Now that the majestic Natural Bridge is a Virginia State Park, we hope your experiences here will be fond memory makers. We're excited that there is new life being breathed into this popular Virginia attraction.

If you had ever visited Natural Bridge in the past, you may have left feeling a bit disgruntled and with a few bones to pick from your experience, like some did here, according to Trip Advisor. 

#1 THE SCENERY

Natural Bridge State Park cannot be beat for the magnificent scenery

A babbling brook at Natural Bridge State Park, Virginia

A mink swimming and fishing in the reflecting pool

Beyond stating the obvious about the impressive 215 foot tall bridge that is the showpiece of this picturesque Virginia State Park, there are more than 6 miles of hiking trails at Natural Bridge State Park. You will enjoy the woodland forests, the open rolling meadows and inspiring views of the mountains that surround you. You may encounter native flora and fauna, like this mink that was seen fishing.

#2 THE ACCESSIBILITY

Accessible trails make this park available for everyone to enjoy

The bridge itself is the park's showpiece and is universally accessible

Not only is Natural Bridge State Park a short jaunt from I-81, but the park is very accessible. The Cedar Creek Trail is universally accessible and goes under the Natural Bridge to the Monacan Village, Lost River and Lace Falls.

There is a wheelchair lift to assist and also a complimentary shuttle.

The shuttle is available for anyone not wishing to traverse the more than 100 steps to reach the bridge floor. So if you have mobility issues, we hope that won't stop you from visiting the newest Virginia State Park. We are here to assist any way we can.

Accessibility

• The Rockbridge Center
• Restrooms at the Gate House
• Accessible shuttle to Natural Bridge which features a wheelchair lift
• Cedar Creek Trail is accessible as far as the Monacan Village

#3 THE COST

The cost will not be prohibitive for visitors like it was in the past 

Spectacular views of the mountains and meadows from Natural Bridge State Park

Perhaps the biggest complaint before it became Natural Bridge State Park was the exorbitant admission charge* to access the bridge and park itself. Now that Virginia State Parks is on the job, the fee to get into the park is only $8 per person aged 13 and up, and $6 children ages 6 to 12. While there are still plenty of expenses involved in taking over this amazing natural wonder, and making it available for visitors to enjoy, the fees will be kept as low as possible. 

There are even family friendly events and fun activities at this park with no additional fees, click here to learn more. We encourage you to pack a picnic and enjoy all that this exquisite park has to offer.

*Please note that Virginia State Parks is not managing the hotel or caverns at this park, those are owned and operated by third parties in Natural Bridge, Va.

MORE USEFUL INFORMATION

When it's open:

     8:00 a.m. - dusk daily

How to find it:

     From I-81, take exit 175 or 180A to U.S. 11 and follow signs to the park, or click here for a Google map.

How far:

     Drive Time from Northern Virginia, three and a half hours; from Richmond, two hours; Tidewater/Norfolk/Virginia Beach, four hours; Danville, two hours: and Roanoke just 30 minutes. 

How big:

     The park is just over 1,540 acres

Click here to read some of the excellent reviews on Trip Advisor since it became a Virginia State Park on September 24, 2016. Learn more about Natural Bridge State Park here to help plan your next visit.