About
Maury River, Virginia — 1864 Battle of Goshen Pass, 1740s-1750s Frontier, 1973 Goshen Pass Natural Area Preserve, Rockbridge. Through Rockbridge County's limestone valleys, the Maury River builds from mountain tributaries to a 680 CFS flow that joins the James after 60 miles of Class I-III water. Goshen Pass cuts the signature three-mile gorge section with Class II-III rapids between towering rock walls — Virginia designated this stretch as Goshen Pass State Natural Area for its geological significance. Below the pass, the river mellows through Lexington with Class I-II water suitable for heritage floats past Civil War sites. The final stretch to the James River confluence opens into wide valley farmland with Class I riffles and long pools. At optimal flows of 300-2000 CFS (gauge 02024000), the Maury rewards paddlers across skill levels, though the Goshen Pass section demands solid boat control above 1000 CFS. Twin River Outfitters runs commercial trips on the main sections. Virginia's Scenic River designation protects key corridors along the 60-mile run.
River conditions are community-verified. CFS ranges, difficulty ratings, and access points may not reflect every flow level or seasonal change. Always check current conditions, scout unfamiliar rapids, and paddle within your skill level.