Photographer Mike Kropf of Eastbrook Photography shares one couple's experience saying "I Do" under the grand arch of Natural Bridge, one of Virginia's most iconic and historic landmarks.

Mike Kropf shares a picture-perfect finish for their wedding vows at Natural Bridge State Park.

"They say a little rain on your wedding day is good luck, but who needs luck when you’re surrounded by all of your favorite people in an amazing location? Kelsey and Clark’s day was full of beautiful moments.

From their first look on the balcony of the Natural Bridge Historic Hotel, to a laughter filled ceremony underneath the 215-foot-high natural arch, every moment was steeped in emotion. Once night fell the dance floor was the place to be.

Yes, you can get married under the Natural Bridge

Image source: Mike Kropf of Eastbrook Photography

The natural setting at the bridge is undeniably one of the loveliest in Virginia

Image Source: Mike Kropf of Eastbrook Photography

Kelsey and Clark couldn’t stop smiling at each other throughout their first dance and were later joined by all of their closest friends and family who brought the excitement to the next level.

At the end of the night the newlyweds snuck a few kisses out in the rain to put a picture-perfect finish on a beautiful day." 

THE ANSWER IS YES!

Most couples may not realize they too can "tie the knot" under this historic and iconic bridge.

Call the park directly to inquire about hosting your big day in this incredible historic and natural setting at (540) 291-1326. The happy couple utilized the adjacent Natural Bridge Historic Hotel and Conference Center for the Bridal Suite, and also celebrated with a wonderful catered reception with family and friends after saying their vows.

ABOUT

Once owned by Thomas Jefferson and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the 215-foot tall Natural Bridge is a limestone gorge carved out by Cedar Creek. This Virginia State Park is more than just the bridge. Beautiful forests, open, rolling meadows showcase the area’s karst terrain, and vistas of surrounding mountains and the James River valley display nature’s splendor. Access these via 6 miles of hiking trails, including the accessible Cedar Creek Trail that leads from the bridge to the Monacan Indian Village and Lace Falls with its 30-foot cascade. All of these make for spectacular photo shoots.

LOCATION

Natural Bridge State Park is less than 15 miles from Lexington Virginia, and 30 from Roanoke.

Drive Time: Northern Virginia, three and a half hours; Richmond, two hours; Tidewater/Norfolk/Virginia Beach, four hours. Click here for a Google map.

FACILITIES

The bridge area itself has rows of benches nearby for your special guests.

Cedar Creek Café has a sheltered area for picnicking, and the Cascade picnic area seats up to 24 and can accommodate a tent. The Leave No Trace outdoor classroom, which can also handle a tent, has five picnic tables and a fire pit. Contact the park for rental info and to get the logistics for use.

When you call the park they can provide more detailed information, and a contact at the hotel for catering and use there. As it's not part of the park, we don't have that information here.

PETS

Since pets are allowed at all Virginia State Parks (if maintained on a leash of 6' or shorter) your dog is welcome to be there as well for your big day, and even be a part of the wedding party if you choose.

See more from this picture-perfect wedding at Natural Bridge State Park below:

All photos courtesy of Mike Kropf | Eastbrook Photography 

See more beautiful photos here.

Call the park to start planning your big day now at (540) 291-1326.

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Editor's note: In this series we share various wedding and engagement venues at Virginia State Parks from amazing photographers. Click the links throughout the article to learn more about the venue, we would love to help make your dreams come true. Here is our Pinterest board for park weddings. Previously in this series:

1. Stunning Wedding Venue along the Shores of the Rappahannock River
2. An Authentic Mountain Wedding Venue
3. Photo Opportunities Abound at this Virginia Beach Wedding Venue
4. Happily Ever After is Proclaimed at this Wedding Spot
5. A Fall Fairy Tale Wedding
6. A Story Book Wedding in the Formal Gardens
7. A Whimsical Woodsy Wedding
8. Falling in Love is Forever at this Wedding Venue
9. Love Shines in this Special Place
10. Celebrating Love: Engagement Photo Shoot at Sky Meadows State Park
11. A Waterfront Wedding in Central Virginia Makes Our Hearts Swoon
12. Tie The Knot Where Eagles Soar
13. Shout it from the Highest Mountain: We're Engaged!
14. Love has its Perfect Way at this Pocahontas State Park Wedding Venue

Reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance for venues are also available weekdays (some with discounts in place). Just call the Reservation Center to help pick the perfect park and venue for your magical day, 800-933-7275.