Virginia Outdoors Influencer Campaign

In June and July 2017, four outdoor influencers visit Virginia. They included:

• Divergent Travelers, visited the Appalachian Trail
• Kids are a Trip, visited the Shenandoah Valley
• Bucket List Journey, visited the Eastern Shore
• Adventure Inspired, visited the Triple Crown

Was looking back at photos from my trip to Virginia over Independence Day weekend and noticed from this angle, it sorta looks like Dragon's Tooth is a giant hand poised to give the sky a high five. Anyone else see that?

A post shared by Katie Levy (@k8tlevy) on Aug 8, 2017 at 7:14am PDT

Today on the blog my 14 year old shares his favorite things for kids to do in the Shenandoah Valley. If you haven't been, this is a beautiful part of the country that shouldn't be missed. Come see what he recommends. What's your favorite National Park? Link in bio. #vaoutdoors #unplugged #LoveVA #familyadventure #virginia #goshenandoah #shenandoahnationalpark #nationalparks #traveldeeper #igersvirginia #beautifulview #kidsareatrip #travelwithkids #traveltips #ontheblog #gnomads

A post shared by Kirsten Maxwell (@kidsareatrip) on Jul 18, 2017 at 6:11pm PDT

Virginia is for Adventure Lovers ?#Virginia #LoveVA #VAOutdoors #SWVA @mySWVA #lp @lonelyplanet @VisitVirginia pic.twitter.com/yhyiPKFwIf

— Divergent Travelers (@divergenttravel) July 17, 2017

A day late for a #tbt, but things got a little crazy yesterday! This is me, standing alone on Mcafee Knob, except I wasn't alone at all. We shared the trail with dozens of other people that day, which isn't a surprise because hey, look at the view! I was so happy to see how clean the trail was regardless of how popular it is. I didn't see a single speck of garbage. Good job y'all!

A post shared by Katie Levy (@k8tlevy) on Jul 14, 2017 at 8:38am PDT

Virginia is for outdoor lovers! Anyone making epic adventure plans for this weekend? #VAoutdoors #loveVA @VisitVirginia #travel #adventure pic.twitter.com/sfgZ2YFDF3

— Divergent Travelers (@divergenttravel) July 12, 2017

Sometimes, when you plan trips, you go even if the weather doesn't look perfect. And sometimes, the weather ends up being pretty darn close to perfect anyway. Sometimes, you're really fortunate, and Mother Nature shows off in a big way.

A post shared by Katie Levy (@k8tlevy) on Jul 11, 2017 at 8:04pm PDT

How would you like to backpack to a place like this? Look good? Great! I learned a ton on my Virginia Triple Crown adventure, some of which I expected in advance and some of which I didn't. If you're interested in this trip, visit my blog via the link in my profile for tips, tricks, and route planning advice along with more pictures!

A post shared by Katie Levy (@k8tlevy) on Jul 9, 2017 at 4:01pm PDT

The best way to follow up a day of adventure is with local wine from the #EasternShore of Virginia. It's purely a bonus that it was served to me in the cutest strawberry glass ? @chathamvineyard #winenot #LOVEVA #VAOutdoors ….. Where's your favorite wine region?

A post shared by Annette White (@bucketlistjourney) on Jul 8, 2017 at 9:25am PDT

Beautiful green ridges as far as the eye could see in Southwestern Virginia last weekend. Not pictured: how stinky I was after hiking in the heat and humidity all day (you're welcome)! Click the link in my profile to read more about my Triple Crown backpacking trip experience, and see if it's a good hike for you!

A post shared by Katie Levy (@k8tlevy) on Jul 7, 2017 at 7:52pm PDT

How close are you willing to get to the edge of a cliff to check out a @usgs marker? We were willing to get pretty close at Tinker Cliffs last weekend! Love seeing these markers because it usually means you're on top of something super cool.

