Visiting in the heart of winter
When you think of breathtaking places in the world, you may think of the Seven Wonders of the World. We are all pretty familiar with or have heard of them. If you're a hiker or nature enthusiast, we can all argue that there are many more than just seven. I'm sure that we've all visited places all over the world that we could easily add to this list. This is just one of many, incorporated into my list of the Wonders of the World.
The Natural Bridge
What you see above is a magnificent place snuggled into the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. This picture just doesn't do its justice. On top of this limestone gorge sits a natural bridge that is over 200 ft tall. Once carved out by the hand of God, it is surrounded by dense forest, mountain views, and a rushing creek that flows right through its center. This peaceful place has many scenic views to marvel at and has increased its visitors steadily each year.
*****All pictures were taken in the middle of winter so you can only imagine what this place looks like in the spring and summertime.
Natural Bridge Trail
The main trail of the Natural Bridge starts as a paved path but then turns into a dirt path, which is well-maintained and keeps hikers coming back every year.
Hiking among these trails offers stunning scenery and provides a serene environment that promotes mental well-being and stress relief. The trails cater to various fitness levels, allowing hikers to engage in physical exercise while enjoying the beauty of nature. The diverse flora and fauna create opportunities for learning and appreciation of the local ecosystem. Additionally, the historical significance of the Natural Bridge adds an enriching cultural dimension to the experience, making it a multifaceted outdoor activity that nourishes both body and mind.
If you're a history lover, you'll also enjoy that this place was highly enjoyed by both U.S. presidents George Washington and Thomas Jefferson.
In the mid-18th century, a young George Washington, who would later become the first President of the United States, was a surveyor in the Virginia Colony. During one of his surveying expeditions in 1750, Washington visited the Natural Bridge. Legend has it that he carved his initials, "G.W.," into the rock wall of the bridge. These initials can still be seen today, a testament to his early connection to this magnificent landmark.
The Natural Bridge also caught the attention of Thomas Jefferson, who purchased the land surrounding the bridge from King George III in 1774. Jefferson was so captivated by its beauty that he described it as "the most sublime of nature's works" in his book, "Notes on the State of Virginia".
Even the former president knew the value of preserving this beautiful landscape.
Over the years, the Natural Bridge has been a popular destination for travelers, artists, and writers. It was even considered for the title of the "8th Wonder of the World" in the 19th century. Today, it is a National Historic Landmark and a beloved natural treasure in Virginia.
So, the next time you visit Virginia, make sure to stop by the Natural Bridge and see if you can spot George Washington's initials carved into the rock. It's a piece of history that connects us to the early days of America and the remarkable individuals who shaped its destiny.
Today the Natural Bridge and its surroundings are a part of one of the many National Parks of Virginia. Within the park, there is a small cave known as Salt Peter Cave.
Bridge to Salt Peter Cave
Entrance to Salt Peter Cave
Sitting on over 1,500 acres of land, this park offers quite a view and up to 10 miles of hiking trails.
Here are some of the notable trails at Natural Bridge State Park:
Lace Falls via Cedar Creek Trail: This easy 2-mile trail offers stunning views and is perfect for a leisurely hike. It features frequent seating areas and colorblind-friendly viewfinders.
Blue Ridge Trail: A moderate 4.2-mile trail that provides great views and a steady climb to the highest point. It's a wide, grassy trail that's fairly easy to navigate.
Skyline Trail Loop: This easy 1.4-mile loop is a simple hike with some elevation gain. It's dog-friendly and offers a peaceful experience with fewer crowds.
Buck Hill Trail: An easy 2-mile trail that is an access road, offering incredible views of the mountains to the east. It's best visited outside of summer due to dense vegetation.
Short Hills WMA Access Road: A moderate 7.5-mile trail that is the longest in the area. It provides a more challenging hike with a variety of natural sights.
Each trail offers a unique experience, whether you're looking for a relaxing walk or a more strenuous hike.
When arriving at the park, you enter the State Park Visitor Center where you will pay a small entry fee of $8 per person. If you arrive before 10 am, the center will be closed and you will need to proceed down the steps on the left of the building to the ranger cabin at the trail entrance.
The main Natural Trail is approximately 2.2 miles to the end and back. When you reach the end of the trail you will see a small waterfall. Nothing too exciting but it is a nice walk.
There are also plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy near Natural Bridge, Virginia:
Virginia Safari Park: This drive-through zoo offers a unique experience where you can see and feed animals from the comfort of your car. It's a fun and educational outing for all ages.
Caverns at Natural Bridge: Explore the underground wonders of these caverns, which feature stunning rock formations and guided tours.
Dinosaur Kingdom II: This quirky attraction combines history and imagination with life-sized dinosaur sculptures and interactive exhibits.
Wilderness Canoe: Enjoy a peaceful canoe trip on the James River, taking in the beautiful scenery and wildlife.
Natural Bridge Zoo: Home to a variety of exotic animals, this zoo offers up-close encounters and educational experiences.
Great Valley Farm Brewery: After a day of outdoor activities, relax and enjoy some locally brewed beer at this scenic brewery.
Halcyon Days Cider: Visit this cider farm to taste delicious ciders made from locally grown apples.
Apple Orchard Mountain: For a more challenging hike, head to Apple Orchard Mountain, which offers stunning views and a rewarding climb.
These activities provide a mix of adventure, relaxation, and education, making Natural Bridge a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
For general questions, please visit the Virginia State Parks website where you will find hours, locations, events, and programs.
For the hiking enthusiast, I stumbled across an amazing website called Hiking the Appalachians and Beyond and it is full of valuable information regarding this particular park, along with many others.
Thanks so much for reading and I hope you enjoy a nice hike soon!!!
