Rockbridge County—From A to Z and Everything Inbetween!

Spring 2009 by Susan Irwin

Rockbridge County Tourism Information

Most folks head to Rockbridge County to see one of nature’s true wonders, the Natural Bridge. This 215-foot tall, 90-foot wide rock bridge was once owned by Thomas Jefferson, who described it as the most beautiful place in the world. It’s impossible not to experience a sense of awe and wonder here, as you consider the power of water, patiently carving its path through solid rock over hundreds of millions of years!

You reach the bridge by descending the 137 steps along Cascade Creek and Falls to Cedar Creek Gorge, then following Cedar Creek Trail as it winds its way under the towering arch. Alternatively, skip the steps and take the bus from the parking lot! Farther along the trail, listen for the sound of the Lost River. At the end of the trail, the beautiful Lace Falls awaits you, a luminous cascade of water tumbling 50 feet over rocks and pools to the creek below.

Just four miles north of the bridge, you’ll find Virginia Safari Park—the only drive-through animal park in the state. With 180 acres and more than 1,000 animals, there are three miles of winding safari roads to drive in your own car or explore on a guided safari wagon. You’ll encounter friendly bison, antelope, llamas, elk, zebras, camels, ostriches, and other critters anxious to take a snack from your feed bucket. The Safari Village here features monkeys, giant tortoises (and more!) and has a large petting area, too. You’ll love Tiger Territory, the Kangaroo Walkabout, Lorikeet Landing, and the Reptile House.

Within Rockbridge County lie two independent cities, Buena Vista (home of Glen Maury Park) and Lexington. Lexington, known for its history and quaint charm, was the pre-Civil War home of Gen. Thomas J. “Stonewall” Jackson, who served as a professor at Virginia Military Institute. Make time, while you’re in the area, to visit his home, now an excellent interpretive museum.

The streets of downtown Lexington are lined with clever boutiques, art galleries, quaint sandwich shops, fine dining restaurants, a recreational outfitter, a bike shop, a terrific wine shop, and even a chocolate shop. Enjoy a leisurely stroll, browsing the storefronts—and make room in your car for some new treasures!

From here it’s only a few blocks to Washington & Lee University. Robert E. Lee was president of the college after the Civil War and, with his family, is buried in the crypt at Lee Chapel & Museum. Virginia Military Institute is right next door. Guided walking tours start at the George C. Marshall Museum.

Take a walk on the peaceful and secluded Woods Creek Trail below the colleges; see the power of the Maury River at the Jordan’s Point dam; or wander the Chessie Nature Trail, a six-mile point-to-point hike linking Lexington and neighboring Buena Vista.

Great mountain and river views abound throughout Rockbridge County. You’ll discover a gorgeous and peaceful spot for a picnic or a quiet break along the Maury River, at the southern end of Buena Vista’s River Walk, near Glen Maury Park. The park is a great outdoor venue for music and sports. Camping, swimming, golf, tennis, skateboarding, fishing, ice cream, stargazing, and cloud watching are popular pastimes here all summer long.

Article text ©2009-2010, Shenandoah Specialty Publishing, LLC.
May be printed for personal use only.

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