Goshen Pass Natural Area Preserve wilderness guide
Natural Area Preserve · VA
Wildlife%20Viewing Guide

Goshen Pass Natural Area Preserve

Goshen Pass Natural Area Preserve is a scenic outdoor destination in Virginia known for its rugged mountain vistas and the flowing Maury River, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts looking to hike, fish, or take in the natural beauty.

Natural Area Preserve9362+ Trails

Designation

Natural Area Preserve

Total Wilderness Area

936

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Goshen Pass Natural Area Preserve

Goshen Pass Natural Area Preserve is a scenic outdoor destination in Virginia known for its rugged mountain vistas and the flowing Maury River, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts looking to hike, fish, or take in the natural beauty.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Goshen Pass Natural Area Preserve is located in Rockbridge County, Virginia, and is revered for its dramatic mountain landscapes and the serpentine Maury River. The area is a prime location for those interested in outdoor recreation and natural beauty. It offers various hiking opportunities along with fishing and kayaking chances in the river. The preserve is home to unique geological formations and a diverse ecology including rich hemlock and pine forests. Historically, the area has been a popular picnic site and serves as an excellent spot for nature study. Goshen Pass offers naturalists and hikers the opportunity to explore a biologically diverse environment that plays host to rare plant populations. Its rugged trails take visitors through thick forests and provide spectacular views of the Maury River and its surrounding cliffs.

Field Guide · Natural Area Preserve
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Goshen Pass Natural Area Preserve

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Scenic views from the overlook adjacent to the Maury River.✦ Dense forests with rare plant species and diverse wildlife.✦ Opportunities for fishing in the Maury River, particularly known for smallmouth bass.✦ The challenging Goshen Pass Trail offering panoramic views.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Goshen Pass Natural Area Preserve

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Goshen Pass Natural Area Preserve.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access; no permits required.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Goshen Pass Natural Area Preserve

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Rockbridge Baths, Virginia
⌖ 3.06 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Rockbridge Baths, Virginia

Rockbridge Baths is a peaceful Virginia town known for its mineral springs and outdoor opportunities along the Maury River. Ideal for hiking, paddling, fishing, and camping, it offers a quiet escape near the Blue Ridge foothills.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Millboro, Virginia
⌖ 8.46 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Millboro, Virginia

Millboro, VA is an off-the-beaten-path escape in the Alleghany Mountains. Ideal for hikers, anglers, and bird watchers, its serene landscape offers adventure and tranquility.

Fall
Explore Town
Lexington, Virginia
⌖ 9.52 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lexington, Virginia

Lexington, VA offers a blend of rich history and outdoor adventure in the scenic Shenandoah Valley. Perfect for hiking, biking, and kayaking, it's an offbeat gem for nature enthusiasts.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Buena Vista, Virginia
⌖ 14.16 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Buena Vista, Virginia

Buena Vista, Virginia, offers outdoor lovers easy access to mountain hiking, paddling the scenic Maury and James Rivers, and camping in nearby national forests. It’s a quiet basecamp for exploring the Blue Ridge’s natural beauty.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Vesuvius, Virginia
⌖ 14.58 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Vesuvius, Virginia

Vesuvius, Virginia offers quiet forest adventures ideal for hiking, biking, and camping in the George Washington National Forest. Its remote setting and beautiful mountain views make it a peaceful escape for outdoor lovers.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Montebello, Virginia
⌖ 18.31 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Montebello, Virginia

Montebello, Virginia offers a peaceful outdoor playground for hikers, paddlers, and wildlife lovers. With access to rugged trails, quiet rivers, and dense forests, it’s a prime spot for backpacking, bird watching, and camping under starry Appalachian skies.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Goshen Pass Natural Area Preserve

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Douthat State Park - Bath County, VA
ADVEXPEDITION
Millboro, Virginia
Guided TourADV Bookable

Douthat State Park - Bath County, VA

Discover scenic horseback riding at Douthat State Park in Virginia, led by Let’s Ride Horses. Ride through lush forests and pristine lakes in this unforgettable outdoor experience.

Guided TourAges 16 and up • 3-4 Hour RideCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Cave Tour - General Admission
ADVEXPEDITION
Lewisburg, West Virginia
Self-Guided TourADV Bookable

Cave Tour - General Admission

Descend into the mesmerizing underground world of Lost World Caverns in Lewisburg. This self-guided tour reveals stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and mineral formations—perfect for an unforgettable geological adventure. Experience the wonder of nature hidden beneath West Virginia’s surface with a visit to Lost World Caverns, where geology and adventure meet in a safe, accessible setting. With its impressive formations and steady climate, this site stands out for those seeking a unique underground journey close to Lewisburg. Whether you're a geology enthusiast or a curious family, the cavern’s well-maintained trails and informative signage ensure an engaging visit. Discover one of West Virginia’s geological gems, where each turn offers a new visual story etched in stone, making every trip a personally curated adventure beneath the earth. This experience is ideal for travelers of all ages, providing a fascinating glimpse into Earth’s natural history without requiring technical skills or strenuous effort. Plan for a couple of hours underground, and come prepared with comfortable shoes and layered clothing — the cave maintains a consistent 52 degrees Fahrenheit all year round.

Self-Guided TourCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Private Room
ADVEXPEDITION
Glasgow, Virginia
LodgingADV Bookable

Private Room

Find your perfect retreat near the James River Footbridge with Stanimals328 Hostel’s inviting private room. Unwind after your outdoor adventures with thoughtful amenities designed for comfort and convenience.

LodgingStarting at $85• Ages 18+ • Get a Little Space!Certified Outfitter
From$85
Book Trip