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Category "Hiking Central"Clear results in following blogs.

Trail running through Trail Quest: Q&A with Master Hiker, Jessica Hairfield

By Haley RodgersPosted October 29, 2024
Interviewing Master Hiker Jessica Hairfield on her experience with Trail Quest. Jessica is a trail runner who ran on the trails during most of her park visits. She shares her experiences, her favorite parks to trail run at and advice for new runners.
Park ranger presents a certificate that says Master Hiker on it to Jessica who is holding a snake, in front of a sign that reads "Welcome to Pocahontas State Park"

Fall foliage at Virginia State Parks: Peak periods by region

By Starr AndersonPosted September 12, 2024
There’s nothing quite like fall at Virginia State Parks, and every park experiences peak fall colors at different times. Check out our list of recommendations for the best spots to see fall foliage as you plan your fall getaway.
Fall foliage

5 things to experience when visiting Holliday Lake State Park

By Kim WellsPosted July 24, 2024
Holliday Lake State Park is a hidden gem in Appomattox that offers a variety of activities and scenery for all to enjoy. Whether you want a self-guided adventure or ranger-led activity, this park is a must visit destination.
Fishing at HL

3 state parks to see in south central Virginia

By Haley RodgersPosted March 30, 2023
An itinerary for you to see three state parks in three days in south central Virginia: Occoneechee, Staunton River and Staunton River Battlefield State Parks. Find out the best way to experience these parks and get closer to completing Trail Quest.
Photo collage of Staunton River trailhead with tall pines in background, a standup paddleboard at the shores of Buggs Island Lake at Occoneechee State Park, and a view of the Staunton River Battlefield Bridge while standing at the end

Hiking Through the Eyes of a City Girl

By Jolie DavisPosted February 10, 2023
Growing up in the city gave me a different perspective on nature and the great outdoors. I didn't go hiking or even want to be outdoors, but joining the Americorps program at a Virginia State Park changed that perspective.
High Bridge Trail State Park runs through downtown Farmville.

5 day itinerary to explore the Farmville Five

By Kim WellsPosted August 04, 2022
There are five Virginia State Parks located in Farmville and each one offers a unique look at the area while providing a variety of recreational activities that can be experienced in a fun 5-day trip.
Sign of Historic Farmville Train Station with blooming flowers underneath

Making the Most of Our Trail Quest Adventure

By Guest BloggerPosted December 28, 2021
Debra Ryder shares her experiences of completing Trail Quest with her partner RJ Meade. They started 2021 by going on a First Day Hike which kicked off their journey to visiting all 41 Virginia State Parks in under one year.
Debra Ryder and RJ Meade hiking at Belle Isle State Park.

Don't Get Lost in the Woods
.... Unless You Want To

By Nancy HeltmanPosted October 08, 2020
New Virginia State Parks maps use GPS technology and the Avenza Map app to help with way-finding.
Enjoy the hike!

Favorite Autumn Hikes in Virginia

By Shellie AnnePosted October 03, 2019
Leaf peepers are always looking for the best place to view the autumn leaves, here are some great suggestions from Virginia State Parks trails.
Experience the fall views from above the lake at Douthat State Park, Va

Loving Lost Barr

By Tom KneippPosted July 28, 2019
Chief Ranger Tom Kneipp shares some trail thoughts about the beloved Lost Barr Trail at Bear Creek Lake State Park .
Fallen trees have opened the forest canopy, allowing in more light so that younger trees can flourish. at Bear Creek Lake State Park, Va


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