Blue Ridge Outdoors 2022 Media Kit by Summit Publishing

2022 Media Kit

Print + Digital + Social + Custom Content

Our Mission Blue Ridge Outdoors takes readers deep into the mountains, covering adventure, recreation, travel, and culture in the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic regions. Distributed 11 times a year across the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast, our publication offers authentic insight on the region’s best scenic destinations and wild spaces. We use diligent reporting and engaging storytelling to stay on top of the latest mountain sports trends, gear innovations, and environmental news within our footprint.

COVER PHOTO BY NATE BOWERY

Now in our third decade, we are the largest free, independent outdoor lifestyle magazine in the country. We remain dedicated to inspiring people in the Blue Ridge and beyond to get outside and play.

Our Readers

Our Network Blue Ridge Outdoors is a proud member of the Outdoor Adventure Media (OAM) network of regional outdoor sports and adventure travel magazines—collectively reaching over a million active monthly readers across the country. OAM offers marketing professionals the flexibility to develop customized marketing plans to support specific regional markets. Learn more at: OutdoorAdventureMedia.com

Our 350,000+ readers of Blue Ridge Outdoors are active outdoor enthusiasts who love hiking, biking, fishing, paddling, running, skiing, camping, racing, road trips, gear, and craft food and beverages! DEMOGRAPHICS 54% MALE / 46% FEMALE AGES 25-54 MEDIAN AGE 38 64% MARRIED 52% PARENTS 9 5 % C O L L E G E E D U C AT E D 64% HOMEOWNERS AV E R AG E H O U S E H O L D INCOME: $96,000

LIFESTYLE 85% USE BRO TO PLAN TRAVEL AVERAGE 4.5 ADVENTURE TRIPS PER YEAR 81% TRAVEL 4+ HOURS TO DESTINATIONS 80% TRAVEL WITH A PARTNER OR FAMILY 72% HAVE PETS 58% USE BRO TO BUY OUTDOOR GEAR 90% SPEND OVER $100 A YEAR ON OUTDOOR GEAR

Our Circulation and Readership THE LARGEST OUTDOOR LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE IN THE COUNTRY!

The Outdoors Are Free and So Are We! Blue Ridge Outdoors is distributed free of charge in over 1,700 hand-picked locations that maximize exposure to active, affluent adults, ages 25-54. Circulation is concentrated in the population centers of the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic. Our distribution manager coordinates the logistics of magazine delivery, and stops are audited monthly to ensure accuracy.

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The Blue Ridge Outdoors Adventure Guides to the Southeast Our popular “Adventure Guides to the Southeast” are the perfect place to tell your story. A professional content creator will work with you to craft a custom piece highlighting your best adventures. Placed within the content of the magazine, each Adventure Guide seamlessly engages our readers and inspires them to plan to visit

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Hiking Southeast the

From the Atlantic Coast to the Appalachian Mountains, discover some seriously stunning trails with this guide to nine top hiking destinations across our region. Slip on your shoes, fill up your water bottle, and head out for a day or week filled with scenic overlooks, tumbling waterfalls, and good times. Please check with locations prior to travel for local guidelines, or use this guide for future trips!

Hike House Mountain in Lexington, Va. Photo by Brent McGuirt

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Natural Bridge State Park, photo by Kelsey Johnson

Conveniently located at the interchange of Interstate 81 and 64, Lexington, Buena Vista, and Rockbridge County sit at the southern gateway to Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley. An iconic local landmark, hike House Mountain for sweeping views of the mountains and valleys. Walk or run the Chessie Trail as it parallels the Maury River for seven miles from Lexington to Buena Vista. Hike seven miles of trails at Natural Bridge State Park, bring the kiddos to the Children’s Discovery Area, and stargaze on Skyline Trail. Take the time to check off some bucket list items with a hike on the Appalachian Trail or a drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Head to Walkabout Outfitter, Lex Running Shop, Red Newt Bikes, and Journey Outdoors for all of your outdoor needs while in town. Après Hike Refuel at one of the laid-back eateries, including JJ’s Meat Shack, Pink Cadillac Diner, Pure Eats, and Heliotrope Brewery. Follow the Shenandoah Beerwerks Trail for a post-adventure craft beer, or visit a vineyard or cidery. For a bit of nostalgia, catch a movie at Hull’s Drive-In through October. Check into The Georges, a restored 200-year-old inn offering designer accommodations, for a restful night’s sleep. RockbridgeOutdoors.com

Sights Galore in Shenandoah County, Va.

your destination on their next adventure! Click the sections below to view live. Trails of the Southeast | Fish the Southeast | Camp the Southeast Paddle the Southeast | Parks of the Southeast | Bike the Southeast Hike the Southeast | Winter Adventures | Destination Adventure Road Trip Guide The Go Outside and Play Guides: Adventure Itineraries

Hit the Trails in Lexington, Buena Vista, & Rockbridge County, Va.

