One of the most scenic features of this beautiful region is 7-mile long Chessie Nature Trail which runs through the heart of Rockbridge County, along the Maury River, connecting Lexington and Buena Vista. This pedestrian parkway is a laboratory where the hiker can see exposed the geological history of the region, study the local plants and animals, and find evidence of the human impact on the area. Some of the eastern United States' best preserved 19th century canal works are but a few feet off the trail.

One of RACC's first projects was obtaining and preserving public access to the Chesapeake and Ohio Railroad right-of-way which had been abandoned after Hurricane Camille destroyed the trestles and much of the track in 1969. RACC brought the potential of the right-of-way to the attention of the C&O Railroad, the Nature Conservancy, and the Virginia Commission on Outdoor Recreation. Thereafter, the Conservancy accepted deed to the property in December 1978 and transferred it to the VMI Foundation, Inc. on May 8, 1979.

Authorities on the trail environment--natural and man-made--have written introductory essays on their subjects and have provided suggestions for further study in Field Guide to the Chessie Nature Trail. This guide is a 208-page book with 140 illustrations including photographs, maps, and drawings. It is an indispensable tool for trail buffs--and those who wish to be. Please see RACC Publications for more information about the guide.

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updated 2007 April