Goshen Pass Natural Area Preserve

The 936-acre natural area encompasses a 3.7-mile gorge along the Maury River, featuring steep cliffs, dense forests, and flowing waterways at an elevation of 1,500 feet.

The Commonwealth of Virginia first acquired this land in 1954, making it the oldest state-managed natural area, and officially designated it as a preserve in 2001.

The preserve maintains educational programs through partnerships with local organizations, fostering understanding of Virginia's natural heritage and ecological conservation principles.

Visitors aged 17 and older must obtain a Wildlife Management Area Access Permit to use the parking facilities, available through the Department of Wildlife Resources.

The preserve contains rare plant communities including freshwater cordgrass and provides essential habitat for the Appalachian jewelwing damselfly, a locally uncommon species.

Location: Virginia

Inception: 2001

GPS coordinates: 37.93990,-79.43400

Latest update: April 19, 2025 08:22