Goshen Pass Maury River Swimming Spots
Swimming hole in Lexington, Virginia · River
Find family-friendly swimming and tubing spots in Goshen Pass, VA. Get directions, safety info, and tips for visiting these scenic Maury River areas.
About Goshen Pass Maury River Swimming Spots
Tucked into the ridges of the Allegheny Highlands in western Virginia, Goshen Pass is one of those places that feels like a secret even when you're standing right in the middle of it. The Maury River carves through a dramatic limestone gorge here, flanked by steep forested walls that rise sharply on both sides, creating a natural corridor of shade, rushing water, and breathtaking scenery. Route 39 — a designated Virginia Scenic Byway — threads right alongside the river, making this one of the most accessible wild swimming corridors in the state.
The Setting and Landscape
The gorge itself sets the mood before you even step out of the car. In summer, the tree canopy overhead filters sunlight into green-gold ripples on the water's surface. In spring, wildflowers push through the rocky banks and rhododendron blooms crowd the riverbank in spectacular purple and white clusters. Come autumn, the ridgelines erupt in color — deep reds, burnt oranges, and amber yellows that reflect in the river below. Even in winter, the bare gorge has a stark, serene beauty that draws visitors seeking solitude. Throughout the year, the Maury River remains a constant, moving with a quiet confidence that only a river cutting through ancient rock can manage.
Swimming, Tubing, and the Water Itself
The Maury River offers a generous variety of water experiences along this stretch. Deep, calm pools invite you to wade in and float, while sections of gentle rapids provide natural body surfing runs and lazy tubing passages that feel tailor-made for a summer afternoon. The river runs clear over a rocky bottom, and the current keeps the water refreshingly cool even in the height of July. Multiple pull-offs along Route 39 give you easy access to different sections — you can walk the bank and scout your preferred spot before committing. This unofficial character means the experience feels genuinely wild. There are no facilities here, no concession stands, no lifeguards, and no crowds managing your experience. You bring what you need and leave only footprints.
Practical
The experience
- Best time to visit Summer for swimming and tubing, spring for blooming wildflowers, autumn for fall foliage, winter for serene landscapes.
- Access Easy access from Route 39 with visible parking spots and minimal hiking required.
- Facilities No facilities available; visitors should bring their own supplies and plan accordingly.
- Camping nearby Closest is Lake Robertson County Park, near Lexington and Collierstown. Nicely developed, wooded county campground, near Lexington, VA. Go West on I-64 from Lexington and take Rt 60 and Rt 646 to Collierstown. Claytor Lake S.P is nearby, also has swimming lake.
Highlights & features
- Scenic gorge along the Maury River
- Numerous swimming and tubing spots
- Virginia Scenic Byway drive
- Historic and geological significance
- Family-friendly outdoor activities
- Unspoiled natural beauty with no facilities
- Designated Virginia Scenic Byway
- Deep swimming pools and gentle rapids for tubing
How to get there
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Goshen Pass, Maury River, near Lexington, Virginia Coordinates
Latitude 37.92876, Longitude -79.44124 Google Maps Link: Goshen Pass Location
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Step-by-Step Driving Directions
From I-81: Take
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Exit 191 for I-64 West toward Lexington/Charleston. On I-64 West
Continue for approximately 10 miles and take
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Exit 55 for Route 11 North toward Lexington. Onto Route 39: Follow signs for Route 39 West and turn onto it. Drive approximately 7 miles west on Route 39.
Intersection with Route 252: At the intersection of Route 39 and Route 252 , reset your odometer for reference. Continue west on Route 39 toward Goshen Pass.
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Entering Goshen Pass
After passing the small town of Wilson Springs (about 2 miles beyond Rockbridge Baths), the road will begin to follow the Maury River and enter a scenic gorge. This stretch of Route 39 is a Virginia Scenic Byway and offers stunning views. Swimming Spots and Parking: From the Wilson Springs sign , drive approximately 1.3 miles to find several parking areas along the road. Alternatively, measure 5.2 miles from the Route 252/Route 39 intersection to reach these parking spots. Look for pull-off areas on the side of the road, which provide access to the river. There are approximately 15–20 parking spaces scattered along this stretch. Swimming Hole Details: The river features deep sections (up to 6 feet in some areas), small rapids for sliding, and rocks suitable for jumping into the water. These spots are family-friendly and visible from the road, making them easy to locate.
