46. Jeep Overlanding with Shawn Van Der Poel and Dawn Creamer, Terra Overland

“For almost 200 years we didn't have this native animal. It was because of volunteers and people like Jackie with Virginia DWR and their combined efforts with Breaks Park who worked together to restore the area that elk have returned. Visitors are amazed at how big and how majestic the animal is. It's like an entire rainbow of emotions - excitement, joy, I've even had people cry.” – Avery Rose, Breaks Interstate Park

The mountains of Virginia’s Appalachian Plateau echo with a sound not heard in over a century - the bugle of bull elk.

In this episode, Jackie Rosenberger, Elk Project Leader for the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources and Avery Rose, Elk Tour Manager for Breaks Interstate Park, trace the hoofprints of these majestic creatures from their local extinction to the present-day flourishing population that attracts visitors from around the country and beyond.

The story of elk restoration is a narrative of resilience and ecological triumph that's etched into the very landscape of the region.

Join us for a journey that's not only about the past and present of these magnificent animals, but also about the future they're shaping for Southwest Virginia. Let’s Go!

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VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by:

Virginia Association for Parks

Breaks Interstate Park

Virginia State Parks
 

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Visit Pulaski County

Visit Giles

Visit Wild Buchanan

Breaks Interstate Park

Mentioned in this Episode:

Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources Elk Viewing

Virginia DWR Instagram I Facebook

DWR Elk Cam

Breaks Interstate Park 276-865-4413 

Breaks Park Instagram I Facebook

Breaks Park Elk Bus Tour Reservations

Southern Gap Elk Fest Oct 24 - 26

“As part of the change in economy, we reforested the eastern part of the United States. We have a lot of forests now that are about 100 years old. As the trees came back, the deer came back, as the deer came back, the ticks came with them. And then the pathogens, of course, come along for the ride as well. I think about it from an ecology perspective, that what we did not bring back was also those top predators. So we end up with this ecology of weedy species, like deer, that do replication really well, and raccoons and rodents and all these things that also make excellent tick food.” – Dr. Holly Gaff, Old Dominion University Tick Research Team

How afraid should you be of ticks and tick-borne diseases? 

The distribution of ticks in Virginia is expanding and tick-borne diseases are on the rise. But what is the probability of contracting a tick-borne disease? How serious are these diseases to our health and what can we do to protect ourselves outdoors? 

Dr. Holly Gaff, Professor and Chair of Biological Sciences at Old Dominion University, answers your questions about the complexities of these parasites and their implications on human health. 

Dr. Gaff tackles myths and truths about tick behavior, the expansion of ticks, and the importance of environmental balance. Discover practical advice on how to keep these bloodsuckers at bay while respecting their place in our ecosystem. Let’s Go! 

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VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by:

Virginia Association for Parks

Breaks Interstate Park

Virginia State Parks

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Visit Giles

Mentioned in this Episode:

Connect with Dr. Holly Gaff

ODU Tick Team

Facebook 

Instagram

“There's a real excitement about Farmville, a steady progression, where we sit on this cusp of what we all think is an opportunistic moment for Farmville to shine. It's a great place to live, work, and recreate. That is our new tag for the town and I think it fits us well.” – Mayor Brian Vincent

Welcome to Farmville in the heart of central Virginia. Our guest, Mayor Brian Vincent, takes us on a journey through Farmville, where college town vibe meets small town charm.

From our dynamic conversation, one can't help but feel the town's heartbeat through its myriad of outdoor adventures and main street allure.

Together, we’ll roam through Farmville’s extensive outdoor rec offerings, including the “Farmville Five,” a list of must-visit state parks near town, uncovering the hidden treasures that make each park a true gem.

And speaking of gems, weaving through the core of Farmville is High Bridge Trail State Park, a 31-mile-long rails-to-trails park with the crown jewel being the majestic High Bridge, Virginia's longest recreational bridge. Soaring 125 feet above the Appomattox River, High Bridge Trail is a haven for hikers, cyclists, and history buffs alike.

