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Water-Carved Valleys in Laurel Highlands, PA
With eight state parks and two state forests spanning nearly 120,000 acres of pristine wilderness, Pennsylvania’s Laurel Highlands is a playground of laurel-covered mountains and water-carved valleys. But it’s not just the breathtaking scenery that draws visitors here; it’s the wealth of water adventures waiting to be explored. From thrilling whitewater rafting excursions to serene paddling journeys, the Laurel Highlands region offers an array of aquatic experiences for all skill levels.
Virginia Runner Completes Half Marathon in All 50 States, While Undergoing Cancer Treatment
Last weekend, the Fargo Marathon in North Dakota marked its 20th anniversary. The race also marked a big accomplishment—in the works for over a decade—for Virginia runner Dawn Marshall, a 59-year-old cancer survivor from Newport News. When Marshall completed the event’s half-marathon, she also finished her longtime goal of running a half in all 50 states.
Aquatic Adventures in Franklin County, VA
From leisurely kayaking and paddleboarding adventures on serene lakes to gentle tubing trips down winding rivers, Franklin County offers a perfect playground where every splash promises an unforgettable experience for newcomers and seasoned adventurers alike. Beginner Friendly Floats. Discover the Blackwater River Blueway, where you can enjoy a serene 8-mile...
Swim or Paddle in Edmonson County, KY
Nestled amid rolling hills and lush landscapes, Edmonson County, Kentucky offers a paradise for water enthusiasts. From serene lakeside retreats to exhilarating river adventures, there’s something for everyone seeking aquatic thrills in this picturesque corner of the Bluegrass State. An Aquatic Wonderland. Nolin Lake State Park offers a slice...
Water-Bound Thrills in Bristol, TN/VA
Bristol offers an abundance of breathtaking mountain views, gorgeous lakes and rivers, and scenic hiking and biking trails. A haven for outdoor enthusiasts, the waters of South Holston Lake and Steele Creek are particularly interesting to those who relish hitting the water and paddling their way around Bristol’s picturesque settings.
Wander the Waters at Virginia State Parks
With 42 Virginia State Parks, the water adventure opportunities are endless. Whether you prefer to take an easy float and reel in some fish, dive into coastal waters, or have a serene camping experience by the shores, these parks beckon you to return time and again for more aquatic excitement.
June 2024: Walk on Water
On the Cover: Paddleboarders on Summersville Lake. Photo courtesy of Visit Southern West Virginia. Meet the guy with 18,000 fishing flies. An author details an account of a kayaker’s disappearance. North Carolina finally feels like home. There’s great value in adventure discomfort. Get on the water with this...
A Tennessee Man Ties His Hobby to Water Conservation
Mike Kesselring owns roughly 18,000 fishing flies. There are flies from as close as his local outfitters and as far away as Japan. There are flies made for catching local trout, Taimen in Mongolia, and Golden Dorado in Argentina. He knows each one’s story and intended use. They sit stacked in 14 x 9-inch plastic divided trays that line one end of his living room in Walland, Tennessee. But none of them came from his own hands.
Join Veritas Winery for the Starry Nights All-Day Music Festival
Headed to Virginia this August? Check out Veritas Vineyards and Winery’s Starry Nights All-Day Music Festival on Saturday, August 10, 2024. The annual event in Afton, has grown into a beloved tradition over the winery’s 25-year history. This year’s festival promises an unforgettable experience, blending live music, gourmet food, and fine wine in the picturesque shadows of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Two States to Stay at in Bristol, TN/VA
Bristol is rather unique, considering it’s in both Tennessee and Virginia, and the state line runs smack dab through its historic downtown. But when you add its outdoor scene, it’s a destination you simply must see to believe. And once you’re here, it won’t be easy to leave.
Reserve a Campsite in a Virginia State Park
Whether you’re looking for a night of solitude or a place to camp with the whole family, there’s a Virginia State Park out there to fit your needs. More than half of the state’s 42 parks feature some type of lodging, from tent and RV sites to cabins, lodges, and yurts. Find your spot by the water or amongst the trees today.
Night at the Museum? Preserve History while Living like a Lock Keeper
Nestled along the Potomac River and spanning across four Maryland counties and into the District of Columbia, the C&O Canal National Historical Park is a living, breathing time capsule dating back to 1850. For visitors today, the Park is a place of refuge, where you can bike, walk, fish, or paddle across 184.5 miles from Cumberland to Georgetown, Maryland.
Pick your Place in Jefferson County, WV
Nestled amidst the rolling hills and historic charm of West Virginia, Jefferson County offers a quintessential blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. From its quaint towns to its sprawling countryside, this region beckons visitors to unwind, explore, and immerse themselves in its rich tapestry of experiences. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, historical discoveries, or simply a peaceful retreat, Jefferson County has a place for every traveler.
Ditch the crowds and take the backroads with Old 96 District
With summer and its warm, sunny days on its way, there has never been a better time to plan your trip to South Carolina’s Old 96 District! Ditch the crowds and take the backroads; enjoy life at a slower pace and breathe the fresh air in peace. Discover the...
Paddling & Biking in Pocahontas County, West Virginia
Slow down and enjoy the fresh mountain air in Pocahontas County, West Virginia. Explore the woodland scenery of West Virginia’s longest rail-to-trail conversion, the Greenbrier River Trail. With 78 miles of lush green forests and remote West Virginia backcountry to enjoy, scenic beauty awaits around every bend. The trail follows the winding Greenbrier River through the mountains and valleys of Pocahontas and Greenbrier counties, featuring some of the most secluded areas in the state. It runs through several small towns, crosses 35 bridges and passes through two tunnels. The trail is ideal for leisure biking at less than a one percent grade. Rent bikes from local outfitters and explore the trail at your own pace, taking breaks to enjoy the scenery or have a picnic along the way.
Why Lynchburg, Virginia is a Runner Friendly City
The ultimate runner-friendly city, Lynchburg holds miles of trails that vary in elevation and snake past jaw-dropping vistas. These trails not only appeal to residents out for a breath of fresh air; they also make Lynchburg the perfect host city for competitive races. The Road Runners Club of America bestowed the city a “Runner-Friendly Community Designation®,” and Lynchburg has been named among the “Top Trail Towns” by Trail Runner magazine. Whether you’re an aspiring runner or are ready for a new challenge, the city of Lynchburg’s Parks and Recreation department maintains a network of urban trails totaling some 40 miles of paved and natural pathways. Read on for some of our favorite places to kick up our feet.
North Carolina Climbers Fest Returns With Inclusivity Focus
Carolina Climbers Coalition’s (CCC) North Carolina Climbers Fest returns this weekend with promises of new experiences welcoming a diverse group of climbers. The festival offers expert-led clinics for all skill levels, and this year the event, which runs from May 17-19 near Pinnacle, North Carolina, will implement new initiatives to promote inclusivity in the climbing community. This includes two new clinics focused on supporting women and BIPOC climbers making the transition from climbing gyms to outdoor crags.
The Long Downhill
I am ashamed to admit this, but my kids hate hiking. It is one of my great failings as an outdoor dad. On our most recent hike, they complained for the entire car ride to the trailhead. “Hiking is slow and boring. It’s just walking. How long will this take?”...
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Blue Ridge Outdoors is your guide to fly fishing in the Southeast, moutain biking in the Blue Ridge and adventure travel from the Highlands to the Piedmont.
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