The limestone arch is the remnant of the roof of a collapsed cavern.
Thomas Jefferson purchased the bridge and 157 surrounding acres from King George III in 1774 for 20 shillings.
The bridge is wide enough to support U.S. Route 11, which still runs across the top of the formation.
The Monacan Indian Nation used the site as a strategic defensive location during the 1700s.
The limestone formation is officially classified as a natural bridge gorge.
Lace Falls, located at the end of the Cedar Creek Trail, drops approximately 30 feet.
George Washington reportedly surveyed the area and carved his initials into the limestone wall, which are still claimed to be visible.
Natural Bridge State Park features a 215-foot-tall limestone arch carved by Cedar Creek. The bridge is a registered National Historic Landmark and was once owned by Thomas Jefferson. Visitors traverse a half-mile trail leading from the Visitor Center to the base of the span. The geological formation consists of horizontally bedded limestone strata. The site includes the Monacan Indian Living History Exhibit, showcasing historical indigenous structures. The Cedar Creek Trail continues beyond the bridge, leading to the Lost River and the Lace Falls waterfall. The park encompasses over 1,600 acres of protected karst topography. The facility transitioned from private ownership to the Virginia State Park system in 2016.
The viewing platform directly beneath the center of the arch provides the best upward angle.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes as the Cedar Creek Trail is paved but can be slippery near the creek.
Bring water, as there are no food or drink vendors available along the walking trail itself.
Check the official website for scheduled maintenance closures of the boardwalk before traveling.
Do not attempt to climb or scramble on the limestone cliffs surrounding the arch.
Stay on marked trails to protect the fragile karst ecosystem; swimming in the creek is prohibited.
