Walk, Ride, Paddle: A Life Outside – Book Signing and Conversation with Senator Tim Kaine and Beth Macy

Please note: We have reached capacity for the seated conversation portion of this event. We still encourage you to stop by beginning at 4 pm to pick up a book and enjoy the free concert, though!

In 2019, Tim Kaine—Virginia Senator and former Democratic vice presidential candidate—commemorated both his sixtieth birthday and his twenty-fifth year in public office by undertaking a three-part journey across the Virginia landscape as he hiked, cycled, and canoed across the state. 

His new book Walk, Ride, Paddle: A Life Outside is a chronicle of the journey that became an organic reflection of the extraordinary events occurring across America during that time, including impeachment trials, a global pandemic, growing racial protests, the January 6th attack on the Capitol, and more.

During weekends and in Senate recess weeks, Kaine—over a period of several years—hikes the 559 miles of the Appalachian Trail that cross Virginia from Harpers Ferry to the Tennessee border; bikes 321 miles along the crest of the Virginia Blue Ridge on the beautiful parkways built during the Great Depression to create jobs and give everyday people on the East Coast an accessible place to vacation; and canoes the entire James River—348 miles from its headwaters in the Allegheny Mountains to its entrance into the Chesapeake Bay.

Along the way, Kaine reflects on the monumental events that have shaped both his life and the world around him, sharing his deep love for the natural world and the importance of preserving it for future generations in a fascinating memoir that blends adventure, reflection, and political insight.

Walk, Ride, Paddle is a captivating and compelling memoir of one man’s physical journey through the Virginia wilderness—but it is also a unique and ultimately optimistic perspective on these pivotal moments in history, offering inspiration, wisdom, and hope.

In honor of Earth Day, join Senator Kaine and Roanoke’s own bestselling author Beth Macy (Dopesick, Raising Lazarus) for a conversation about his new book, his time as a Senator, and his experiences in Virginia’s beautiful outdoors.

Senator Kaine will sign books following the conversation, and Galax-based musician Stevie Barr will give a rousing bluegrass performance in the Atrium.

This is an afternoon you don’t want to miss!