As soon as those first daffodil shoots push through the soil and a hint of milder air drifts in, we’re ready to shake the winter from our boots and head outdoors. Spring in Virginia welcomes opportunities for hiking, biking, camping, glamping, and basically any excuse to feel the sun on our shoulders. But first, get in gear at a local outfitter. Not only can you stock up on outdoor essentials and chat with knowledgeable staff about all your nature needs; you’ll support a local business in the process. Now that’s as rewarding as a jaunt on your favorite trail. Here are five to try.
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Since 2014, River Rock Outfitter has provided apparel, gear, and guided outdoor experiences to anyone interested in pursuing adventure. Their staff of tested athletes, certified professionals, and true gear nerds will take your experience to new heights, depths, or paths, depending on your direction. Along with clothing and footwear, they carry camping and hiking needs, paddling basics, and helpful travel accessories such as packing cubes and toiletries. Plus, they’ll cater to all your climbing needs with specialty shoes, harnesses, helmets, ropes, runners, chalk and chalk bags, carabiners, and rappelling devices.
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Located in the heart of Danville’s River District, Moss Mountain Outfitters carries leading brands for all your outdoor needs. Set out on the trail with hiking poles, boots, hydration supplies, and packs of all shapes, sizes, and colors. Or, set up camp with their assortment of tents, sleeping bags, and cookware. And if you’re heading out on the water, browse their selection of kayaks and paddles. As if that’s not fulfilling enough, the business’ charitable arm, Heads Up Eyes Forward, donates 100% of the brand’s net profits directly back into the community.
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Launched in 1981, Mountain Sports Ltd supplies folks with quality outdoor gear for hiking, biking, camping, paddling, climbing, fly fishing, and winter sports. Their full-service bike shop carries mountain, road, cruiser, commuter, and comfort bikes with a bike mechanic on site every day. When it comes to fly fishing, you’ll not only stock up on supplies, but their knowledgeable crew will help you select the right flies for the season as well as the best local waters. They’ll also prepare you for paddling in a quality kayak, canoe, or SUP.
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While their roots trace back over 50 years to our southern North Carolina neighbor, Great Outdoor Provision Co. now boasts two Virginia locations ready to fulfill all your needs related to camping, hiking, water sports, climbing, fly fishing, and travel needs. Plus, they’ve got cool tech gadgets including solar panels, LED lanterns, and chargers. They’re committed to sustainability by supporting local land trusts (Lynnhaven River NOW and Piedmont Environmental Council in Virginia) that help preserve spaces for folks to keep adventuring for years to come. And their partnership with Black Folks Camp Too promotes unity in the outdoor community and beyond because no matter your race, age, or gender, we all have something to say around the proverbial campfire.
The outdoors should be for everyone, and that’s been the vision behind Walkabout Outfitter since their first shop opened in Lexington in 2005. Whether you’re a thru-hiker or someone who loves a casual, urban walkabout, the inclusive environment inside each of their six Virginia shops is for you. They’ve got all the standards, plus some specialty items like kid carriers, hammocks, and a collection of books and maps helpful to anyone planning to hike the AT. Even your canine companion can trot out on the trail with a new harness, leash, pack, cooler, water bowl, or toy.Â
