Natural Bridge State Park

GENERAL INFO:

Park Type: State Park

Overall Size: Larger than a football field

Special Features/Comments: Once owned by Thomas Jefferson and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the 215-foot tall Natural Bridge is a limestone gorge carved out by Cedar Creek. The newest Virginia State Park is more than just the bridge. Beautiful forests, open, rolling meadows showcase the areau2019s karst terrain, and vistas of surrounding mountains and the James River valley display natureu2019s splendor. Access these via 6 miles of hiking trails, including the accessible Cedar Creek Trail that leads from the bridge to the Monacan Indian Village and Lace Falls with its 30-foot cascade. Living history programs connect you to the past and cover how people once used the areau2019s resources for survival and inspiration. Start at the visitor center where you will find exhibits and a gift shop.

GETTING THERE:

Parking

pDriving Directions: From I-81, take exit 175 or 180A to U.S. 11 and follow signs to the park.

Drive Time: Northern Virginia, three and a half hours; Richmond, two hours; Tidewater/Norfolk/Virginia Beach, four hours; Roanoke, 30 minutes.

ACTIVITIES/RECREATION OPPORTUNITIES:

Trails, Birdwatching, ADA Accessible

AMENITIES:

General Park Amenities: Restrooms, Drinking Fountains, Seating, Picnic Tables, Food for Sale, ADA Accessible

Pets: Allowed On-Leash

Additional Features: Visitor Center, Historic Site, Gift Shop, ADA Accessible

Trash Cans: Yes

Food for Sale Type: Snack Shop, Gift Shop

TRAILS:

Trail Description: More than 6 miles of hiking trails wind through the park providing a glimpse of nature. The Cedar Creek Trail is universally accessible and goes under the Natural Bridge to the Monacan Village, Lost River and Lace Falls. The nearly 2 miles of Buck Hill Trail and more than 3 miles of the Monacan Trail offer spectacular views of the Blue Ridge and Appalachian Mountains. Pack a lunch to take along and enjoy many scenic vistas. Cedar Creek Trail access beyond the bridge is limited during winter; call before arriving for details.

Trail Activities: Walking, Hiking, Running/Jogging, Bicycling, Dog Walking, Birdwatching

Trail Difficulty: Easy, Moderate

Trail Layout: Loop & Linear (network)

Trail Length: 5 to 10 miles

Trail Shade: Some

Trail Width: 8-12 ft

Trail Extras: Benches/Rest Areas, Panoramic Views, Historic Sites

OTHER:

Programming Available: Education/Ranger Programs, Junior Ranger Programs

Park Information: Maps, Brochures

Staffing & Safety: Employee/Ranger Present, Ranger Patrol

Open Space Activities: Go for a walk or jog, Have a picnic

Open Space Size: Larger than one football field in size

Open Space Shade: Some

Natural Water Feature: Creek/Stream