Natural Bridges National Monument

Natural Bridges National Monument   |  More Than Just Parks
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As you start to descend toward Natural Bridges National Monument, the groundcover becomes more luxuriant and the trees taller. You cannot see the chaotic landscape of Natural Bridges from the highway, tucked away as it is off to the north.

The amazing force of water has cut three spectacular natural bridges in White Canyon at Natural Bridges National Monument, located 42 miles west of Blanding or 47 miles north of Mexican Hat. These stunning rock bridges have Hopi Indian names: delicate Owachomo means ‘rock mounds', massive Kachina means ‘dancer', while Sipapu, the second largest natural bridge in the state, means ‘place of emergence'. A nine-mile scenic drive has overlooks of the bridges, canyons and a touch of history with ancient Puebloan ruins. Moderate to difficult trails, some with metal stairs, lead down to each bridge. A longer trail follows the stream bed beneath all three bridges.

Highlights


Additional Information

Entrance Fee: $20 car, $15 motorcycle, $10 on foot/bike, park open year-round. Sites at the campground are $16 per night and can be reserved at recreation.gov. Beginning in April 2024, Natural Bridges National Monument will accept only mobile or electronic payments for entrance and camping fees.

Visitor center: Open Thursday through Monday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. from June to mid-October; and Thursday through Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. from November to June. There is no cell phone service in Natural Bridges. Leashed pets are allowed in the campground and paved overlooks only.

Some information adapted from "Scenic Driving Utah" (Globe Pequot Press), which includes driving directions and maps for 28 of the best auto tours in the state. See the Bicentennial Byway Scenic Drive for more information on things to see in the area.

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