Goshen Pass

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Campus Life

Rock climbing is no longer allowed in the DCR Goshen Pass Natural Heritage Area Preserve. Please see the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation website for more information.

Map of a route from Lexington to Goshen Pass following Route 39 pass the Virginia Horse Center

Goshen Pass has been used for years. However, the pass remains relatively, undeveloped despite all its potential. There is a tremendous amount of top roping and many bouldering problems. Most of the climbing areas are easily accessible, however, Castle Rock does require a river crossing. The rock quality through the pass (sandstone) is excellent. Most of the faces are 25-100feet and can easily be top roped. There is limited sport and trad climbing. Some of the best climbing can be done on boulders that litter the entire pass. We’ve broken this into four areas: Castle Rock Left, Castle Rock Right, Maury River Wall and Chambers Ridge.

Directions

Take US 11 North out of Lexington. After driving I-64 turn left onto Route 39 to Goshen Pass. Drive approximately 17 miles. Along the way you’ll pass the Virginia Horse Center and Rockbridge Baths.

Castle Rock Left

The only way to access Castle Rock is to ford the Maury (Do not try t take the private drive on the opposite side of the river). Climb the steep scree slope up to the base of the cliffs. Two of the best climbs in Goshen Pass are on Castle Rock Left: Devil’s Cabana Boy and Disco Stu.

Castle Rock Left

Castle Rock Right

This large face is easily seen from the road. This face has been fractured by geological processes, however, huge exposure and commanding views are the rewards for climbing this side of Castle Rock.