Get ready to add another stamp on your passport to Virginia's Adventure Towns. Let’s Go!

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VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by:

Virginia Association for Parks

Breaks Interstate Park

Virginia State Parks

Mentioned in this Episode:

Connect with Mayor Brian Vincent

Appomattox River Company: Instagram I Facebook

High Bridge Trail State Park

Map of High Bridge Trail

Twin Lakes State Park

Bear Creek Lake State Park

Holliday Lake State Park

Sailor’s Creek Battlefield State Park

Canoeing and Kayaking

Boating and Fishing

Hiking and Cycling

Camping

Horseback Riding

Bright Eyes Alpaca Retreat

State Forests

“I couldn't be more proud. My staff and I have a lot of pride in taking care of these areas and this landscape, because there are so many things to love and there is so much uniqueness. But part of management is balancing the use these areas receive and trying to figure out ways to work with the public, or work with the partners, or work with a volunteer group to help support the sustainability of these areas over the long term.” -Ranger Beth Christensen, George Washington & Jefferson National Forests

Embark on an intimate trek through Virginia's Appalachian Mountains with Ranger Beth Christensen of the Eastern Divide Ranger District in the George Washington & Jefferson National Forests.

Beth's stories transport us from the jagged peaks of Dragon's Tooth, a jewel in Virginia’s Triple Crown, to the powerful rush of Cascade Falls, one of the most beautiful waterfalls on the entire east coast.

Beth’s insights into visitor information and preparing for a hike are golden nuggets for any outdoor enthusiast eager to explore responsibly.

Whether you're drawn to the high-flying raptors at Hanging Rock Observatory or the soothing sounds of Dismal Falls, this episode is a heartfelt tribute to Virginia's wild heart and an open invitation to tread lightly, give back, and immerse yourself in the enchantment of these revered spaces. Let’s Go!

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VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by:

Virginia Association for Parks – Parks Advocacy Day

Breaks Interstate Park

Virginia State Parks

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Virginia Association for Parks – Parks Advocacy Day

Visit Pulaski County

Make-A-Wish Greater Virginia – Register or
Contribute to My Trailblaze Challenge

Visit Giles

Mentioned in this Episode: (Become a Member of VAOA and receive the full list of show notes)

Connect with Beth: Eastern Divide Ranger District I 540-552-4641 I Facebook

New River Valley Master Naturalists

Appalachian Trail Conservancy

Poverty Creek Trails Coalition

Roanoke Appalachian Trail Club

Piedmont Appa

“The best way to describe how I got into this journey is that in the past, I've hiked the Appalachian Trail and the Pacific Crest Trail, and I've done bike tours from Mexico to Canada, and those journeys always gave me faith and they renewed my spirit, and they breathed new life into me. Those challenges always put me in a very positive and happy place.” - Kevin Conley, Wildland Firefighter and Author of Above the Ashes

When darkness looms, is it possible for nature's light to guide us back?

Kevin Conley, author and wildland firefighter, joins us to answer just that.

In an episode that's as raw as it is real, we follow Kevin's harrowing trek from the brink of despair, through his battle with severe panic attacks and depression, to the catharsis and clarity he found in the solitude of the outdoors on a 3,500-mile bike ride across the country.

His narrative, captured in, "Above the Ashes," isn't just about personal triumph; it's an intimate tour of nature’s healing landscapes and a story of redemption that speaks to the resilience we all possess. Let’s Go!

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VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by:

Breaks Interstate Park

Virginia State Parks

Virginia Association for Parks

 
Mentioned in this Episode:

Connect with Kevin: Website I Instagram 

Buy the Book: Above the Ashes

Donate: Wildland Firefighter Foundation

988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

“My husband and I traveled out west and saw wonderful, amazing sights. My favorite thing was coming back into Southwest Virginia, seeing our mountains and knowing that I was home. It was so beautiful. There's nothing like it being here in the coalfields and the small towns. You know, it's gorgeous out there. But being back here, it's a comfort. I just love it.” – Maddie Gordon, Clinch Life Outfitters
 
Welcome to the Town of St. Paul in the heart of Appalachia. Our guest, Maddie Gordon, owner of Clinch Life Outfitters, unravels the hidden gems of this charming town.  

