About

My name is Erin Gifford. I grew up in Northern Virginia and have lived in the state nearly my entire life. However, only in the last couple of years have I truly ventured out to explore this great state. Namely, its miles upon miles of scenic hiking trails that criss-cross the state.

Thanks to 41 state parks, multiple regional parks and recreation areas, one national park, and more than 500 miles of the Appalachian Trail (more than any other state), there’s a lot to see and explore on foot in Virginia.

In April 2020, I started Go Hike Virginia as a way to introduce fellow nature lovers to the hiking trails of Virginia. For state residents, in particular, there is so much to see and do in our own backyard. Just lace up your hiking boots (or a good pair of walking shoes) and go.

Beyond blogging about hiking, I also blog about family travel at Kidventurous and hiking in Maryland at Maryland Hikes. And, I’m a freelance writer, penning stories about travel, road trips, family vacays and outdoor adventures.

My work has appeared in The Washington Post, Chicago Tribune, Parents, Family Circle, CNN.com, LonelyPlanet.com, USA Today’s GoEscape and more. You can see my work at www.eringifford.com.

Meantime, I look forward to sharing the trails of Virginia with you in hopes that you will go out and experience them for yourself. Hope to see you on the trail soon.

Feel free to write me at [email protected] with any questions, comments, feedback or suggestions you may have. I can’t wait to hear from you.

Auther Erin Gifford
A quick hello from Mary’s Rock Summit at Shenandoah National Park