Goshen Pass

Goshen Pass is a narrow gorge where the Maury River cuts through Little North Mountain, about twenty minutes northwest of Lexington along Route 39. The road runs beside the river for several miles, and pull-offs let you stop at boulder-strewn rapids, quiet pools and picnic areas shaded by hemlock, sycamore and rhododendron. It is part of the broader mountain and forest country that Virginia promotes as the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, and it has long been a favorite for local families who come for a cool dip, a picnic or a short walk to a swinging bridge across the water. In late spring the rhododendron blooms add splashes of pink and white, and in autumn the hillsides turn red and gold. It is simple, free outdoor fun, with no ticket booths or crowds in the way. Conditions vary with rain and season, so treat it as a natural area rather than a managed attraction.

The drive is half the pleasure. Route 39 curves with the river, and the cliffs rise steeply, giving a canyon feeling that surprises many visitors. Drive slowly, use designated pull-offs and watch for pedestrians, cyclists and cars entering and leaving the roadside parking. Pick a spot where the shore is easy to reach, and be cautious about slippery rocks and fast water after rain. The Maury can run high, and drowning is a real risk when the river is swollen, so heed any posted warnings and avoid swimming in strong current.

Short walks are the best way to enjoy it. Wander along the riverbank, cross the swinging bridge where it is open, and look for places to sit on the rocks and listen to the water. Bring a picnic, water and a towel for wading, and pack out whatever you bring.

Facilities are limited, so plan restroom stops in Lexington or nearby towns. Because the area is popular on summer weekends, arrive early to find parking and a quiet spot, and consider a weekday visit for solitude. Dogs are common, but follow rules and keep them leashed.

The pass fits neatly with other Lexington outdoors. Combine it with a morning on the Chessie Trail, an afternoon at the safari park or a drive toward Natural Bridge, and finish with dinner downtown. In spring, check for the timing of the rhododendron bloom; in autumn, aim for peak color. Winter visits can be beautiful but may involve ice or road hazards, so check conditions. Whatever the season, go with realistic expectations: this is a scenic, informal natural area, ideal for a relaxed afternoon, not a polished park with tours.

For safety, scout a spot before you settle in. Look at the water level, the speed of the current and the footing on the rocks, and keep children within arm's reach. Cell service can be weak in the gorge, so tell someone where you are going. If the weather turns, leave the water at the first sign of thunder, because lightning in a narrow gorge is a real hazard and the road can be slick after downpours.

Respect the place by leaving it as you found it. Pack out all trash, avoid carving rocks or trees and keep music low so others can enjoy the sound of the river. Visit midweek in summer if you can, and consider arriving before ten in the morning to claim a good parking spot. The reward is a simple, restorative afternoon beside moving water, which many travelers remember long after the museums have blurred together.