There are extensive paths through the nature reserve both for walking and for cycling, and there is a separate route for cars.

The reserve was set up in 1975 for the protection and display of the diversity of species, both plant and animal, which are characteristic of Latvia.

The Gauja river valley contains distinctive geological formations, forests and meadow plants.

Particularly significant places are Jumpraviezis rock, Katrīniezis rock, Gūdu cliffs and one of the country's rare sandstone canyons: Paparžu grava ("Fern Glen"), known for its ferns.

Līgatne has numerous caves in vertical sandstone banks, that were dug as cellars for paper mill workers during the time of the Russian Empire.