HIGHWAY HOME

BY LAUREN STEPP

Peter and Allison Barr are eating peanut butter sandwiches outside a Wal-Mart in Elkins, W.Va. It’s winter, and a heavy snow is starting to dust the motor oil-stained asphalt. To the shoppers panic-buying milk and white bread, this is just a grocery store. But to Peter and Allison, it’s home. At least for now.

Tomorrow, the married couple will park their Class C motorhome on some lonely forest service road. From there, they will venture into the Allegheny Mountain Range to bag some of the highest peaks in the eastern United States. Next week, they will start snaking back down to Asheville, N.C.— the city they left behind more than two years ago to be digital nomads.

“We wanted to have deep and meaningful experiences while we’re still young,” Allison says as the couple’s cat, Oscar, nuzzles into her lap. “And we weren’t sure how much longer we could count ourselves young,” Peter adds.

To clarify, Peter and Allison are both 38 years old—sprightly by today’s standards. But it’s no secret that an increasing number of techsavvy millennials are having the same realization. Shaken awake by the pandemic or a soured relationship, folks are bidding adieu to 9-to-5 jobs and embracing a location-independent lifestyle bankrolled by remote work. In fact, according to a 2021 report produced by MBO Partners, more than 10 million Americans identify as digital nomads—a 49 percent increase since 2019.

However, unlike some nomads who are forced to downsize after facing an eye-opening calamity (think: Covid-related layoffs), Peter and Allison weren’t strong-armed into the full-time RV lifestyle. “We both had careers that we loved and adored,” says Peter, who previously worked full-time as trails specialist at Conserving Carolina, a land trust in Hendersonville, N.C. Allison, who taught at a public school, remembers being “very, very happy and content.”

Except in the summertime. Each year when school let out, the two would set off on a grand adventure. They’d climb the Tetons or hike Yellowstone, crashing in their truck for weeks at a time. Despite a packed itinerary, these trips only whet the couple’s appetite for adventure. They wanted more, says Allison: “It was just never enough.”

Fortunately, Peter and Allison don’t shy away from bold decisions, especially when made in the name of adventure. A decade ago, Peter was working as a bench scientist at a water and soil lab in Charlotte. All day, he sat in a room with no windows and daydreamed about being outside. “I was so miserable in that career,” he says.

So, Allison made a proposition: Peter would thru-hike the Appalachian Trail while she moved their lives from Charlotte to Asheville. Peter, who had fallen in love with the mountains during road trips as a kid, was sold. And in 2010, after logging 2,181 miles, he summited Mount Katahdin.

Years later, the couple once again found themselves deciding between divergent paths. They could continue living a secure and stationary life or they could take the training wheels off and travel full-time.

After nearly two years of planning, they decided to take the plunge. But, unlike other digital nomads who cut all ties with conventionality, Peter and Allison still live with a fairly straightforward routine. Peter works part-time remotely with Conserving Carolina, where he pours his “heart and soul” into developing the Hickory Nut Gorge State Trail, a 100-mile trail

PETER AND ALLISON EXPLORING THE WESTERN UNITED STATES. PHOTO COURTESY OF PETER BARR

ALLISON AND PETER BARR. (ABOVE) THE COUPLE’S RIG AND TOW VEHICLE. PHOTOS COURTESY OF PETER BARR network that traverses some of North Carolina’s roughest terrain. Meanwhile, Allison manages their Asheville home on Airbnb for extra income.

“Everybody has a different path to this lifestyle,” says Allison. “Some people think, ‘Oh, I could never leave my job’ or ‘I could never sell everything.’ But there’s not a one-size-fits-all approach.”

The same goes for rigs. In their travels across North America, Peter and Allison have witnessed other full-timers living in everything from 30-square-foot truck campers to palatial Airstreams. Wanting something bigger than a van but less cumbersome than a giant RV, the couple opted for a 2010 Fleetwood Jamboree Sport.

After purchasing the rig in Utah for $35,000, they added some upgrades: a Wi-Fi booster, shatter-proof window treatments, six solar panels, four lithium batteries, and two Roku televisions. Peter and Allison needed the “26-footlong box on wheels” to have everything they might need to keep their cats, Oscar and Sweetie, comfortable while boondocking (Sweetie passed away from old age a few months into life on the road).