Sunrise views atop Eagle Rock, an easy 30 minute hike near Strasburg.

Set between two stunning mountain ranges, hit the trails of Shenandoah County, Va., and take in the views for miles around. At 4.4 miles roundtrip, Big Schloss is a must-visit. Known for its picturesque rock outcrop overlooking the valley, make sure to pack a snack or lunch because you’re going to want to spend some time at the top. For more options in George Washington National Forest, check out the trailheads along Crisman Hollow Road. Local favorites include Strickler Knob and Kennedy Peak, plus Story Book Trail and Lions Tail Trail are excellent options for strollerfriendly and handicap-accessible excursions. Stop into New Market to refuel with delicious food from Jackson’s Corner Cafe, Jalisco’s Mexican Restaurant, or Jon Henry General Store. For a hike by the water, head to Seven Bends State Park where the North Fork of the Shenandoah River snakes through the valley. Eight miles of trails, plus boat access to the river, make this the perfect day-hike location. Just down the road, Muse Vineyards features its own walking trails with excellent views as you sip on a glass of wine. For dining options, Woodstock features local creations from Woodstock Brewhouse, Woodstock Café, Flour & Water, and Mary’s Botanita. VisitShenandoahCounty.com

Beaverdam Falls, photo by Beau Bryan

Cleveland RiverBend Campground, photo by JChumbley, MC Images

A Riverside Stay in Russell County, Va.

Take in magnificent views from High Knob Tower. Photo by Lori Mier

A Secluded Getaway in Harrisonburg & Rockingham County, Va. On a crisp fall morning, the first thing you notice is the silence. The absence of the sounds of civilization and human voices. You feel bathed in the utter peace and tranquility. Then, after a few miles on the trail, you notice the crunch of the leaves and twigs beneath your feet and the sounds of animals scampering in the woods. If it were a spring morning you might even see a mother bear and cubs in the distance. It is hard to believe you can be so completely immersed in wilderness only two hours from Richmond and Washington, D.C. Whether it’s on your bucket list to hike the Appalachian Trail or to take a romantic hike to a beautiful vista, Harrisonburg and Rockingham County, Va., is the perfect destination. There is plenty of room to explore, spread out, and soak up the sights in Rockingham County’s 175,000 acres of national park or national forest. The most well-known hiking spots in the area are located in Shenandoah National Park off Skyline Drive. With over 500 miles of hiking trails, including 101 miles of the Appalachian Trail, treat yourself to stunning overlooks from the crest of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains. Use the Swift Run Gap exit to reach Harrisonburg and Rockingham County businesses and attractions. Locals enjoy taking the Madison Run Fire Road up into the park. No entrance fee required. At 10 miles round trip, this dirt path winds along Madison Run with a gradual ascent from the fire road gate at the base of mountain to the top at Skyline Drive. For the road less traveled, try Cliff Trail, found in the Hone Quarry Recreation Area of George Washington National Forest just outside of Harrisonburg. Although the trail is rocky and steep in some places, it’s only about a half mile long. The sweat and calf stretches are worth it when you reach the picturesque rock ledge overlook. For gear or trail recommendations while you’re in the area, swing by Walkabout Outfitter or Appalachian Trail Outfitters for an excellent supply and friendly faces. Harrisonburg has a wellestablished hiking and biking community, where local shops offer not only gear they have tested and trusted, but friendly advice and shared stories. Locals are never too busy to share their favorite hike or advise you on the pros and cons of your chosen destination.

Try a flight at Pale Fire Brewing Company, photo courtesy of Virginia Tourism

Après Hike Have you gotten your fill of hiking for the day? Try fly fishing in the cool mountain waters or cycling the dedicated mountain bike terrain area with winding singletrack

Known as one of the most biodiverse areas in the world, there’s no be night out in nature than beside the Clinch River in Russell County, V Cleveland RiverBend Campground is a quiet getaway, perfect fo With both RV and primitive sites available, you can choose how you sleep restroom and shower facilities, as well as electric, water, and an onsite dum From the campground, access the walking trail and boardwalk tha Park via a suspension bridge. For more outdoor excursions, try the thr Tank Hollow Falls at Cleveland Barrens Natural Area Preserv at one of the nearby boat slips. Plan your upcoming trip around a local festival to experience the m culture of southwestern Virginia. From guided canoe trips and hikes to local craft drink tastings, Clinch River Days, scheduled for June 4-5, highlighting the rare and endangered freshwater mussels that call the s Or visit the following weekend and celebrate all things bluegrass, coun music at the Lebanon Cedar Fest, scheduled for June 12-13.

Camping Southeast the

A Charming Getaway to Alleghany Highlands, Va.

