Tucked away in the heart of Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley is a natural wonder so impressive it could make even the most seasoned traveler do a double take—the mighty Natural Bridge. The park offers scenic hiking trails, including the Cedar Creek Trail, which takes you beneath the bridge and past a serene waterfall. We finally got to check it out last fall, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint! Here is everything you need to know to have a great time during your visit to Natural Bridge State Park.
You will be immediately greeted by that crisp, woodsy air. The Visitors Center opens daily from 10am to 5pm but you don’t need access to it in order to visit the Natural Bridge or hiking trails. Behind the visitors center you’ll find a staircase with 137 steps-people take their time on these going up as well as down. It’s important to mention that accommodations for accesibility can be made in advance by contacting the park rangers or making your request through the Visitors Center. At the end of the staircase you’ll find the Trail Store, which opens daily from 8am to dusk and you can buy your admission tickets there. The cost of the tickets are $6 for kids under 13 years old and $9. for anyone older. Hikers need to be off the trails by a half hour after sunset.
Also important is that pets are welcome in enclosed areas or on a leash no longer than 6 feet. Pets on a leash are also permitted inside the visitor center.
Natural Bridge beauty
A quick, scenic walk led us through a canopy of towering trees, and then, there it was. At 200 feet tall and 90 feet across, this limestone behemoth is the tallest in North America and looked like something straight out of a fantasy movie. Honestly, if someone had told me a secret society of druids met there under the full moon, I would’ve believed them.
Walking beneath the bridge felt like stepping onto the set of an epic adventure film. Looking up, I was hit with that “wow, I am so tiny” feeling that only nature’s grandest creations can provide. Fun fact: Thomas Jefferson actually owned this place at one point! Imagine casually owning a giant rock bridge—must be nice.
The surrounding trails were just as magical. The Natural Bridge hike is rated as “easy” and is only one mile. There are three other trails in the park. The Blue Ridge Trail, Buck Hill Trail, and the Skyline Trail, at 4, 2 and 1.3 miles respectively which provide different levels of difficulty and things to see. Strolling down Cedar Creek Trail, we stumbled upon Lace Falls. This lovely little waterfall that was doing its best to be the star of the show. Birds chirped, water gurgled, and for a moment, it felt like I had wandered into an enchanted forest.
One of the best parts of the visit? The ranger talk. This guy knew his stuff and told us all about the bridge’s geology, history, and cultural significance. Turns out, indigenous peoples considered it a sacred site long before early settlers came along and started taking selfies in front of it.
Where to Stay?
There are other options for accommodations like the Natural Bridge Historical Hotel, the Natural Bridge State Park and other campgrounds. We chose to stay at the KOA Holiday in Lexington. It proved to be an excellent choice for both convenience and outdoor adventure. This KOA is situated just a short drive from Natural Bridge State Park. In addition to its proximity to this natural wonder, the campground is also conveniently located near Interstate 95. Making it an ideal stop for RV travelers looking for easy access to a well-equipped campground without straying too far from their route. Whether you’re passing through or planning to explore the area, this KOA provides a comfortable and strategically located base for your adventures.
Eating out
Before heading back, we made a pit stop at a cozy little café nearby for a well-earned meal. There are a couple of nice places to go depending on your budget. To mention a few, there is The Colonial Dining Room at the Natural Bridge Historic Hotel or the Pink Cadillac which is a popular spot and for an inexpensive option there is the Natural Bridge General Store and Cafe. Nothing like a good sandwich to top off a day of hiking, history, and unexpected geology lessons. As I sat there reflecting on the trip, it became obvious why Natural Bridge has been wowing visitors for centuries. It’s the perfect mix of jaw-dropping scenery, fascinating history, and that peaceful, “wow, life is pretty awesome” vibe.
Final thoughts
So, if you’re looking for an adventure that includes a giant rock bridge, waterfalls, and a history lesson from a guy in a cool hat, Natural Bridge in Virginia, is calling your name. And trust me—you’ll want to answer.
Have you been to Natural Bridge or will you be visiting soon? Let me know either way! ⬇️
Other Resources:
Natural Bridge Historic Hotel and Conference Center
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