Hi Friends,Just popping on to let you know that there won’t be a new episode of Virginia Outdoor Adventures this week. I’m on a 16-day, action-packed road trip across the Commonwealth where I’ll be touring new state parks, attending festivals, exploring Wildlife Management Areas, meeting new podcast guests, scouting local dining and lodging options, collaborating with park advocates, and even giving a keynote address at a tourism conference. And, of course, I’ll be hiking, biking, camping, and even caving around Virginia. If you want to follow my adventures and get a peek at behind-the-scenes podcast production, keep an eye on my Instagram and Facebook Stories. I’ll be sharing the highlights of my journey and even some exciting new content I’m developing for a brand-new episode series.Virginia Outdoor Adventures will be back on Tuesday, April 4th so stay tuned. Until then, Adventure On.Follow VAOA Podcast:Website I Instagram I Facebook Support the Show: Buy Me A Coffee VAOA Podcast is Sponsored By:·       Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources I DWR Shop·       Breaks Interstate Park·       Visit Mecklenburg·       Virginia Association for Parks·       Virginia State ParksSupport the show

“You get this intimate view of something that you don't get to see too often, and you kind of get to know the birds and what to expect from them. You get sucked in. It's like nature documentaries and I think it has the same appeal. You get that here in downtown Richmond, which is probably the last place people expect to see it.” - Meagan Thomas, Virginia Department of Wildlife ResourcesImagine taking a peek at aquatic life below the surface of the James River or watching Peregrine Falcons hatch atop a Richmond skyscraper. The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources’ live-streaming cameras offer a glimpse into the wonderful world of Virginia’s wildlife, from restored elk habitat in the mountains to the tidal marshes of the coast. Meagan Thomas, Watchable Wildlife Biologist, describes what makes these wildlife cams so popular, how you can contribute as a community scientist, and why you won’t want to miss a moment of eggs hatching, fish migrating, elk bugling, and so much more. Let’s Go!Follow VAOA Podcast:Website I Instagram I Facebook Support the Show: Buy Me A Coffee VAOA Podcast is Sponsored By:·       Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources I DWR Shop·       Breaks Interstate Park·       Visit Mecklenburg·       Virginia Association for Parks·       Virginia State Parks Advertisers:·       Blue Ridge Outdoor Magazine Mentioned in this Episode:DWR Wildlife CamsDWR Wildlife Management AreasRichmond Falcon CamFalcon Cam BlogSubmit Marsh Cam sightings on iNaturalistDWR on Instagram I Facebook I Website I Notes from the Field BlogSupport the show

“As I stared at the cloud, I realized it wasn’t really a cloud. Those were all stars. It was very humbling for a 12-year-old to be looking up at the Milky Way. It really set me back on my feet to realize how small I was on this planet, and how little our planet was compared to all those stars up in the sky.” - Jayme Hanzak, Chapel Hill Astronomical and Observational SocietyWhen was the last time you looked up at the night sky? There are few experiences quite like stargazing that can help us realize our place in the vast and brilliant universe. Virginia is home to five officially designated dark sky parks where stargazing is exceptional, and the night sky is protected for generations to come. Jayme Hanzak, of the Chapel Hill Astronomical and Observational Society, describes the important role dark skies play in human health and the health of our planet. Jayme also shares night sky viewing opportunities across Virginia, including the semiannual Star Party at Staunton River State Park that attracts stargazers from the entire east coast and beyond. Get ready to experience a state park after dark. Let’s Go!*Cover Image by Larry W. BrownFollow VAOA Podcast:Website I Instagram I Facebook Support the Show: Buy Me A Coffee VAOA Podcast is Sponsored By:·       Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources I DWR Shop·       Breaks Interstate Park·       Visit Mecklenburg·       Virginia Association for Parks·       Virginia State Parks Advertisers:·       Blue Ridge Outdoor Magazine Mentioned in this Episode:Staunton River State ParkVirginia State Parks' International Dark Sky ParksRappahannock County ParkInternational Dark Skies AssociationChapel Hill Astronomical and Observational SocietyNorthern Virginia Astronomy Club, Sky Meadows State ParkRoanoke Valley Astronomical Society, Natural Bridge State ParkCrewe Astronomy Club, James River State ParkSouthern Gap Outdoor AdventureAstronomy Clubs in VirginiaPlanetariums in VirginiaObservatories in VirginiaSupport the show