Whether you're casting a line or paddling downstream, the turquoise waters of the Clinch promise a serene escape into nature's embrace.

Feel the adrenaline-pumping thrill of ATV riding on the Spearhead Trails, then lace up your hiking boots and take in the stunning mountain vistas from Clinch River State Park.

Get ready for an unforgettable experience in St. Paul – where nature's wonders and small town hospitality collide. Let’s Go! 

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VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by:

Breaks Interstate Park

Virginia State Parks

Virginia Association for Parks

Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources

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Virginia is for Lovers

Western Front Hotel

Music by 49 Winchester

Mentioned in this Episode:

Connect with Maddie Gordon: Clinch Life Outfitters I Instagram I Facebook

Email: info@clinchlifeoutfitters.com I Phone: 276-608-6907

*Mention Virginia Outdoor Adventures in-store and receive a discount, compliments of Maddie

Clinch River State Park

Trails in St Paul

Mountain View/Spearhead Trails

Clinch River Adventures

Mountain View Lodge

Sugar Plum Tavern and Eatery

Giovannis

Bluejean Bakery and Café

The Coffee Station

Fat Boys BBQ

Puerto Nuevo

Heart of Appalachia Visitors Center

“One of my favorite things about Virginia summits is I love going up there and being able to stare out, getting lost in the views. Virginia has so many beautiful views - Appalachian Mountain, Shenandoah Mountains, Blue Ridge Mountains - we've got them all and being able to look out at the mountains, out at the farmlands, it's just amazing.” – Erin Gifford, Go Hike Virginia

Every hiker knows the thrill and sense of accomplishment that comes with reaching a mountain’s peak. Epic views and stunning scenery are often what motivates hikers to lace up their boots and head for the top. 

Get ready to bag Virginia’s peaks with Erin Gifford of Go Hike Virginia as she shares the highlights of her latest book, “Virginia Summits: 40 Best Mountain Hikes from the Shenandoah Valley to Southwest Virginia.” 

Erin’s insights are invaluable as she describes summit hikes throughout the Commonwealth, such as the 360-degree views from Bear Fence in Shenandoah National Park, the challenging terrain of Humpback Rocks on the Blue Ridge Parkway, or the distinctive High Knob Fire Tower in the George Washington National Forest. 

Whether you're a seasoned hiker looking to take on a challenge or an outdoor enthusiast scouting for a new adventure, this episode is your guide to conquering Virginia’s summits. Let’s Go!

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VAOA Podcast is Sponsored by:

Breaks Interstate Park

Virginia State Parks

Virginia Association for Parks

Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources

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Visit Patrick County

Visit Smyth County

Mentioned in this Episode:

Connect with Erin Gifford: Go Hike Virginia

Books: Virginia Summits: 40 Best Mountain Hikes from the Shenandoah Valley to Southwest Virginia 

Episode 29. Great Hikes in Virginia with Erin Gifford

National Parks Pass

DWR Restore the Wild Membership 

Virginia State Parks Annual Pass

The Ten Essentials of Hiking

Leave No Trace

Episode 13. Endless Outdoor Rec Opportunities on Shenandoah Mountain with Lynn Cameron I Co-Chair, Friends of Shenandoah Mountain

“The James River runs 340 miles through the heart of Virginia, from the Blue Ridge all the way to the beautiful Chesapeake Bay. The river’s watershed is roughly 10,000 square miles and it supplies drinking water for 2.7 million people. It also provides opportunities to relax, adventure, and enjoy the great outdoors.” – Charles Johnson, James River Association

Rich in history and culture, the mighty James meanders over 340 miles through verdant forests, picturesque valleys, and rushing rapids from its headwaters in the Blue Ridge to the Chesapeake Bay. Flowing through the heart of Virginia, the James River offers abundant recreational activities, such as paddling, rafting, fishing, camping, and wildlife watching. Charles Johnson from the James River Association helps us navigate the ins and outs of planning the perfect paddling and camping expedition and shares valuable tips for finding the best resources for your own river adventure. So get ready to immerse yourself in the rhythmic harmony of paddles gliding through water and the majesty of eagles soaring overhead on the river that played a pivotal role in shaping Virginia’s past and continues to inspire the present. Let’s Go!

