Walter and I have visited Goshen Pass in the spring and summer months, but last year we decided to go in autumn to see the fabulous fall colors reflecting in the river and adorning the forest-covered mountains. We traveled an hour north on I-81 from Roanoke to Lexington, Virginia, and another twenty miles northwest to Goshen Pass Natural Area Preserve in Rockbridge County. The foliage along Maury River Road was bursting with the vibrant colors of oaks in the fall, accented by towering pines and wildflowers. When we reached the gorge, the landscape was twice as stunning in the fall as our previous visits in warmer weather.

We stopped at the first pull-off, which overlooks the Maury River nestled in the steep slopes of the Appalachian Mountains. After taking pictures of this magnificent 3.7-mile-long gorge, we continued our drive to the scenic picnic area, where we walked down to the river to while away the day by the water with mountains all around us. People were fishing or wading in the river on this sunny autumn day, while others sat on the rocks, catching the afternoon rays. The Natural Area Preserve is ideal for hiking, birding, wildlife viewing, fishing, swimming, picnicking, and photography. Upriver, kayakers and canoers will find white-water rapids to conquer.

To me, the most striking sight at Goshen Pass is the expanse of rocks and boulders along the riverbank. The slippery, uneven rocks can be a challenge to navigate on the way to the river’s edge, but their rugged beauty contrasts beautifully with the clear, calming waters.

Later in the day, we drove to the northwest corner of the preserve to the swinging bridge, a steel suspension bridge over the Maury River. The wobbly bridge can be an adventure in itself to walk across and view the river below. Many come to this area to begin the harrowing Goshen Pass/Jump Rock hiking trail, a 9.1-mile loop that begins at the bridge and follows the river to the south.

Every time we visit Goshen Pass, we promise ourselves that we will come back soon. The gorge changes with the seasons and is a delightful day trip any time of year.