A post shared by Katie Levy (@k8tlevy) on Jul 6, 2017 at 7:47pm PDT

I like every trip to have a little bucket list adventure and in the Eastern Shore of Virginia is was this wild ride with @VirginiaHangGlidi… pic.twitter.com/w0f28AqCaY

— Bucket List Journey (@BucketListJrny) July 6, 2017

The Eastern Shore of Virginia is meant for #outdoorsy adventures (my favorite!). Nothing says adventure quite like a Jeep carrying a kayak … pic.twitter.com/BIgkd6NZs9

— Bucket List Journey (@BucketListJrny) July 5, 2017

Just in case y'all were wondering, Trail Magic is a real thing. Between getting emergency car trouble fixed before we started the Virginia Triple Crown, amazing route planning help from the Roanoke AT Club, and getting a ride back to my car after having to cut our trip a few miles short, I felt like our luck was especially strong last weekend! We still completed the Triple Crown, visiting all three spots in two nights and three days. This, Dragon's Tooth, was our last destination. Pretty neat, huh? (?: @acwoj)

A post shared by Katie Levy (@k8tlevy) on Jul 5, 2017 at 8:30am PDT

A short hike through some sand dunes on the Eastern Shore of #Virginia led me to this secluded beach. ? No one but me. Yay!#LOVEVA #VAOu… pic.twitter.com/xXFEklH6y1

— Bucket List Journey (@BucketListJrny) July 4, 2017

Happy Independence Day, friends! Who else got in some trail miles over this holiday weekend? @VisitVirginia pic.twitter.com/UOsfAqu6pY

— Adventure-Inspired® (@AdvInspired) July 4, 2017

My bicycle ride through Cape Charles on the #EasternShore of Virginia led me here. ? It's a small beach where you may find some pretty sea … pic.twitter.com/mwVpALxz4P

— Bucket List Journey (@BucketListJrny) July 3, 2017

@acwoj and I are off the trail after three days of some pretty tough, but beautiful hiking! Virginia's got some VIEWS, y'all, like this one from one of three points on the Virginia Triple Crown. We visited the other two over the course of our two nights and three days on the trail. The trail took us along with the entirety of the ridge behind us in the picture! Of course, nothing ever goes exactly as planned, but I had an amazing time exploring a new part of Virginia. More pictures and a trip report to come!

A post shared by Katie Levy (@k8tlevy) on Jul 3, 2017 at 8:17am PDT

Walking the peaceful dock at Holly Bluff Guest House on the #EasternShore of Virginia. It was pretty marshland as far as the eye can see ??… pic.twitter.com/JJzwVlwFxw

— Bucket List Journey (@BucketListJrny) July 2, 2017

It was just by chance that I found this #TreeTunnel on the Eastern Shore of Virginia. ?Got lost on Smiths Beach Road and there it was! #LOV… pic.twitter.com/j0ejEYEyIQ

— Bucket List Journey (@BucketListJrny) July 2, 2017

One of the most amazing things happens as you drive through Shenandoah National Park. One moment you are in the thick of the woods and the next minute is this glorious meadow! Wishing everyone a wonderful holiday weekend. #virginia #LoveVA #VAOutdoors #shenandoahnationalpark #meadow #exploremore #adventureisoutthere #travelgram #traveldeeper #travelwithkids #weekend #holidayweekend #nofilterneeded #gnomads

A post shared by Kirsten Maxwell (@kidsareatrip) on Jun 30, 2017 at 6:51pm PDT

Hello from the #EasternShore of Virginia! I'm exploring all the outdoorsy things to do here and realizing that there's so much! ? First adv… pic.twitter.com/mm2L6aDjrR

— Bucket List Journey (@BucketListJrny) June 30, 2017

"Sometimes the best way to recharge your batteries is to unplug them." Saw this quote today and could not agree more. After spending the weekend exploring the Shenandoah River Valley and Shenandoah National Park with my 14 year old son, I realized how important unplugging is for both of us. Nature allows us to connect on another level. We both see more trips like this in our future. How do you recharge your battery? . . . . #VAOutdoors #LoveVA #GoShenandoah #ShenandoahNP #quoteoftheday #nature #beautifuldestinations #shenandoahriver #picoftheday #exploremore #outdoorfamily #igtravel #neverstopexploring #traveldeeper #wanderlust #travelwithkids #landscape #river #canoe

A post shared by Kirsten Maxwell (@kidsareatrip) on Jun 27, 2017 at 5:54pm PDT

This was quite honestly the most mind blowing thing that happened today. A reflection on water of stalactites growing down from the ceiling inside Luray Caverns. The entire place is amazing and took our breath away! Have you explored any caverns? #VAoutdoors #LoveVA #luraycaverns #adventureisoutthere #familyfun #roadtrip #exploremore #virginia #gnomads #reflection #nofilter #mothernature #naturelovers #travel #landscape #caverns

A post shared by Kirsten Maxwell (@kidsareatrip) on Jun 26, 2017 at 6:00pm PDT

If you love the great outdoors like we do you need to explore #SWVA#LoveVA #VAOutdoors #outdoorSWVA @VisitVirginia pic.twitter.com/ECAFg4cJn6