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Additional Notes
The area is popular during the summer, so arrive early to secure parking. Be cautious when swimming or jumping into the river, as water levels and currents can vary. The drive through Goshen Pass is exceptionally scenic, so take your time and enjoy the views. Coordinates for GPS Navigation: Latitude: 37.92876 Longitude: -79.44124
Plan your visit
Goshen Pass sits close to Lexington, Virginia, one of the most charming small cities in the Shenandoah Valley and a worthy base for your trip. Lexington offers restaurants, lodging, and a historic downtown worth exploring before or after your time on the river. If you're looking to camp, Lake Robertson County Park near Collierstown provides a nicely developed, wooded campground a short drive away. From Lexington, head west on I-64, then follow Route 60 and Route 646 toward Collierstown. Claytor Lake State Park is also within the broader region and offers additional swimming and camping options for those extending their adventure.
Goshen Pass sits close to Lexington, Virginia, one of the most charming small cities in the Shenandoah Valley and a worthy base for your trip. Lexington offers restaurants, lodging, and a historic downtown worth exploring before or after your time on the river. If you're looking to camp, Lake Robertson County Park near Collierstown provides a nicely developed, wooded campground a short drive away. From Lexington, head west on I-64, then follow Route 60 and Route 646 toward Collierstown. Claytor Lake State Park is also within the broader region and offers additional swimming and camping options for those extending their adventure.
Access & fees
This is an unofficial, natural area with no facilities, restrooms, or lifeguards. Parking is limited to roadside pull-offs with approximately 15-20 spaces total; arriving early on summer weekends is advised. There is no stated fee for access.
This is an unofficial, natural area with no facilities, restrooms, or lifeguards. Parking is limited to roadside pull-offs with approximately 15-20 spaces total; arriving early on summer weekends is advised. There is no stated fee for access.
Frequently asked questions
Is Goshen Pass Maury River Swimming Spots free to visit?
Goshen Pass Maury River Swimming Spots may require a fee or pass. Reported fee: No. Fees and hours change seasonally — verify current pricing with the managing agency before your visit.
Is swimming allowed at Goshen Pass Maury River Swimming Spots?
Yes, Goshen Pass Maury River Swimming Spots is an officially sanctioned recreation area where swimming is permitted. Reported activities include: Swimming, Tubing, Body surfing rapids. Always respect posted closures and seasonal restrictions.
What type of swimming spot is Goshen Pass Maury River Swimming Spots?
Goshen Pass Maury River Swimming Spots is a river on Maury River located in VA, near LEXINGTON. Find family-friendly swimming and tubing spots in Goshen Pass, VA. Get directions, safety info, and tips for visiting these scenic Maury River areas.
When is the best time to visit Goshen Pass Maury River Swimming Spots?
The best time to visit Goshen Pass Maury River Swimming Spots is Summer for swimming and tubing, spring for blooming wildflowers, autumn for fall foliage, winter for serene landscapes.. Water levels, clarity, and temperature vary with recent weather — always check conditions before going, especially after rain or snowmelt.
What facilities are available at Goshen Pass Maury River Swimming Spots?
Reported facilities at Goshen Pass Maury River Swimming Spots include: No facilities available; visitors should bring their own supplies and plan accordingly.. Amenities can change — contact the managing agency or check recent visitor reports to confirm current availability.
Is camping available near Goshen Pass Maury River Swimming Spots?
Closest is Lake Robertson County Park, near Lexington and Collierstown. Nicely developed, wooded county campground, near Lexington, VA. Go West on I-64 from Lexington and take Rt 60 and Rt 646 to Collierstown. Claytor Lake S.P is nearby, also has swimming lake.
Nearby swimming holes
Culture & history
The Maury River is named after Matthew Fontaine Maury, a prominent oceanographer and native Virginian. The area reflects the Shenandoah Valley's rich history and natural heritage.
Conservation
Practice Leave No Trace principles, avoid littering, and respect wildlife to preserve the area’s ecological integrity.