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The Trail with Horses, Cows, and Not Much Else: Our Blue Ridge Railway Walk
Zina and I are always up for a trail day, especially one with a name like the Blue Ridge Railway Trail. It sounds like it should deliver adventure, right? Old rail ties. Scenic bridges. Maybe a touch of ghost train lore. Instead, we got… horses, cows, and the kind of straight-line walking that makes you…
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How I Learned to Hike Solo (And Why You Might Want To)
There’s this weird moment on a solo hike when you realize you’re the only one for miles who knows where you are. At first, it’s terrifying. Then, it’s wildly freeing. I didn’t set out to become a solo hiker. I waited for the right time, the right moment to somehow magically get other people to…
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6 Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures in Central Virginia (That Are Totally Worth the Detour)
Some of the best adventures aren’t marked by big signs or crowded parking lots, they’re found in the places where curiosity outpaces comfort, and a little dirt under your fingernails is just part of the plan. Central Virginia has no shortage of these kinds of spots. If you’re craving something unexpected, something that reminds you…
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Don’t Wing It: What to Put in Your Hiking Itinerary
A good hike can shake loose your soul in all the right ways, but only if you show up prepared. Whether you’re brand new to the trail or you’ve been wandering the woods longer than your knees would like to admit, a clear itinerary isn’t just helpful, it’s essential. Here’s what I include in mine…
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6 Historic Adventures in Central Virginia That Bring the Past to Life
One of my favorite things about living in Central Virginia is how history is just woven into the land. You don’t have to go far to stumble across a story from the past, sometimes it’s in a landmark, sometimes in the dirt beneath your boots. If you love a mix of old-world charm, scenic views,…
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6 Outdoor Adventures You Can Have Right in Central Virginia’s Cities
You don’t always have to head deep into the woods to find fresh air and a little adventure. Some of the best outdoor moments I’ve had have been right in the middle of the city, those little escapes that remind you nature doesn’t have to be remote to be powerful. Here are six ways to…
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Camping at the Grand Canyon of the South: Breaks Interstate Park
Tucked away where Virginia meets Kentucky, Breaks Interstate Park is often called the Grand Canyon of the South, and honestly, it lives up to the name. With dramatic cliffs, winding trails, and views that stop you in your tracks, this place is a dream for campers, hikers, and anyone needing a good dose of nature….
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Chasing Waterfalls in Central Virginia
If you’ve spent any time in Central Virginia, you already know we’re spoiled when it comes to natural beauty. Between the Blue Ridge Parkway and Shenandoah National Park, we’ve got a front-row seat to some of the most peaceful, awe-inspiring waterfalls in the region. Whether you’re out for a full-on adventure or just a quiet…
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6 Refreshing Ways to Cool Off in Central Virginia
Summer heat showed up early this year, and when it gets muggy in Central Virginia, I start looking for any excuse to get near the water. Luckily, we’ve got plenty of spots to cool off without needing to hop on a plane or even drive too far. Whether you’re into paddling, floating, or just dipping…
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Sun Safety Tips for Hiking and Camping
I love being outside, whether I’m out on the trail with Zina at sunrise or unwinding by the campfire after a long day of exploring. But let’s be real: that sun can sneak up on you. A great hike can turn into a rough recovery if you’re not mindful about sun safety. Sunburns aren’t just…