— Divergent Travelers (@divergenttravel) June 26, 2017

Even teenagers can be wowed by Mother Nature's beauty. Spectacular sunset tonight at Skyland Resort in Shenandoah National Park. What a wonderful way to end the day! #goshenandoah #LoveVA #VAoutdoors #sunset #shenandoahnationalpark #familyfun #familyvacation #adventureisoutthere #exploremore #gnomads #kidsareatrip #virginia #travelgram @goshenandoah #skylandresort @visitvirginia #nofilter

A post shared by Kirsten Maxwell (@kidsareatrip) on Jun 25, 2017 at 6:00pm PDT

How are you spending your weekend? How about hitting the waters on the New River #SWVA #LoveVA #VAOutdoors #outdoorSWVA #SWVA @VisitVirginia pic.twitter.com/6ulkuqDhn4

— Divergent Travelers (@divergenttravel) June 25, 2017

Imagine you are standing at the edge of this platform…do you jump? People have before. This is where people will leap off from 3000 feet overlooking Harrisonburg, Virginia and beyond to hang glide this valley. It is not for the faint of heart, but it is a spectacular view. Had a great hike and tour of the area with Lindsey the mountain bike park guru at @massresort. What a day! How's your weekend? #LoveVA #VAoutdoors #hosted #familyfun #adventure #hanggliding #harrisonburgva #amazingview #nofilter #traveltheworld #exploremore #gnomads #kidsareatrip #adventureisoutthere #travelgram #virginia #shenandoahvalley

A post shared by Kirsten Maxwell (@kidsareatrip) on Jun 24, 2017 at 6:56pm PDT

#SWVA is for sportsman's. Just spending day on the New River you will be hooked #LoveVA #VAOutdoors #outdoorSWVA #SWVA @VisitVirginia pic.twitter.com/UaVWkaSJsW

— Divergent Travelers (@divergenttravel) June 24, 2017

The Museum of the Shenandoah Valley and adjoining Glen Burnie estate and gardens were a wonderful way to begin our Virginia adventure. Such amazing history in this area, even the 14 year old enjoyed himself. He is a tough audience! Have you been to this area? Tell us what you love about it! #loveva #VAoutdoors #museum #historical #virginia #gnomads #kidsareatrip #exploremore #adventureisoutthere #gardens #gardenlife #flowers #outdoors #iggarden #secretgarden #shenandoahvalley @visitwinchesterva @shenandoahvalleymuseum

A post shared by Kirsten Maxwell (@kidsareatrip) on Jun 23, 2017 at 6:03pm PDT

We couldnt visit #SWVA without putting our boots on part of the Appalachian Trail #LoveVA #VAOutdoors #outdoorSWVA @VisitVirginia #Sponsored pic.twitter.com/JqI9izTFG0

— Divergent Travelers (@divergenttravel) June 23, 2017

A destination that was merely a suggestion at the start of our time in Virginia, we never thought we'd make a visit to the Cascade Falls. Access to the falls isn't without some work and requires a 4 mile trail loop through a highly scenic area of the Jefferson National Forest. Having walked 10 miles on the Appalachian Trail the day before, we found this unexpected walk the perfect way to loosen up our legs. We had originally had plans in the afternoon for some kayaking but welcomed the chance to explore this part of Virginia as an alternative. Hopping rocks on the trail and following the creek, this was the first view we were granted of the 69 foot falls at the end of the trail. ⠀ ⠀ Have we convinced you to go hiking in Virginia?⠀ ⠀ Photo location: Jefferson National Forest, Virginia⠀ ⠀ #LoveVA #VAoutdoors #SWVA #SWVAoutdoors #exploreamerica #travelUSA #usa #virginiaisforlovers #Virginia #divergenttravel #sponsored #travelstoke #hike #hikelife #getoutdoors #outdoorliving #beforeidie #gadv #travelphotography #livetravelchannel #forbestravelguide #lonelyplanet #tlpicks #doyoutravel #divergenttravel #liveintrepid #exploringtheglobe #thebestdestinations #incredibledestinations #welltravelled #passionpassport #travelstoke

A post shared by Lina & Dave • Adventure Travel (@divergenttravelers) on Jun 22, 2017 at 2:46pm PDT

Laurel Creek along the Creeper Trail in #SWVA . Get out and explore #VAOutdoors #LoveVA #outdoorSWVA @VisitVirginia pic.twitter.com/PxpEEs76GS