“When the whales come up for a breath, they're not out at the surface very long, and you're intently searching for it. Then suddenly, there it is! I don't think it is possible to not get excited, especially the first time when you see a whale surface.” – Mike Mizell, Virginia AquariumImagine the largest mammals on earth just mere miles from the most populated city in Virginia. Acrobatic humpback whales, enormous fin whales, endangered right whales, and playful bottlenose dolphins all spend the winter just offshore from Virginia Beach. Mike Mizell, Boat Programs Specialist at the Virginia Aquarium, shares some fascinating facts about these marine giants and how you can experience them in their natural habitat. Let’s Go!Follow VAOA Podcast:Website I Facebook I Instagram I TwitterSupport the show: Buy Me A Coffee VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by:Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources I Shop DWR Visit MecklenburgBreaks Interstate ParkVirginia Association for ParksVirginia State Parks Advertisers:Visit the Eastern Shore of VirginiaBlue Ridge Outdoors MagazineMentioned in this Episode:Virginia Aquarium: Website I Instagram I FacebookGo on a Whale Watching TourEmail Mike Mizell mwmizell@virginiaaquarium.comSupport the show

“One of my favorite parts about Virginia's outdoors is that a lot of places aren't that mainstream or heavily publicized, so they require some adventuring, which can make for great experiences, stories and memories.”  – Grant Price, Blue Ridge Mountain GuidesIce climbing in Virginia? You may not think of the South as a destination for ice climbing, but when the conditions are right, the frozen crags in the higher elevations of the Blue Ridge Mountains might be the best kept secret in Virginia. Grant Price, of Blue Ridge Mountain Guides, explains why ice climbing is more accessible than you might think. Grant describes the experience of ascending frozen formations, the type of gear required, and how to access ice climbing through guides and clubs, so you can add this winter adventure to your local bucket list. Let’s Go!Follow VAOA Podcast:Website I Facebook I Instagram I TwitterSupport the show: Buy Me A Coffee VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by:Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources I Shop DWR I Virginia Wildlife Grant ProgramVisit MecklenburgBreaks Interstate ParkVirginia Association for ParksVirginia State Parks Advertisers:Visit the Eastern Shore of VirginiaVisit HarrisonburgBlue Ridge Outdoors MagazineMentioned in this Episode:Connect with Grant Price and Blue Ridge Mountain Guides:Website I Instagram I Facebook I TwitterPotomac Appalachian Trail Club Mountaineering SectionAmerican Alpine Club I Washington DC Section I Richmond ChapterGarmin In-Reach Mini 2Support the show

“Moving on taught me to climb mountains not because they are easy, but because they are worth it. When I summit a mountain, that is when I feel most alive. I imagine that’s how you might feel too.”  - Jessica Chenard, Her Hike CollectiveThose of us who love to hike, know the benefits it brings to our lives. Hiking reduces stress and anxiety, while allowing us to clear our minds and reconnect with ourselves and nature. Jessica Chenard, Founder of the Virginia-based hiking community, Her Hike Collective, shares her journey of hiking to heal after a personal tragedy. Believing that grief demands action, she utilized the outdoors as a lifeline and found comfort and connection on the trail. Her new memoir titled, Her Hike, is Jessica’s story of coping in the Blue Ridge and was written to help others begin their own journeys summiting mountains. Jessica’s passion has created a community of hikers who are turning to the outdoors, and each other, to find healing. Let’s Go!Follow VAOA Podcast:Website I Facebook I Instagram I TwitterSupport the show: Buy Me A Coffee VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by:Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources I Shop DWRVisit MecklenburgBreaks Interstate ParkVirginia Association for ParksVirginia State Parks Advertisers:Visit the Eastern Shore of VirginiaVisit HarrisonburgBlue Ridge Outdoors MagazineMentioned in this Episode: *Support the Show with a Membership and Receive the Full List of Show Notes LinksConnect with Jessica and Her Hike Collective: Website I Her Hike Collective on Instagram I Jessica Chenard on InstagramBuy the book, Her Hike: Violet Fox Bookshop, Country BookshelfHumpback Rocks HikeRose River Falls HikeApple Orchard Falls HikeSupport the show