But proper boondocking still requires foresight. Before Peter and Allison drive hours from the nearest town, they fill up on propane, top off their 50-gallon fresh-water tank, empty the black and gray tanks, and stock up on food. “It’s been interesting to see our new roles in the RV,” says Allison, who oversees meal prepping and campsite selection while Peter navigates back roads.

In some ways, life as a digital nomad is vastly more complicated than life in a traditional house. For starters, Peter and Allison camped out in this Wal-Mart parking lot in West Virginia just to get cell service. Peter is always tinkering with the rig because something is always broken. But what RV living lacks in convenience, it makes up for in memorable experiences.

As of last December, the two had visited 70 lighthouses, climbed more than 300 peaks, and ogled more than 100 waterfalls. Peter has also hosted inperson and virtual events for Exploring North Carolina's Lookout Towers: A Guide to Hikes and Vistas, a book he co-authored before hitting the road. Plus, he’s started offering private trail consulting and is teaching an online course on sustainable trail building at Rockingham Community College.

Allison is chasing passion projects too. She’s pursuing her Master of Library Science online at Appalachian State University and now has the time to read—a novelty in her past life. But more than that, the couple has time to genuinely connect with other people. “With Covid-19 and our country’s political divisiveness, it’s easy to lose faith in humanity,” Peter says as snow starts to blanket the RV. “But being out here, meeting people who have opened their homes to us and shared a meal with us, you’re reminded that everyone wants the same things out of life.”

What makes Newport News a top destination for anglers? Its location on the James River near the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay means there’s an abundance of freshwater and saltwater fishing opportunities everywhere you look.

Whether you’re looking to get out on a boat in the thick of things or reel one in from the shores, the salty waters of the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries hold untold wonders and plenty of space for you to find a quiet spot. Common saltwater fish include croaker, spot, striped bass, red drum, speckled trout, and flounder. With a Saltwater Fishing License, you’ll find free fishing at the Hilton Pier, Wave Screen Pier at King-Lincoln Park, Denbigh Park, and the Monitor-Merrimac Overlook. Additional fishing for a fee is available from the James River Bridge Fishing Pier at Huntington Park but no license is required.

Two public reservoirs and a lake round out the freshwater fishing in the area with common catches including largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and chain pickerel. From sunrise to sunset, the Lee Hall and Harwood’s Mill reservoirs offer scenic spots to cast a line as you enjoy some time outside. Shoreline fishing requires a Parks Division Shoreline Fishing Permit as well as a Virginia Freshwater Fishing License.

Deep Creek Landing Marina Don’t worry if you forget something at home. Wilcox Bait and Tackle is the one-stop-shop for all things fishing while you’re in town, plus additional resources are available from the Bass Pro Shop just down the road in Hampton. When the fishing is done for the day, there are dozens of quick stops, cozy cafes, and fine dining establishments to choose from when it comes to finding a good meal. Sample the local catch of the day, get adventurous, or go for the old tried and true—there’s something delicious no matter what you’re feeling. Then it’s time to settle in for the night at one of the area’s relaxing accommodations. From the easily accessible hotels to the 188 modern campsites at Newport News Park, find a comfy spot to spend the night. Visit Virginia’s coast and discover a whole world of fishing opportunities to explore in Newport News.

Jon boats are available for rental yearround at the Newport News Park Campsite Office, and on weekends and holidays during the summer months at Lee Hall Fishing Area and Harwood’s Mill.

Five rivers rise out from Patrick County, Va., flowing into two major watersheds. Every river or stream in the county originates from within its borders. This dynamic creates wading opportunities for anglers that can’t be found everywhere.

The Dan River begins on the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains with firstclass rainbow, brook, and brown trout. The North and South Mayo River are frequently stocked with brown and rainbow trout. The Smith River can be accessed at Historic Jack’s Creek Covered Bridge. Nearby is Rock Castle Creek with pickerel and sunfish. The Ararat River rises up near historic Laurel Hill and contains native and rainbow trout. Fairy Stone Lake at Fairy Stone State Park offers largemouth bass, crappie, sunfish, and bluegill. Neighboring Philpott Lake offers excellent bass, walleye, crappie, and catfish opportunities.

