We Bet You Didn’t Know There Was A Miniature Natural Bridge In West Virginia

Natural bridges aren't so common. There is a famous one near West Virginia that carries Route 11 over Cedar Creek in (you guessed it) Natural Bridge, Virginia. But are there any natural bridges in West Virginia? You betcha. There are several, but perhaps the longest and most impressive is the natural bridge in Roane County, West Virginia.

The approximately 100-foot-long natural bridge in Roane County, West Virginia doesn't carry a state highway over its arch, but an old rural route did once run over its top.

That road is now a hiking path, and adventurous, respectful pedestrians can use it to pay a visit to this unique natural wonder in West Virginia.

This somewhat miniature natural bridge (it's hard to call 100 feet too small!) is made of sandstone that was worn away underneath and along the sides (where it was softer) by rain and running water to form a natural arch from the core of harder sandstone -- a process called differential weathering.

To find the natural bridge in Roane County, West Virginia, turn onto Natural Bridge Road from Little Lefthand Road near Left Hand, West Virginia and follow it for 0.2 miles to a gravel parking area on the left.

Note that the parking area, the trail, and the natural bridge are all on private property.

The owners are extremely gracious about allowing hikers to visit this unique natural wonder; please be respectful of their generosity by practicing leave no trace principles when you visit.

Stay on the trail, pack out every bit of your trash, and don't mar or deface any of the sandstone boulders and cliffs that fill the area.

Did you know that such a unique natural wonder was hiding here in rural Roane County? Have you been?

YouTube user Exploration Appalachian captured some stunning video footage of a fall visit to this natural arch.

If you have ever made the trek to the unique sandstone natural bridge in Roane County, West Virginia, a few miles outside of the small community of Left Hand, then you know it's worth the trip. Again, if you hike to this impressive natural wonder, please be respectful of the property owners by leaving no trace of your visit. A visit to this natural bridge puts you not too far from Spencer, a small West Virginia town that's also well worth a visit!