapeake Inn Mentioned in this Episode: Explore Middlesex App Visit Middlesex County Boating Safety and Education The Chesapeake Inn Grey’s Point Campground Bethpage Camp-resort Urbanna Town Marina Kayak Rental Kiosk WC Sportfishing Charter All Dining Options Wake Beach Waterman’s Park Heritage Trail Holly Point Nature Park (Deltaville Maritime Museum) Dragon Run Urbanna Oyster Festival Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Contact show host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com

"Everybody has a favorite place in Virginia like a trail, a sunset, a beach, a lake, or a river. Everyone has a place that's special to them and everyone is invested in trying to make sure that it's there for their kids and their grandkids. And that's such a unifier. When you're on the trail with people, you're not talking about politics, you're talking about the joy that you're taking in from the surroundings and that is so powerful. That is something about Virginia and Virginians - the unifying nature of our natural beauty and how it brings people together.” – Senator Tim Kaine Discover the “faraway nearby” of Virginia’s wild landscapes in an intimate conversation with Senator Tim Kaine, who shares his introspective journey traversing 1,200 miles of our commonwealth by foot, bike, and canoe. His story is an invigorating blend of history, nature, and community, as well as personal challenges that have enriched his life and helped him stay grounded as a public servant. Senator Kaine’s humorous recollections, including his trail name 'Dog Bowl' and his affectionately named canoe 'Old Raggedy,' add a lighthearted layer to his profound reflections on a life outside. We discuss how his new book, "Walk Ride Paddle," is a love letter to Virginia and a call for all of us to connect with nature. Let’s Go! Follow VAOA Podcast: Website I 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 Advertisers: Visit Campbell County James River Association FarOut Virginia Nature Triathlon Mentioned in this Episode: Buy the Book, find resources, and view the book tour schedule at WalkRidePaddle.com Episode 27 Hiking, Cycling, and Paddling the Virginia Nature Triathlon with Senator Tim Kaine (March 2022) Episode 47 Journey Along the James: Paddling, Camping, and Exploring Virginia’s Iconic River with Charles Johnson, James River Association (June 2023) Virginia DWR boat access sites James River Association camping and paddling resources Fan Mail - Send Jessica a Text Message Contact show host, Jessica Bowser: jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com