Now that Virginia State Parks has officially taken over one of the Commonwealth's most popular and iconic tourist and natural attractions, it was only fitting that I should find myself there with Nikon in hand.

When I approached this magnificent state park, I had no idea what was instore, I had seen photos of the Natural Bridge on the covers of magazines for years. But what would it be like to stand there in person?

A photographic journey of Natural Bridge State Park, Virginia's 37th State Park

This little footbridge that crosses over Cedar Creek to allow you to peer into the Saltpeter Mine that was used for ammunition. I loved the sturdy rock supports below the bridge that hold it securely in place.

It was fun on this warm October day to explore the boulders and clear flowing water below the mine on the Cedar Creek Trail. I even saw one rock that was covered in crayfish, or crawdads (depends where you are from to what you call them). And an entire family unit from the grandparents, parents to grandkids excited about that discovery.

Virginia State Parks allow you and your family to go outside and not only see nature, but feel it.

What a romantic scene as this couple approached wandering casually together along the leafy strewn path of the Cedar Creek Trail.

I found this trail to be really special, not only did it meander along the swift moving creek, but it was a handicap accessible trail, which means everyone has the opportunity to explore this breathtakingly beautiful park.

I wondered when these rock walls were built, this was not a CCC (Civilian Conservation Corps) built park? I began looking closely at some of the photographs I found in the Visitor Center to try to decipher this. These rock walls retained the hillside, but also ran along the water and made for a perfect place to sit and enjoy Cedar Creek, bird watch or even people watch as I did on this particularly gorgeous fall day.

If I was 7 or 12, or even 14 years old I would probably have found myself walking, hopping and skipping along the rock wall that extended the entire length of the trail, versus the paved walkway. 

The creek-bed took on so many different forms along the Cedar Creek Trail like this unique formation. I caught myself stopping to gaze over the side often.

I took this photo because it reminded me of one of the puzzles my daughter had as a toddler where she had to fit the right piece into the right hole. Maybe they came up with the saying from that toy, or the game was designed from these boulders right here:

You can't put a square peg in a round hole 

It also brought to mind that Ian Wallace saying “Why are you trying so hard to fit in when you were born to stand out?” Everything at this park was unique and one of a kind.

Last, but certainly not least, was the showpiece, the crown jewel of this fascinating Virginia State Park, the bridge. What they said was true, it will be much bigger in person than what you expect from photographs, and it was.

What I didn't get until I was standing right there, was that there are two totally different views of Natural Bridge, there is the approach and then the back side. I won't spoil it for you and tell you which one is pictured above.

Both had rows of benches for you to sit back and let her inspire you. I think I felt a bit of what the bridge must has felt, as I was flooded with emotion like it had been flooded with water long ago (and still is).

The geology was so astonishing, I thought about the cataclysmic occurrence that shaped this limestone and formed it into a tunnel and bridge.

Looking up I saw Route 11 that I had just driven over that afternoon, and now down below I remarkably could hear vehicles and trucks passing overhead on the bridge without any rumbling or rocks tumbling (of course that could also be possible).

The bridge was sturdy enough for me to walk under with its 50 feet thick layers of rock. 

It really is worth seeing, and it really is a wonder. I don't think there is any marketing or much advertising needed to tell people you should go to this amazing place. And I don't use the word amazing lightly, either.

If you do go, realize that the Cedar Creek Trail will lead you to the Monacan Village, the Saltpeter Mine, the Lost River and also to the very worthwhile Lace Falls at the very end as a reward. Give yourself plenty of time to stop along the way and gaze into the water, look for wildlife and play a little.

Like all Virginia State Parks, dogs are welcome if maintained on a leash of no longer than 6 feet and kept under control at all times. There are a couple pet stations set up to assist in keeping Natural Bridge State Park pristine for visitors.

If you want more trails for hiking at this incredible state park, I recommend the Monacan Trail that is a 3.0 mile loop on the hillside starting behind the Natural Bridge Hotel. I will write something about that later, but I would love to go back there when the leaves are gone as the views would definitely knock your socks off.

Your journey to explore starts here at the visitor center

There is ample parking at the Visitor Center and a complimentary shuttle that is included in your entrance fee to the bridge floor. You can hike the 137 steps that follow a creek down and catch it back up, or both ways. Pack a picnic lunch and some bottles of water for the day.

The park is open 8:00 a.m. to dusk daily. Take exit 175 from the South, or Exit 180 if coming from the North on I-81 and go two miles (just follow the signs to the park).

Learn more about Natural Bridge State Park

To start your own journey today and see why falling in love with Natural Bridge State Park is not so hard to do.