While you’re here, experience the flavors of Patrick County with a local farm-to-table dining experience at Pickle & Ash. Enjoy Blue Ridge wines at Stanburn and Villa Appalaccia wineries. Immerse yourself in five-star luxury at Primland Resort. There’s so much to discover. Find yourself here in Patrick

Talbott Dam and Townes Reservoir offer many angling possibilities from shore, as well as from hand-carried boats and canoes. Philpott Lake

Both New River Outdoor Co. and Tangent Outfitters offer guided fishing trips in the area so you can get the most out of your visit.

County, Va. VisitPatrickCounty.org

Big Stony Creek

From the world-renowned New River to smaller waterways, Giles County, Va., is a fishing destination for anglers of all types. Considered one of the top smallmouth bass rivers in the country, the 37 miles of the New River running through the county are a premier freshwater fishing spot. With 17 public and private access points along the New River Water Trail, you can stay on the water all day as you look for bass, muskellunge, walleye, and more.

Perfect your fly fishing skills on an excellent trout fishery when you visit Big and Little Stony Creek. Cherokee Flats is an accessible fishing area for wheelchair-bound anglers with a paved trail and metal ramp.

Fill up on local delights at the end of a long day, like beef brisket and hush puppies from Bluegrass BBQ, farm-fresh, seasonal fare from Harvest Restaurant at Mountain Lake Lodge, a rotating menu and specialty drinks from The Bad Apple, or stone-oven pizza and decadent desserts from The Palisades Restaurant.

Soak up the waters and scenery of Giles County when you plan your next fishing getaway. VirginiasMtnPlayground.com

Grab your rod and reel and find a quiet stretch of water in Virginia’s Blue Ridge. With over 260 miles of scenic rivers and blueways, as well as more than 28,000 acres of lakes, there is no shortage of amazing locations for fishing.

Float the Upper James River Water Trail through Botetourt County, of which 59 miles are designated as Virginia Scenic River. Hook up with Twin River Outfitters for guided overnight fishing and camping trips along the river with waterfront campgrounds. When you’re done on the water, enjoy post-fishing food and drink at local spots such as Foot of the Mountain Cafe and The Witt Stop.

Franklin County features a variety of ways to get on the water, from calm lakes to snaking rivers. Smith Mountain Lake, known for its world-class bass fishing, and Philpott Lake, known for one of the best walleye populations in Virginia, provide plenty of spots tucked away to fish and miles of shoreline to explore. Spend hours on the water floating the Pigg, Blackwater, and Smith rivers for your next big catch.

Roanoke County’s Explore Park is one of the best spots to access the Roanoke River Gorge for fly fishing. Cast a line for bass, redeye, and trout from the shore or put in your boat at Rutrough Point. Then you can settle in for a night at one of the campsites or cabins on the property and enjoy food and drink at the onsite Twin Creeks Brewpub. Winding its way through the cities of Roanoke and Salem, the Roanoke River

Twin Ridge Recreation Blueway features numerous access points

Area on Philpott Lake for fishing on the Roanoke River, including various segments stocked with trout. Gather at local breweries such as Parkway Brewing Company in Salem and Big Lick Brewing Company in Downtown Roanoke at the end of the day to share stories about your prizewinning catch. In Downtown Roanoke, the Orvis Retail Store is the perfect place to find fly fishing equipment, apparel, and other gear, as well as a wealth of information regarding local fishing opportunities. Plus, with knowledgeable guides and outfitters at Carter Fishing Company, Dead Drift Outfitters, South Valley Anglers, and Roanoke Mountain Adventures, you’re sure to find someone who can point you in the right direction or lead you there. VisitVBR.com

For a more solitary experience, head into the Jefferson National Forest for countless mountain creeks filled with trout, including Jennings Creek, North Creek, and Middle Creek.

No matter the type of fishing you enjoy—trout, big lake, small lake, downriver, tidal river, even Chesapeake Bay and ocean fishing—you’ll find something that suits you at a Virginia State Park.