“Our mission is to get people outdoors. It's to offer individuals of all abilities, no matter physical, cognitive, or economic situation, the opportunity to experience the outdoors with the surrounding community. We empower people's abilities through outdoor adventure.” - Shep Roeper, Beyond BoundariesAdventure is for Everyone. The Richmond-based non-profit, Beyond Boundaries, specializes in guiding outdoor adventures for participants with disabilities, veterans, at-risk youth, and recovery programs. Co-founder and Director, Shep Roeper, describes opportunities for individuals of all ability levels to experience the outdoors through kayaking, fishing, climbing, whitewater rafting, boating, hiking, and more. Shep also shares some of his most memorable moments, the positive impact on the local community, the connection that comes from volunteering, and how you can play a part in providing adventure for others. Let’s Go!Follow VAOA Podcast:Website I Facebook I Instagram I TwitterSupport the show: Buy Me A Coffee VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by:Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources I Shop DWRVisit MecklenburgBreaks Interstate ParkVirginia Association for Parks Advertisers:Visit the Eastern Shore of VirginiaBlue Ridge Outdoors MagazineMentioned in this Episode:*Support the Show with a Membership and Receive the Full List of Show Notes LinksConnect with Beyond Boundaries: Website I Facebook I InstagramVirginia Wildlife Grant ProgramEpisode 32. Exploring the Wild at Wildlife Management Areas with Lisa GhidottiSportable Peak ExperiencesTriangle Rock ClubJames River Park System, RichmondHardywood Park Craft BreweryVäsen BrewingSupport the show

“Caves are otherworldly. You have the experience of exploration where you don't know what's around the next corner. One of the prime draws to caving is that you get to explore places that nobody's ever been before.” – Dave Socky, Blue Ridge GrottoImagine a hidden, underground world of stunning geologic wonders that few others have experienced before. Stalagmites and stalactites, streams and waterfalls, and beautiful stone and crystal formations are beneath our feet. Dave Socky, an experienced caver with the Blue Ridge Grotto, describes the otherworldly experience of caving, safety precautions to take in the subterranean landscape, important conservation considerations, and how to appropriately gain access to some of Virginia’s 4,000 wild caves. Dave also shares an incredible recent discovery of an ice age-era Cheetah skeleton from a cave in Southwest Virginia. Let’s Go!Follow VAOA Podcast:Website I Facebook I Instagram I TwitterSupport the show: Buy Me A Coffee VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by:Virginia Association for ParksVirginia Department of Wildlife Resources I Shop DWRVisit MecklenburgBreaks Interstate Park Advertisers:Visit the Eastern Shore of VirginiaBlue Ridge Outdoors MagazineMentioned in this Episode:*Support the Show with a Membership and Receive the Full List of Show Notes LinksConnect with Dave Socky: YouTube I Blue Ridge Grotto I Facebook I WebsiteFind Your Local Caving CommunityGuide to Responsible CavingThe Virginia Cave and Karst TrailVirginia Natural Heritage Karst ProgramTen Questions About Caves and the Virginia Cave BoardCave Conservancy of the VirginiasRecovery of Petra – Video by Dave SockyCaving team discovers, retrieves rare ice age-era cat skeleton from Southwest Virginia cave, Cardinal NewsPetra - Virginia Museum of Natural History Commercial Caverns in VirginiaButler Cave Conservation SocietySupport the show

