Often considered to be among the world’s greatest natural wonders, Virginia’s Natural Bridge is a remarkable limestone arch carved by Cedar Creek over thousands of years. The arch was formed when an ancient cavern collapsed, leaving only the bridge intact. As the largest natural land bridge on the North American continent, it stands 215 feet in length.
This natural wonder held great significance for the Monocan tribe and was highly respected by American colonists. The site was surveyed by George Washington in 1750, and legend has it that he even carved his initials into the rock. Thomas Jefferson, who purchased the 157 acres of land including the bridge from King George III in 1774, referred to the Natural Bridge as “the most sublime of nature’s works”. The renowned American poet William Cullen Bryant also extolled its beauty, placing it alongside Niagara Falls as one of the most notable features of North America. The Natural Bridge is also referenced in Herman Melville’s classic novel, Moby Dick.
One of the more unique aspects of the Natural Bridge is the “Drama of Creation,” a biblical-themed light show that has been projected onto the bridge every night since 1920, making it the longest continuously running light show in the US.
The Natural Bridge Caverns, the deepest caves on the East Coast are located less than half a mile away from the Natural Bridge. Other nearby attractions include a wax museum and a Monocan Indian village exhibit. On September 24, 2016, the Natural Bridge became a part of the Virginia State Park system.
Address:
15 Appledore Lane
Natural Bridge, Virginia, 24578
United States
Photos by Wilsilver77/depositphotos.com, Wilsilver77/depositphotos.com
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