— Divergent Travelers (@divergenttravel) June 22, 2017

@VisitVirginia Creeper Trail is one of the best rail-trail bike routes in the entire nation #LoveVA #VAOutdoors #outdoorSWVA #SWVA pic.twitter.com/5whHqBrA43

— Divergent Travelers (@divergenttravel) June 22, 2017

The Virginia Highlands Horse Trail is a system of equestrian trails running 65 miles through the Mount Rogers Recreation Area in SW Virginia. We saddled up, rode to the top and into the Grayson Highlands in search of the wild ponies that occupy the area. Unfortunately, we never found them that day but man, those trails were gorgeous. For a lifetime horse lover, there is really nothing better than going for a ride on a well behaved, well cared for horse. ⠀ ⠀ Have you ever been horseback riding? TELL US where!⠀ ⠀ Photo location: Virginia Highlands Horse Trail⠀ #LoveVA #VAoutdoors #SWVA #SWVAoutdoors #divergenttravel #horseriding #horsetagram #horse #exploreamerica #usa #travelusa #virginiaisforlovers #virginia

A post shared by Lina & Dave • Adventure Travel (@divergenttravelers) on Jun 21, 2017 at 4:03pm PDT

#SWVA Bucket List Experience! Searching for wild ponies on the @VisitVirginia Highlands Horse Trail #LoveVA #VAOutdoors #outdoorSWVA pic.twitter.com/zssW4bi7Mr

— Divergent Travelers (@divergenttravel) June 21, 2017

If you love the outdoors you need to check out #SWVA . Adventures are limitless. #LoveVA #VAOutdoors #outdoorSWVA @VisitVirginia #Sponsored pic.twitter.com/Xu1TIdTDgV

— Divergent Travelers (@divergenttravel) June 20, 2017

If you love biking you need to hit up #SWVA ! We experience the Creeper Trail. #LoveVA #VAOutdoors #outdoorSWVA @VisitVirginia #Sponsored pic.twitter.com/rt5CgeXuwl

— Divergent Travelers (@divergenttravel) June 20, 2017

In a world so well traveled it's hard to believe it's possible to still find unique places that nobody visits. Imagine our surprise when we arrived in SW Virginia and hiked 3 miles up an abandoned road to find one of those gems. Known affectionately as 'The Channels' by the locals, this place a unique geological formation thought to be formed during the last ice age with some of the sandstone being over 400 million years old! You can wander for hours between the rocks and climb into hidden areas as the light illuminates the bright green moss that grows on the stone. It was a rare moment we felt utterly alone in this world. ⠀ ⠀ Would you explore something like this?⠀ ⠀ Photo location: SW Virginia⠀ ⠀ #LoveVA #VAoutdoors #SWVA #SWVAoutdoors #getoutside #getoutdoors #optoutside #virginia #secrets #findyourpark #cnntravel #gadv #livetravelchannel #beautifuldestinations #forbestravelguide #lonelyplanet #tlpicks #doyoutravel #divergenttravel #fodorsonthego #liveintrepid #exploringtheglobe #thebestdestinations #incredibledestinations #welltravelled #passionpassport #travelstoke #exploreamerica #usa #travelusa

A post shared by Lina & Dave • Adventure Travel (@divergenttravelers) on Jun 19, 2017 at 3:37pm PDT

Exploring a place that few people know exists. Priceless.
Have you been to #SWVA #LoveVA #VAOutdoors #outdoorSWVA @VisitVirginia #Sponsored pic.twitter.com/2ansSo73P3

— Divergent Travelers (@divergenttravel) June 19, 2017

There is so much more to SW Virginia then we could have ever imagined. We've spent the past 5 days getting up to all sorts of adventures and exploring an area that very few people even know about. This photo was captured in the Grayson Highlands after we spent 2 hours horse trekking up the mountains. Despite the weather forecast saying 80% chance of rain, we had a beautiful day! Have you been to Virginia? Photo location: Grayson Highlands, Virginia #loveVA #VAoutdoors #SWVA #SWVAoutdoors #getoutside #getoutdoors #virginia #sponsored #beforeidie #cnntravel #gadv #travel #travelphotography #traveldeeper #bbctravel #livetravelchannel #beautifuldestinations #forbestravelguide #lonelyplanet #tlpicks #doyoutravel #divergenttravel #fodorsonthego #liveintrepid #exploringtheglobe #thebestdestinations #incredibledestinations #welltravelled #passionpassport #travelstoke

A post shared by Lina & Dave • Adventure Travel (@divergenttravelers) on Jun 18, 2017 at 7:24am PDT