“I've never experienced anything in my life that gets me so connected to nature and earth. You're feeling the way that the water is pushing you, you are going with it, you are looking for it, and it's such an amazing feeling of connection and presence.” -Berkley Nestler, James River WomenNicknamed “River City,” Richmond is situated on the mighty James where the hard bedrock of the Piedmont Region gives way to the sandy sediments of the Coastal Plain. This geographic feature, known as the Fall Line, drops 100 feet in 7 miles, creating rushing rapids that attract whitewater adventure seekers to the capital city. Jen Jimenez and Berkley Nestler of James River Women are on a mission to make whitewater paddling sports accessible by providing a safe community for beginners to learn and grow. Jen and Berkely describe the experience of whitewater paddling, tips on safety and gear, why Richmond is an ideal location for paddlers of any ability level, and how to get your adrenaline rush without leaving the big city. Let’s Go!Follow VAOA Podcast:Website I Facebook I Instagram I TwitterSupport the show: Buy Me A Coffee VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by:Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources I Shop DWRVisit MecklenburgBreaks Interstate Park Advertisers:Visit the Eastern Shore of VirginiaBlue Ridge Outdoors Magazine Mentioned in this Episode:*Support the Show with a Membership and Receive the Full List of Show Notes LinksConnect with James River Women: Instagram I Facebook I Email: jrw@jroc.netEpisode 14. Empowering the 'Wiser Female Adventurer' with Linda and Mandi, She Opts OutRiverside OutfittersVirginia DWR Grant ProgramSupport the show

“We all have ancestors who lived really close to nature, who found their food in the wild. This is our birthright and I get really excited when I can lead people back to that heritage.” -Tim MacWelch, Advanced Survival TrainingOnce used by our ancestors as a means of survival, foraging for wild edible plants is surging in popularity among outdoor enthusiasts. Whether it’s to collect food, maintain a healthy lifestyle, learn about native plants, or just spend more time outside, foraging is a way to connect with the landscape and carry on a tradition that dates to the beginning of human existence. Tim MacWelch, owner of Advanced Survival Training, covers the basics of foraging, including how to safely identify plants, examples of common wild edibles, where and when to forage, conservation techniques, and precautions to take before consuming your finds. You’ll want to have your notepad ready because this episode is chock-full of information to get you started in the world of foraging. Let’s Go! Follow VAOA Podcast:Website I Facebook I Instagram I Twitter Support the show: Buy Me A Coffee  VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by:Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources I Shop DWRVisit MecklenburgBreaks Interstate Park Advertisers:Hennessy Hammock Mentioned in this Episode:*Support the Show with a Membership and Receive the Full List of Show Notes LinksConnect with Tim MacWelch: Website I Instagram Advanced Survival TrainingSeasonal Wild Edible Plants Course DescriptionPeterson Field Guide to Edible Wild PlantsArticle by Virginia DWR: Storing Up for Winter with ForageablesMoraknivSupport the show

“Old Rag is a particularly memorable and rewarding hike. We’re there to help protect this cherished natural and cultural resource, and protect people at the same time, because we want everyone to enjoy the park.” – Gabby Dreyfus, Old Rag Mountain Stewards Often referred to as one of the best hikes on the east coast, Old Rag Mountain is the most popular hike in Shenandoah National Park. Highlights of this hike include boulder scrambling and spectacular views of the Shenandoah Valley. But this hike is no casual walk in the park. Old Rag is a challenging hike that requires preparation and planning to enjoy safely. Old Rag Mountain Stewards is a volunteer organization that helps hikers understand how to protect themselves and the resources on Old Rag Mountain. Vice President, Gabby Dreyfus, shares her expertise in preparedness, safety, and stewardship, so you can make the most of this epic Virginia adventure. Let’s Go!Follow VAOA Podcast:Website I Facebook I Instagram I TwitterSupport the show: Buy Me A CoffeeVAOA Podcast is Sponsored by:Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources I Shop DWRVisit MecklenburgBreaks Interstate ParkAdvertisers:Hennessy HammockMentioned in this Episode:*Support the Show with a Membership and Receive the Full List of Show Notes LinksOld Rag Mountain Stewards: Website I Instagram I Facebook I Twitter I Volunteer I DonateEmail: info@oldragmountainstewards.orgOld Rag Mountain Hike, Shenandoah National ParkSupport the show