Famous for its trophy muskellunge, Hungry Mother State Park offers a unique fly fishing opportunity. The 108-acre Hungry Mother Lake is small enough that you can cover it in a day or two, accessible by boat or the spillway from the shore. The two main channels are typically the best area to catch muskie where several larger than 50 inches have been seen. These waters support a host of other sport fish, including largemouth, smallmouth, hybrid striped, and spotted bass, crappie, channel and flathead catfish, carp, bluegill, and walleye.

Douthat State Park is the place to be for trout fishing. Douthat Lake, a 50-acre fee fishing lake, is stocked with rainbow, brown, and brook trout twice a week during the fee season. The lake also offers excellent largemouth bass fishing and fair opportunities for landing sunfish, black crappie, channel catfish, and chain pickerel. Just below the dam, you’ll find a special trout fishing area has been created on a section of Wilson Creek, which is great for kids and adults alike.

Ample panfish are just waiting to be caught at Fairy Stone State Park, so it’s the perfect place to teach the kids fishing skills. For more serious anglers, the lake offers some good largemouth bass while bluegill, crappie, catfish, and October-stocked trout round out the park’s lake fishing. Just up the road is Philpott Reservoir, which offers good walleye and largemouth and smallmouth bass fishing. New River Trail State Park is a true gem for the fly angler and is famous for its smallmouth bass fishing. The park parallels the scenic and historic New River for 39 miles, so you can hike, bike, or kayak to your fishing spot. The river supports outstanding populations of just about every major freshwater game fish in the state. You’ll find everything from smallmouth, spotted, largemouth, rock, striped, white, and hybrid striped bass, to muskellunge, walleye, black crappie, channel catfish, flathead catfish, yellow perch, redbreast sunfish, and bluegill. With 41 parks dotting the landscape from the Appalachian Mountains to the Atlantic Ocean, there are endless opportunities

New River Trail State Park in between to fish a Virginia State Park.

State records caught in the New River include muskellunge, smallmouth bass, and yellow perch.

Amazing scenery, world-class fishing, and miles and miles of pure paddling adventure await you in southern Virginia. The height of sporting delight, Halifax County’s In the spring, Southern Virginia prepare to Wild Blueway has meet large blue statewide recognition flathead and as a premier fishing channel catfish, destination. The rivers—the Dan, the Staunton, and the making the area a favorite of locals and tournament fishermen. Banister—combine for more than 100 miles of navigable Southern Virginia Wild Blueway water. Of that, more than 80 miles have been designated as Virginia Scenic Rivers. These waterways create an anglers’ paradise as you will find largemouth bass, white bass, crappie, sunfish, and striper fishing year-round.

Once off the water, venture on land for drinks, food, and exciting local culture. Celebrate the day’s catch with dinner at Molasses Grill in the historic town of Halifax. Tell reel stories over brews at Factory Street Brewing Company or high balls at Springfield Distillery. Want to explore the area? Experience world-class motorsports, history, public art, walking tours, museums, arts and culture, state parks, and dark skies. From running rapids to trackside thrills, discover what makes your heart race in Halifax On Lake Anna, rent a pontoon boat from Shipwreck Boat Rentals, visit one of the many islands, and grab something to eat at The Cove Restaurant.

County, Va. GoHalifaxVA.com

Lake Anna

If you want to spend the day with your rod and reel at a picturesque spot, look no further than the waters of Spotsylvania County, Va.

Start your trip off with a visit to Lake Anna State Park, known for its largemouth bass, crappie, and bream. Just down the road, you can rent kayaks and canoes from Lake Anna Outfitters for fun on the water. Plus, with tent sites, RV sites, cabins, and family lodges, there are plenty of spots to stay close to the fishing and miles of trails.

Ni River Reservoir and Hunting Run Reservoir are both stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, and more, perfect for entry level to experienced anglers. Launch your boat from one of the ramps or fish from the shores. Don’t overlook the Wilderness Presidential Resort where you can fish and boat two stocked lakes. Wake up at your campsite or cabin before heading out for a day relaxing on or by the water.

Get away and recharge on the peaceful shores of Spotsylvania County, Va.

