Van Vugt is the founder of HikingUpward.com, a volunteer Web site that lends free information on local hiking trails in the Virginia and West Virginia area.
Why did you start Hiking Upward?
There didn’t seem to be a community-organized site for hikes and trails. Most of the sites in 2000 required some sort of payment for the information they provided. So a group of us had been hiking in the area since about 1982, and we decided to create a volunteer site with information on hikes in the area.
What first sparked your love for hiking?
I just love the outdoors. I’m originally from Australia, and when I moved here, I looked for places to hike in the Shenandoah Mountains. It’s a great place to spend a day and hike.
What hikes do you recommend for the fall season in Virginia?
The nicer hikes are in Shenandoah National Park. The standard and most popular hike in the mid-Atlantic region is Old Rag, because of its views. Other good hikes are Little Devil Stairs and White Oak Canyon.
What is your favorite hike in Virginia and why?
My personal favorite is Cold Mountain because you see huge meadows, which are very reminiscent of hiking in Europe. It’s a very beautiful and unique trail; good for a day hike. I think every trail has its own value. You can be surprised by the scenery viewed on any hike. Even in the D.C. area, there are plenty of trails. Scott’s Run trail has beautiful views of waterfalls and it’s right outside the Beltway.
Why do you think hiking is important?
It’s great for your health and it’s a low-impact sport that people can enjoy at the same time. Hiking is a matter of personal preference, but it’s important to know your limitations. I suggest if you are just starting out to go to the Manassas Battlefield trails. – Kristen Byrne