In this Season 3 Trailer, my friend, Jacqueline, better known as RVA Hiker Girl, joins me for a sneak peek into upcoming episodes. Jacqueline and I discuss the diversity of outdoor recreation activities in Virginia, the connectedness of the outdoor community, and the listener input I received that led to the selection of new content for Season 3, which launches one week from today on October 18.Follow VAOA Podcast:Website I Facebook I Instagram I Twitter Send Questions, Comments, and Suggestions: Jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com Support the show: Buy Me A Coffee VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by:·        Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources I Shop DWR·        Visit Mecklenburg·        Breaks Interstate Park Mentioned in this Episode:*Support the Show with a Membership and Receive the Full List of Show Notes Links Connect with Jacqueline, RVA Hiker Girl: YouTube I Instagram I TwitterEpisode 8 of VAOA Podcast with RVA Hiker GirlBlue Ridge Tunnel VideoVirginia’s Covered BridgesVirginia’s Fire TowersVirginia State Parks’ International Dark Sky ParksVirginia State Parks Trail QuestSupport the show

In this Bonus Episode, I’m sharing a guest appearance I made on The VML Voice, the official podcast of the Virginia Municipal League. I speak with the Host, Rob Bullington, about simple things you can do to make the most of your Virgina getaways. If you enjoy this episode, be sure to read the featured article I authored in this month’s edition of Virginia Town & City Magazine, entitled, How to Recreate in Viriginia.Virgnia Town & City Magazine ArticleFollow Virginia Outdoor Adventures Podcast:Website I Facebook I Instagram I TwitterSend Questions, Comments, and Suggestions: Jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.comSupport the show

In this Bonus Episode, I speak with Brian Livingston, Author of the new book, The Habits of Squirrels. Drawing upon his own experience completing a thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail, Brian wrote this fictional tale about a retired mailman who uses a thru-hike to assess his life, career, and family relationships. Brian shares a sneak peek into his book, as well as his insights and advice for anyone considering a thru-hike of their own. Connect with Brian Livingston:Website I Instagram I Facebook I Twitter I Buy the BookFollow Virginia Outdoor Adventures Podcast:Website I Facebook I Instagram I TwitterSend Questions, Comments, and Suggestions: Jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.comSupport the show

I recently asked you, my listeners, what topics you would like to learn more about in Season 3. One of the most popular responses I received was meal prep and how to pack food for outdoor adventures. I asked Aaron Owens Mayhew, registered dietician, and founder of Backcountry Foodie, to give us a brief introduction to prepping for the backcountry, including considerations for nutrition, pack weight, ease, and expense. Aaron even shares one of her most popular recipes.Please let me know what you think of this bonus episode and if you’d be interested in a longer, more detailed episode in Season 3. Send me your feedback by messaging me on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter, or email me at Jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com. Connect with Aaron:Instagram I Facebook I YouTube I WebsiteEmail: aaron@backcountryfoodie.comFollow Virginia Outdoor Adventures Podcast:Website I Facebook I Instagram I TwitterSend Questions, Comments, and Suggestions: Jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.comSupport the show