Located a short drive from the entrance to the Blue Ridge Parkway and Skyline Drive, Waynesboro, Virginia is a trout angler’s dream in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley. Fish thrive in the mountain waters of George Washington National Forest and fly anglers especially enjoy the South River flowing through downtown Waynesboro for trophy-sized rainbow and brown trout, a 6.5-mile stretch of which was recently designated a Virginia Scenic River. The 2.2-mile catch-and-release section, extending from Wayne Avenue bridge downstream to Second Street bridge, is one of two urban trout fisheries in Virginia. Waynesboro, Further upstream, you’ll find the put-and-take section of the river at Ridgeview Park. While in town, visit the professionals at South River Fly Shop for fishing gear, advice, and guided excursions to the nearby South River or further out to the James Va., is a trout angler’s dream in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley. and Jackson Rivers.

The outdoor fun doesn’t stop there. Check out great hikes on the Blue Ridge Parkway and Shenandoah National Park, or explore the Claudius Crozet Blue Ridge Tunnel, a unique hike that takes you under Afton Mountain through an abandoned railroad tunnel.

After taking on the great outdoors, head into town to take advantage of Waynesboro’s cultural offerings. Catch a movie or live show at the beautifully restored Wayne Theatre, originally built in 1926. Discover world-class murals on the Waynesboro Street Arts Trail, an interactive, scavenger-hunt-style tour on the free Traipse app, or explore art indoors at the Shenandoah Valley Art Center and P. Buckley Moss Gallery.

You’ve probably worked up an appetite by now, and there are plenty of enticing options to sate your hunger in Waynesboro. Stop by The River Burger Bar, an upscale burger joint whose interior decorating pays homage to its namesake, the South River, or the local favorite, Heritage on Main, where southern cuisine comes with a twist. Cruise through the Shenandoah Beerwerks Trail, a series of nearly twenty breweries within an hour of each other, for stunning mountain views, live entertainment, fresh brews, and tasty eats. Visit Basic City Beer Co., Seven Arrows Brewing, and Stable Craft Brewing in Waynesboro before discovering the rest of the trail. With over fifty wineries, breweries, and distilleries within thirty miles, plus Virginia’s first dedicated kombucha taproom, Blue Ridge Bucha, there’s something for everyone in Waynesboro. Spring-fed waters, mountain views, alluring activities, and exceptional restaurants make Waynesboro the ideal angler’s getaway and a foodie’s haven. Come work up an appetite in

According to Curtis Fleming, host of Fly Rod Chronicles, “Hardy County is the area which encompasses the most condensed number of fishable streams—it is absolutely one of my favorites!” (Southern Trout, J/J, 2017). South River

Spinning or fly fishing? Hardy County offers seasonally gentle or whitewater rivers, as well as lakes and mountain runs waiting to be fished. Tributaries wind down the mountain slopes feeding Hardy County’s four rivers to offer some of the best fishing in West Virginia.

The South Branch of the Potomac River is a favorite, and whether fishing or floating, the Trough should be a destination. The six-mile gorge features towering rock walls and can only be accessed by water. Known for its great bass fishing and abundance of rainbow, brown, and brook trout, you can also watch bald eagles soaring overhead. Breezewood Adventures has kayaks and canoes you can rent for paddling or fishing the South Branch. They offer a variety of river trips with shuttle service and host private camping trips featuring waterfront sites, river access, and adventure activities.

The Hanging Rock area is a favorite fishing spot on the 30mile Lost River. Disappearing underground at the Lost River Sinks, it emerges as the Cacapon River. In the fall and spring, Lost River, nearby Waites Run, Trout Run, and Moore’s Run are stocked with trout. The Cacapon and its tributaries are known for their brook trout habitats. Warden Lake offers easily accessible fishing and the longest grass carp on record (53.1”) was landed there this year by Zack Adkins.

North River skirts the northern boundary of the county and, like so many of the mountain runs and man-made lakes,

Hardy County is also stocked throughout the season. Upper Cove, Kimsey Run, and Parker Hollow Lakes are well known fishing spots with Parker Hollow’s submerged, standing trees creating fish habitat. Trout Pond Recreation Area is home to excellent fishing. At times not more than a large puddle, Trout Pond is the only natural lake in West Virginia, and the 17-acre Rockcliff Lake offers incredible fishing from the river’s shore or by boat. Channel catfish, largemouth bass, and trout are regularly caught at Rockcliff but, while night fishing is permitted, there are special boating and fishing limit regulations. There are numerous places to stay throughout Hardy County—inns, bed and breakfasts, vacation cabins, a hotel, and several motels. Find a complete list of accommodations, restaurants, and shopping, plus river access points, at the website below. VisitHardyWV.com