Whether you prefer a coa s ta l a dv en tu r e or a mountainous getawa y, ch eck ou t ou r roundup of the best cam p i n g op ti on s i n the region. From quiet b a ckcou n tr y s i tes and family-friendly campg r ou n ds to th e best of car camping and g l a m p i n g , we’ v e got a spot for every type of a dv en tu r er. Please check with locati on s p r i or to travel to make sure it is s a f e to v i s i t or use this guide to plan fu tu r e tr i p s wh en we can all be together a g a i n .

Hike Bearfence Mountain, photo courtesy of Virginia Tourism

and high-speed free ride slopes at Massanutten Resort with a chair lift back to the top for another round and incredible views of the Shenandoah Valley. Harrisonburg and Rockingham County are designated a Bronze Level Ride Center from the International Mountain Bicycling Association. After a day outside, relax at one of eight local craft breweries or enjoy dinner from one of the charming local restaurants. Downtown Harrisonburg, Virginia’s First Culinary District, offers a variety of great meals, from delicious sandwiches for the trail at Lola’s Deli to Capital Ale House, featuring an expansive beer menu. If you’re close to the national park, be sure to stop at Old 33 Beer and Burger Grill in Elkton, and then take the short trip to Grottoes to visit Grand Caverns, the oldest continually operated show cave in the United States. Pick up a Shenandoah Beerwerks Trail passport at any local brewery and, with eight stamps, you receive a free Beerwerks shirt. Look no further than Harrisonburg and Rockingham County for friendly people, cool small towns, and one of the best hubs for outdoor recreation. VisitHarrisonburgVA.com | VisitRockingham.com

PHOTO BY JOSHUA ANDERSON COURTESY OF UNSPLASH

Custom Advertorial

For beautiful mountain views, endless outdoor recreation opportunities, and unique camping locations, get away to the Alleghany Highlands of Virginia for time away from the crowds. Beaverdam Falls Outdoor Recreation & Camping is a new glamping venue with several scenic campsites. Sleep beside the 40-foot Beaverdam Falls as the creek tumbles into the basin below at the “Top of the Rock” site. Three other campsites provide a quiet spot among nature while the cottage on site offers a more traditional night of lodging with a kitchen, air conditioning, and heat. Explore the 60-acre property, including viewing the falls from the rope bridge, private trout fishing, and swimming in the cool mountain waters. Experience more of the outdoors with a bike ride on the Jackson River Scenic Trail or a picnic beside Humpback Bridge. As one of the six original Virginia parks, Douthat State Park is a classic camping spot surrounded by stunning scenery. Of the 87 tent and RV sites, Lakeside Campground is a favorite among visitors for its views of the water while Whispering Pines remains open all year and Beaver Dam is perfect for equestrian camping. An additional 32 cabins and three lodges provide space for larger groups wanting to enjoy the park together with kitchens and beds. While staying at the park, make sure to hike or bike the more than 40 miles of trails, ranging from easy to difficult, fish the lake for stocked trout, and swim at the beach area. Don’t forget to head into the nearby town of Clifton Forge for delicious eateries, fun shops, and evening entertainment. Get back to the camping basics at the Morris Hill Campground. Sitting on a ridge above Lake Moomaw, you’ll be surrounded by George Washington and Jefferson National Forests. Sit around the fire-ring roasting s’mores before climbing into your tent or RV for the night. During the day, the 2,500-acre lake invites you to jump in, fish for trout, and paddle the shoreline. There’s plenty of hiking and biking spots easily accessible from the campground while the Jackson River offers more miles for fly fishing and paddling. Plus, it’s just a short drive to Covington for a walk through downtown or out to the overlook at Falling Springs Falls off Route 220. No matter where you choose to set up camp for the night, discover what makes it Uniquely Alleghany when you visit this charming Virginia mountain community for yourself. VisitAlleghanyHighlands.com

ExperienceRussell.com

A Four-Season Destination in McDow

Regardless of the season, the Blue Ridge Mountains shine in McDow Numerous campgrounds make it an ideal location for those who prefe the action. Within Pisgah National Forest, Curtis Creek Campground beside a refreshing trout stream. The primitive sites are a short walk t Just off the Blue Ridge Parkway, two campsites offer a quiet place t night. Crabtree Falls Campground, located at Milepost 339.5, fea and RV sites with easy access to the 70-foot waterfall while Bear Den located at Milepost 324.8, offers camping options or cabin rentals wit pond and trails. Fall asleep to the sounds of the river at Catawba Falls Campgr views of Mount Mitchell from Sky Island Retreat. Cool off durin Hidden Creek Camping Resort, featuring a lake, creek, pool, and full day of fun, while spring and fall are the best times to pack your te of the bunk lodges at Camp Grier. A number of RV parks, includin Campground, Mountain Stream RV Park, Mountain Paradis and Tom Johnson Campground, provide a laid-back, family-frien

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As of November 2021

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