In this Bonus Episode, I speak with Tara Fisher, Author of the new book, Virginia is for Adventurers. Inspired by her own adventures around Virginia with her family, Tara wrote the book as a guide for families to explore the Commonwealth while learning about Virginia’s geography and history along the way. As a former fourth grade teacher, I am thrilled that Tara created a wonderful resource that encourages kids and adults to travel to every region of Virginia to explore our parks, natural wonders, and historical landmarks. Tara shares the details of the book, as well as some upcoming Scavenger Hunt events that you and your family can participate in. Be sure to check the show notes for links to the book’s website and social media pages. Connect with Virginia is for Adventurers: Website I Instagram I Scavenger Hunts I Buy the Book Follow Virginia Outdoor Adventures Podcast:Website I Facebook I Instagram I TwitterSend Questions, Comments, and Suggestions: Jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.comSupport the show

“Hike” is a podcast about, you guessed it, hiking. It was created by hikers for hikers and is a place to share stories to inspire others to explore, wander and live. My friend, Lori Prima, is the host of Hike and in this episode, she speaks to two volunteers, Tawyna and Curt Finney, who have been caring for a trail shelter for over 30 years. It’s a fascinating conversation about stewardship, trail etiquette, and changes in the hiking community over the past several decades.  These are topics I’ve had many requests for so I’m grateful to Lori for sharing this episode with us. Tawyna and Curt are members of the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club, which you may recall is the volunteer organization that maintains and protects the Appalachian Trail and other nearby trails in the Mid-Atlantic region, which includes the AT in the northern half of Virginia. More hiking inspiration here in Virginia from Virginia Outdoor Adventures:In Episode 20, Kristen Musselman speaks about her experience hiking and camping fulltime as the Chief Hiking Officer for Devils Backbone Brewing Company. She tells us what is in her pack, shares tips for long distance backpacking, and reveals some of her favorite trails in Virginia.In Episode 29, Erin Gifford, Founder of Go Hike Virginia, speaks about her latest book, Hiking with Kids Virginia, 52 Great Hikes for Families. Erin has been writing about travel and the outdoors for more than a decade and provides all the info you need to plan a winning day hike. Lastly, if you find yourself interested in Lori’s recent series about Appalachia on Hike Podcast, be sure not to miss Episode 31 of Virginia Outdoor Adventures about Rock Climbing in Southwest Virginia with Brad Mathisen and Kyle King from the Central Appalachia Climbers Coalition. The collaborative partnership between climbers and Breaks is playing a role in revitalizing towns and stimulating economic growth, transforming Central Appalachia into a nationally recognized ecotourism destination.Follow Hike Podcast:Blog I Facebook I Instagram I TwitterFollow Virginia Outdoor Adventures Podcast:Website I Facebook I Instagram I TwitterSend Questions, Comments, and Suggestions: Jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.comSupport the show

In this bonus episode, I’m sharing another fantastic Virginia-based podcast called, The Green Tunnel, which is a show about the history of the Appalachian Trail. You may already know that Virginia contains more miles of the Appalachian Trail than any other state, with 544 miles of the trail right here in Virginia. If you’re a history buff like me and you love hiking and the outdoors, this is a show you don’t want to miss. The Green Tunnel is one of my favorite podcasts to enjoy, usually when I’m driving to my next outdoor adventure. It contains interesting, quirky, and fascinating history about the AT in an entertaining, story-telling style show. Many episodes contain rare, never before heard audio of legendary AT hikers and influencers like Benton MacKaye, who dreamed up the whole idea of a multi-state long-distance hiking trail, and Grandma Gatewood, the first woman to thru hike the trail alone. The show also includes contributions by hikers, volunteers, park rangers, and leaders in the trail community. The Green Tunnel Podcast is hosted by my friend, Mills Kelly, who is a professor of history at George Mason University and the Director of the Roy Rosenzweig Center for History and New Media. He has been hiking the AT since 1971 and researching its history since 2016.If you’re looking for more inspiration from the AT here in Virginia, there are two recent episodes of Virginia Outdoor Adventures you might enjoy. In Episode 22, Diana Christopulos from the Roanoke Appalachian Trail Club, talks about hiking McAfee Knob and Virginia’s Triple Crown. She provides insight into what it takes to maintain and preserve the most photographed spot on the entire Appalachian Trail.In Episode 27, Senator Tim Kaine shares his experience completing the Virginia Nature Triathlon, which includes hiking the Virginia portion of the Appalachian Trail, as well as cycling the Blue Ridge Parkway and adjacent Skyline Drive, and paddling the James River, from the mountains to the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay.The Green Tunnel Podcast:Website I Facebook I Instagram I TwitterFollow Virginia Outdoor Adventures Podcast:Website I Facebook I Instagram I TwitterSend Questions, Comments, and Suggestions: Jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.comSupport the show

