Get Outside

Virginia State Parks TRAIL QUEST

Do you brag about visiting the Virginia State Parks with no proof to back it up? Now here's your chance to prove it with Virginia State Parks TRAIL QUEST. Interested? Click here if you're up to the challenge.

Virginia State Parks Blooming Adventure Geocaching Program

If you are a seasoned geocacher or brand new to the game, Virginia State Parks Blooming Adventure Geocaching Program is just what you need to get out and discover the natural side of Virginia. Click here to get started.

Virginia Horse Council

The purpose of the Virginia Horse Council (VHC) is to promote and improve the horse industry in Virginia. It carries out its mission by building positive relationships with elected officials; collaborating with other agriculturally based organizations, supporting equine education; and supporting trail development across the state.

www.virginiahorsecouncil.org

Use the links below to download guides to the primary horse trails and trail heads in Virginia that have public access. Right-click on the links and choose "Save Target/Link As..." to copy to your computer. Adobe Reader 6 or greater required:

Central Virginia Section (PDF)

Northern Virginia Section (PDF)

Eastern Virginia Section (PDF)

Tidewater Virginia Section (PDF)

Chesapeake Virginia Section (PDF)

Blue Ridge Highlands - under development

Heart of Appalachia - under development

Shenandoah Valley - under development

Southern - under development

Leave No Trace

The Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics is an educational, nonprofit organization dedicated to the responsible enjoyment and active stewardship of the outdoors by all people, worldwide. www.lnt.org

Virginia Birding and Wildlife Trail

From the Atlantic Ocean on Virginia's eastern border, to the towering Mt. Rogers at its southwest corner, the Commonwealth includes every bird and animal habitat that occurs naturally between Maine and Florida. The state also offers a long history, rich culture, and tradition of warm hospitality to welcome visitors. www.dgif.virginia.gov/vbwt

Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries

The Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries' mission is:

• To manage Virginia's wildlife and inland fish to maintain optimum populations of all species to serve the needs of the Commonwealth;
• To provide opportunity for all to enjoy wildlife, inland fish, boating and related outdoor recreation and to work diligently to safeguard the rights of the people to hunt, fish and harvest game as provided for in the Constitution of Virginia;
• To promote safety for persons and property in connection with boating, hunting and fishing;
• To provide educational outreach programs and materials that foster an awareness of and appreciation for Virginia's fish and wildlife resources, their habitats, and hunting, fishing, and boating opportunities.

Toolboxes for Citizens, Special Interests

There aren't many nicer places than Virginia, but it'll take all of us to keep it that way. DCR's programs cover a wide array of interests, from water quality protection to land conservation to helping at a state park... The list goes on and on, so there's bound to be something to interest you. Learn more about getting involved in conservation by following this link. www.dcr.virginia.gov/toolboxcit.shtml

DCR's Virginia State Parks Youth Corps

The mission of DCR's Virginia State Parks Youth Corps (VSPYC) is to engage Virginia's youth in a structured program of important conservation and park projects on public lands while providing learning that fosters teamwork, self-esteem, social responsibility and respect for the environment. www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/ycc.shtml

The Virginia Master Naturalist Program

The Virginia Master Naturalist Program is a statewide corps of volunteers providing education, outreach, and service dedicated to the beneficial management of natural resources and natural areas within their communities. Interested Virginians become Master Naturalists through training and volunteer service. www.virginiamasternaturalist.org/

Women's Wellness Weekends

Virginia State Parks has a new program designed just for women looking to reduce stress, learn about nature and enjoy the great outdoors. Our Women's Wellness Weekends will be offered at various parks across Virginia. Read on for dates, parks and program specifics. www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/wwwellness.shtml

The Civilian Conservation Corps Legacy

The Civilian Conservation Corps Legacy represents the alumni of America and strives to bring awareness to the heritage of the CCC, CCC alumni, their programs and accomplishments. For many years, alumni across America have elevated their heritage though consistently reminding citizens, historians, and natural resource agencies of its great impact on the American culture. Please join the effort to continue the legacy of the Civilian Conservation Corps and the men who served. www.ccclegacy.org