Virginia will take travelers’ obsession for outdoor adventure to new heights – especially along the Appalachian Trail, with more miles in Virginia than any other state. Shoot white water rapids running through downtown Richmond or ride the curl at surf camp in Virginia Beach. Gear up for major bike trails that trace Virginia’s railroad heritage in Southwest and Southside Virginia. From the majestic beauty and 500 miles of trails of Shenandoah National Park to 34 award-winning state parks, Virginia beckons adventurers to explore nature’s finest and live life to the fullest.

Dave Burden paddles through a creek on the Eastern Shore.

Only a few people know what it means to paddle your glass off. Dave Burden is one of them.

Dave knows the ins and outs of the Eastern Shore. The tall, athletic kayaker loves being on the water and knows where to put in and take out along the creeks and marshes of the Shore. His guided kayak trips attract paddlers of all skill levels, and no experience is necessary to appreciate the beauty of the Shore’s waters. His popular Chatham Vineyards trip includes a stop at the winery and tastings. As owner of Southeast Expeditions, Dave's passion for outdoor adventure and love of the Eastern Shore have inspired some of the most talked-about kayak tours in the country. He gets people to “leave it on the beach” and totally immerse themselves in outdoor adventures that will feed their life force. Dave offers kite boarding classes, bike rentals and guided nature walks. His downtown Cape Charles water sports center also sells outdoor gear and clothing.

Dave Burden with his dog.

Dave Burden is passionate about Virginia's Eastern Shore and the kayaking he does along it.

• Certified Virginia Ecotour Guide, Virginia Department of Environmental Quality

"It's the silence of the marsh that's sometimes the loudest thing you can hear because it really forces you to be in touch with it. It forces you to understand it on a simpler level." -Dave Burden

A couple walks along the Cape Charles beach.

Virginia's water sports opportunities are tremendous!

• Captain John Smith Trail: Adventures on the James River is an exploration for either water or road and has 40 sites of interest along the way.
• Smith Mountain Lake expands 40 miles and has 500 miles of shoreline.
• Lake Moomaw is a not-so-small 2,530 acres within the 13,428 acre T. M. Gathright Wildlife Management Area.
• Virginia's rivers and streams are excellent for whitewater kayaking, canoeing, tubing and fly fishing.
• The Eastern Shore welcomes you to the Seaside Water Trail, a 100-mile paddle around the uninhabited barrier islands.

The choices are yours to make and Virginia is yours to live! Find an Outfitter for your next excursion.