Natural Bridge State Park
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Location
6477 South Lee Highway, Natural Bridge, Virginia
Signature feature
A limestone arch about 200 feet tall
Trail highlight
Cedar Creek Trail to Lace Falls
Plan ahead
Check current access, hours and fees with the park
Natural Bridge State Park centers on a towering limestone arch above Cedar Creek, in a gorge carved by the water. The park’s wooded trails, meadows and mountain views make it more than a quick stop for a photograph: allow time to walk the creek corridor and explore beyond the bridge. The park lists about 10 miles of hiking trails, with Cedar Creek Trail leading beneath the arch toward Lace Falls. [1]
The bridge has drawn visitors for centuries and is associated with Thomas Jefferson, who once owned it. Today the Commonwealth stewards the park and surrounding land. Start at the visitor center for exhibits and orientation, then check current conditions before setting out: reaching the bridge involves a stairway, and trail access and services can vary. [2][3]
Plan a trip to Natural Bridge State Park
Why visit Natural Bridge State Park?
The arch is the main event: a remarkable natural formation best appreciated from below, where the scale of the rock and the creek-cut gorge come into view. The walk also puts visitors in a landscape of forest, stream and exposed limestone, with a waterfall farther along Cedar Creek Trail.
The park suits both a focused landmark visit and a longer outdoor outing. Combine the bridge with the visitor center’s exhibits, a picnic, or additional hiking, depending on time, trail conditions and mobility needs. DCR identifies the park as a Virginia state park dedicated in 2016; the Natural Bridge is also listed as a National Historic Landmark. [4]
Start here
Begin at the visitor center. DCR describes its Base Camp space as a place to explore exhibits about the park’s natural, historical and cultural heritage. The visitor center is also where visitors can get oriented and ask park staff about access and current conditions. [5]
If you arrive before the visitor center opens, DCR advises following Cedar Creek Trail signs to the Trail Store for admission. Its hours and seasonal services may change, so confirm details before traveling. [6]
What to see and do
Walk beneath the Natural Bridge
Follow Cedar Creek Trail from the visitor center to the bridge and experience the limestone arch from the gorge below. The approach includes a stairway of 137 steps; contact the park in advance to ask about accommodations.
Continue to Lace Falls
The creekside trail continues beyond the bridge to Lace Falls, a cascade DCR describes as 50 feet tall. Check trail conditions and allow time for the return walk.
Explore more trails
The park’s trail network includes Cedar Creek, Blue Ridge, Buck Hill and Skyline trails, as well as Thistle Ridge trails. Consult the official trail guide for route details and current conditions.
Visit Base Camp
See exhibits about the area’s natural and cultural heritage at the visitor center. DCR notes that the displays include information about wildlife and the formation of the bridge.
Take a picnic break
Picnic tables are available behind the visitor center, and the park lists additional picnic areas. Confirm facility availability when planning your visit.
Look for ranger programs
Nature and cultural programs are among the park’s offerings. Check the official park calendar for current program dates and details.
History and significance
Natural Bridge has been a destination since the 18th century. Thomas Jefferson, one of its early American owners, helped establish its place in the history of Virginia travel. The natural arch and surrounding landscape are recognized together as a National Historic Landmark. [7][8]
Virginia dedicated Natural Bridge as a state park on September 24, 2016. The Commonwealth’s ownership of the landmark and surrounding property was completed in June 2023, securing the site’s place in the state park system. [9][10]
Planning a visit
The park is at 6477 South Lee Highway, Natural Bridge, Virginia. DCR directs drivers from Interstate 81 to U.S. 11 and park signs. The park’s listed telephone number is 540-291-1326. [11]
Allow for stairs, uneven outdoor surfaces and the physical effort of walking the trail. DCR says access to Cedar Creek Trail and the bridge involves 137 steps, and recommends appropriate footwear and hydration. Visitors with accessibility questions should contact the visitor center before arriving to discuss possible accommodations. [12]
Hours, admission, seasonal services, closures and trail conditions can change. Confirm current information on the official park page before you go. The park has picnic facilities and a campground; check DCR’s current listings for availability and reservations. [13]
Nearby attractions
Roanoke, Virginia
A nearby city option for restaurants, shopping and cultural attractions.
Blue Ridge Mountains
The surrounding mountain region offers scenic landscapes and outdoor destinations.
Virginia State Parks
Explore more parks and outdoor places managed across the Commonwealth.
Virginia Scenic Drives
Ideas for exploring Virginia’s landscapes by road.
References
- ↑ Natural Bridge State Park, Virginia State Parks, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. Retrieved October 1, 2026.
- ↑ Natural Bridge State Park, Virginia State Parks, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. Retrieved October 1, 2026.
- ↑ Virginia's Natural Bridge now under state ownership, Virginia State Parks, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, June 30, 2023. Retrieved October 1, 2026.
- ↑ Natural Bridge State Park, Virginia State Parks, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. Retrieved October 1, 2026.
- ↑ Natural Bridge State Park, Virginia State Parks, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. Retrieved October 1, 2026.
- ↑ Natural Bridge State Park, Virginia State Parks, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. Retrieved October 1, 2026.
- ↑ Natural Bridge State Park Master Plan Executive Summary, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, Commonwealth of Virginia, December 2021. Retrieved October 1, 2026.
- ↑ Natural Bridge State Park, Virginia State Parks, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. Retrieved October 1, 2026.
- ↑ Natural Bridge State Park, Virginia State Parks, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. Retrieved October 1, 2026.
- ↑ Virginia's Natural Bridge now under state ownership, Virginia State Parks, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, June 30, 2023. Retrieved October 1, 2026.
- ↑ Natural Bridge State Park, Virginia State Parks, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. Retrieved October 1, 2026.
- ↑ Natural Bridge State Park, Virginia State Parks, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. Retrieved October 1, 2026.
- ↑ Natural Bridge State Park, Virginia State Parks, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. Retrieved October 1, 2026.