There's Nothing Quite As Magical As The Rock Bridge You'll Find At Natural Bridge State Park In Virginia
By Beth|Updated on September 06, 2023(Originally published October 28, 2021)
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Beth
Author
A lifelong Virginia resident, Beth loves exploring different parts of the world and currently resides in Charlottesville. She holds a degree in English Literature and one of her short stories has been featured in the Shenandoah Review. Other interests include hiking, songwriting, and spending time in the mountains.
Virginia is filled with unique geological formations, and at the top of the list is Natural Bridge. The 215-foot limestone bridge is truly a sight to behold and is bound to impress any kind of nature enthusiast. Today, the rock bridge is the centerpiece of Natural Bridge State Park. One of the state’s newest parks, Natural Bridge State Park is characterized by lush hardwood forests and endless rolling meadows. You could easily spend an entire day enjoying all that this natural wonder has to offer. When we visited this park we ended up staying a lot longer than anticipated and yet we kept finding amazing places to explore.
Driving through Rockbridge County is an idyllic experience. With beautiful rolling hills and views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this region is one of the most beautiful in all of Virginia.
We found this area to be very easily accessible too. Interstate 81 runs right through the county and the crown jewel in this beautiful part of the country of course is Natural Bridge.
Rockbridge County is named for one of its most remarkable natural features: a giant rock bridge, more commonly known as Natural Bridge.
There is a certain excitement as you walk down the stone staircase leading to this geological wonderland. When you round the corner this massive bridge towers over the river with a pathway leading through it. Prepare to have your breath taken away because in our experience this bridge simply blew us away.
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The giant limestone gorge was carved out by Cedar Creek, which you can see photographed below. It's incredible to think that water could create such a dramatic carving!
We have done the Lace Creek Via Ceder Creek Trail before and would highly recommend it. Follow the path that leads you through Natural Bridge itself, and follow along for a great adventure. Marvel at the stone walls, the fluttering butterflies, a cave you can explore, bridges, and a waterfall. The whole trail is an out-and-back 2-mile hike and is very flat and well worth it.
In addition to the bridge itself, the park includes six miles of hiking trails, stunning mountain vistas, Lace Falls, and the Monacan Living History Exhibit.
The living history exhibit tells the story of the Native Americans who first lived in the region and how they used the natural resources for both survival and inspiration. You can learn more about the Monacan Indian Living History Exhibit before you go, but the best way to experience it is to simply immerse yourself in the history. Explore the buildings in the village and truly get a chance to walk through history.
No matter the season you choose to visit, you'll find that this natural wonder is truly one of the most magical in Virginia.
Have you ever visited Natural Bridge State Park in Virginia? What was your experience there like? Be sure to share with us in the comments below! If you are interested in learning more about this wonderful park make sure to check out the Natural Bridge State Park website then watch this Adventuring in the Moment video to get a full picture of what this park really looks like.