When it comes to finding a quiet spot where the fish are biting, there’s no shortage of deep pools, active streams, and calm lakes Pocahontas to cast a line in Pocahontas County. Amidst the mountains of County, known as West Virginia’s Monongahela National Forest, you’ll find a the Birthplace of wide range of rainbow, brook, and brown trout opportunities, Rivers, is home to plus some excellent spots to catch smallmouth bass. the headwaters of

From the storied Greenbrier River and Gauley River to eight rivers that the wild waters of the Williams, Elk, Cranberry, Cherry, Tygart, and Shavers Fork of the Cheat River, there’s always a new waterway to explore every time you visit. Between entice anglers from all over the world. Knapps Creek and three lakes in the area—the Buffalo, Seneca, and Watoga—you’ll keep busy all day long.

Want to get to know these waters more intimately? The professional guides at Knapps Creek Trout Lodge know their way around the area. Between their beginner lessons and backcountry outings, there’s a trip for every skill level. Plus, their onsite lodging makes for a great place to stay while you’re in town. From a full day wading trip to a weekend package, enjoy world-class fly fishing right out your back door at the Elk River Touring Center. Plus, rent the gear there so you don’t have to haul everything with you. If you prefer Williams River solitary exploration, check out Appalachian Sport for all of your fishing supplies, boat rentals, and shuttle service needs while you’re in town. Plan your visit around one of the many top-notch fishing events throughout the year and meet up with other anglers from all over the region. Participate in the WV Gold Rush, running March 23 through April 3, as the state stocks its infamous golden rainbow trout, including at Cass and Watoga state parks. Compete on storied waters at the Greenbrier Fly Fishing Classic or Lake Buffalo Fishing Derby, both happening on May 14. Depending on what level of comfort you seek, there are plenty of lodging options to choose from at the end of the day. Curl up in your tent or cabin, find a charming bed and breakfast, or enjoy one of the area’s fine hotels. Find all of this, and more, in Nature’s Mountain Playground of Pocahontas County, W.Va.

Home to the mountain state’s largest lake, there is plenty of space to spread out and cast a line in Summersville, W.Va.

Summersville Lake’s calm flatwater is perfect for families, beginners, and those looking for a serene float. In addition to the lake’s tailwaters, the Cherry River, Cranberry River, and Laurel Creek located in nearby Richwood provide excellent destinations for float and wade trips. Whether you’re looking for large and smallmouth bass, walleye, panfish, catfish, or trout, stocked in the spring, there’s never a bad time to visit.

Get on the water with a knowledgeable local guide from Pro River Outfitters or Freelance Fishing and Guide Service. They’ll get you to the best spots in the area, plus provide all the gear you’ll need. If you’re going out on your own, several outfitters and shops are well stocked with bait, gear, and boat rentals in case you leave anything at home.

Plus, with a wide variety of dining and lodging options, you’ll never want to leave. Fish all day and relax at night in Summersville. SummersvilleCVB.com

Visit March 29 through April 9, 2022 for the West Virginia Gold Rush, a statewide stocking of the native golden rainbow trout. Long Point

The Chesapeake Bay is the largest rockfish nursery on the Atlantic coast with 70-90% of the population using the bay to spawn.

Chesapeake Bay

As the state fish of Maryland, there’s no better place to cast a line for rockfish than the waters of Calvert County. Located right between the Chesapeake Bay and Patuxent River, there are countless scenic spots to fish on the water or from the shore.

The rockfish, also known as striped bass, typically grows up to three feet in length and weighs 10-30 pounds. Trophy season kicks off the first of May, but there is good fishing through October, so there’s plenty of time to plan your trip.

If you’ve never fished the bay, consider booking a charter boat for a morning or the day. The experienced crew will take care of equipment and navigation so you can focus on reeling in the big one. Plus, with countless tackle shops, waterside restaurants, and lodging accommodations with a view in the area, you don’t have to travel far to stay close to the rivers and bay.

Discover the ultimate rockfish destination when you visit Calvert County, Md.