Hiking
-
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…
-
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…
-
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…
-
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…
-
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,…
-
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…
-
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…
-
Backyard Escapes: Bear Creek State Park
Sometimes I forget how much adventure is hiding right in my backyard, and Bear Creek State Park was a perfect reminder. Tucked inside Cumberland State Forest, it’s a peaceful spot for hiking, swimming, kayaking, fishing, or just setting up camp and letting the woods work their magic. Trails to Wander Bear Creek has a handful…
-
How to Plan a Hiking Itinerary (Without Overthinking It)
If you’re itching to hit the trail but staring blankly at the map, wondering where do I even start? You’re not alone. Planning a hiking itinerary can feel a bit overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to balance safety, scenery, and not overpacking. But with a little prep (and maybe some coffee), you can map out…
-
6 Outdoor Adventures to Explore in Central Virginia
One of the things I love most about living in Central Virginia is how easy it is to find adventure right outside your door. Whether you’re into hiking, biking, camping, or just wandering through the woods, there’s no shortage of places to explore. Here are six of my favorite ways to get outside and soak…
-
Old Rag Mountain: A Scrambly, Unforgettable Challenge
Old Rag has been on my hiking list for a long time, and good reason. It’s one of the most iconic hikes in Shenandoah National Park, and once you’ve done it, you understand why. Tucked near Etlan, Virginia, Old Rag Mountain offers 360-degree summit views and a 9.4-mile loop that’s equal parts grit, scramble, and…
-
Trail Notes: Kemper Park at Monticello
One of the best parts about living in Central Virginia is how many trails are practically in my backyard. Kemper Park, tucked right off Thomas Jefferson Parkway in Charlottesville, is one of those hidden gems. It’s not far from the city, but it feels like a quiet little pocket of peace, especially if you just…