Goshen Pass is Virginia's oldest state-managed natural area. Located in Rockbridge County, about 10 miles north of Lexington, the Commonwealth first acquired the property in 1954 to help protect the spectacular views of the 3.7-mile long gorge along the Maury River. More recently a number of biological treasures were discovered on the property. Among them are outstanding examples of chestnut oak forest, pine-oak-heath woodland, rocky riverside scrub communities, a state-rare damselfly called the Appalachian jewelwing, and several rare plants. The preserve, which encompasses the southwest face of the gorge, was dedicated as a State Natural Area Preserve in 2001.
On the way to Goshen Pass, we found this swinging bridge maintained by the Virginia Department of Transportation on route 39. We both ventured out there DL went a little further than I did. He was a brave soul. The bridge sways with each step, I turned back when one of the boards cracked under my foot.
Great post Bob and fantastic images!
ReplyDeleteThis little photo safari of ours was great fun, and the lunch that you provided was delicious!