In this bonus episode, I’m sharing a guest appearance I made on another fantastic Virginia-based podcast called, If She Can Do It So Can You. The show is hosted by my friend, Amanda Creasey, who is a gifted writer, teacher, and podcaster. Amanda and I share a love of the outdoors and an appreciation for being reflective about our experiences in nature.I enjoyed the opportunity to share why I began podcasting, the impact the show has had on our community, and the vision I have for the show’s future. Amanda and I discuss the entrepreneurial side of podcasting, my travels around the commonwealth, some of my wildest experiences in the Virginia outdoors, dealing with fear, and assessing risk while adventuring.****************************************Send me your questions, comments, or suggestions for a future bonus episode of Virginia Outdoor Adventures: Jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.comFollow VAOA Podcast:Website I Facebook I Instagram I TwitterSupport the show: Buy Me A Coffee ***************************************Connect with Amanda Creasey, Host of If She Can Do It So Can You:Instagram I If She Can Do It So Can YouListen to on:Apple PodcastsBuzzsproutAudibleSpotifyStitcherSupport If She Can Do It So Can You on Buy Me A CoffeeSupport the show

“I want to visit all the Wildlife Management Areas, but honestly, it's about the journey, not the destination. I've traveled to all corners of the Commonwealth, I've met some good people with great stories, I've learned a lot of things, and I've seen some beautiful land. I want to share my adventures at the WMAs and ,hopefully, encourage and inspire others to go explore the wild as well.” -Lisa Ghidotti, Wildlife Management Area ExplorerVirginia is blessed with an abundance of public lands that are open for everyone to enjoy. Wildlife Management Areas, known as WMAs, encompass 225,000 acres of diverse habitat across the Commonwealth and provide excellent hiking, wildlife viewing, paddling, fishing, hunting, horseback riding, and primitive camping opportunities. Lisa Ghidotti, an experienced hiker, kayaker, and angler, has been exploring the wild by challenging herself to visit every WMA in Virginia. Lisa shares the highlights of her journey, what she has discovered along the way, and her tips for planning your own adventure so you, too, can explore the wild. Let’s Go!Follow VAOA Podcast:Website I Facebook I Instagram I Twitter Send Questions, Comments, and Suggestions: Jessica@virginiaoutdooradventures.com Support the show: Buy Me A CoffeeVAOA Podcast is Sponsored by:Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources I Shop DWRVisit MecklenburgBreaks Interstate ParkAdvertisers:Visit HarrisonburgWalkabout Outfitter Promo Code: WALKABOUT22Visit ChesapeakePolaris AdventuresBlue Ridge Outdoors MagazineMentioned in this Episode:*Support the Show with a Membership and Receive the Full List of Show Notes LinksConnect with Lisa: Facebook I Instagram I Strava Wildlife Management AreasLicenses I Access Permits I Boating RegistrationsRestore the Wild MembershipDWR GoOutdoorsVirginia AppVirginia Wildlife Run Club on StravaTrillium at Thompson Wildlife Management AreaHang Time Koala Super Grip Phone HarnessBeyond BoundariesRun for the WildSupport the show