Become a Member of Virginia Outdoor Adventures to receive the full list of show notes to your inbox:

Charles Johnson: LinkedIn I Instagram

James River Association: Website I Facebook I Instagram

Ep 35. Whitewater Paddling with James River Women

Ep 27.  The Virginia Nature Triathlon with Senator Tim Kaine

Camping on the James

James River Batteau Festival, Scottsville

RVA Paddle Sports

Twin River Outfitters

James River State Park

Powhatan State Park

Riverside Outfitters

Help the James

“I've taken a boogie board out in just the tiniest little waves breaking right on the shore and had a blast. I've taken a surfboard out in waves that were almost as tall as I was and had a blast. There’s such a variety of waves that anybody at most any skill level can have a good time in Virginia.”  - Drew White, Coastal Plant Ecology Lab at VCU

Get ready to ride the waves as we explore surfing, boogie boarding, and body surfing with ocean enthusiast, Drew White, from the Coastal Plant Ecology Lab at Virginia Commonwealth University. Drew shares his insights on Virginia's best surfing locations, wave-riding safety, and why you don't need the biggest waves to have the biggest fun. But our adventure doesn't end there – we're also diving into the fascinating world of plant ecology and the importance of dunes in protecting the habitats of Virginia’s coastal ecosystem. So grab your board and score a wave. Let’s Go!

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VAOA Podcast is Sponsored By:

·       Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources I DWR Shop

·       Breaks Interstate Park

·       Virginia Association for Parks

·       Virginia State Parks

Advertisers:

·       Blue Ridge Outdoor Magazine

·       Virginia State Parks Wandering Waters Paddle Quest

Mentioned in this Episode:

Connect with Drew White: aewhite@vcu.edu

Coastal Plant Ecology Lab at Virginia Commonwealth University

Surfing vs Boogie Boarding

Movie: Come Hell or High Water

Surf Line App

National Weather Service

Windy.com

Tropical Tidbits

False Cape State Park

Savage Neck Dunes Natural Area Preserve

Episode Cover Photo by George Hernandez: Website I Facebook

“Once those tires hit the dirt, it's a completely different experience. It's about getting out and having a great adventure, freeing your mind, freeing your soul, and reconnecting with nature.” - Shawn Van Der Poel, Terra Overland

Imagine yourself behind the wheel of a fully equipped Jeep Wrangler Rubicon designed to conquer any terrain, traversing the majestic George Washington National Forest, as you embark on an unforgettable expedition. Virginia has an extensive network of overlanding trails that cater to adventure seekers of all interests and skill levels. From navigating obstacles and mud holes, to reaching new heights at breathtaking summits, you'll experience a profound sense of accomplishment that only the wilderness can provide. Shawn Van der Poel and Dawn Creamer from Terra Overland, have made the freedom of vehicle-supported travel and self-reliant adventure accessible to everyone. Buckle in and discover a true spirit of exploration through overlanding. Let’s Go! 

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VAOA Podcast is Sponsored By:

·       Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources I DWR Shop

·       Breaks Interstate Park

·       Virginia Association for Parks

·       Virginia State Parks

Advertisers:

·       Blue Ridge Outdoor Magazine

Mentioned in this Episode:
 

Connect with Terra Overland: Website I Instagram I Facebook  

George Washington National Forest

Flagpole Knob

Massanutten Resort

Boar’s Head Resort

Wintergreen Resort
Blog: Navigation and Route for our MABDR Backcountry Hiking and Overlanding Jeep Trek