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Media inquiries: Please contact Dave Neudeck, dave.neudeck@dcr.virginia.gov, 804-786-5053.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: April 17, 2025
Contact: Starr Anderson, Public Relations and Marketing Specialist, 540-460-1540, starr.anderson@dcr.virginia.gov

Illumination of the Bridge returns to Natural Bridge State Park

(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Illumination of the Bridge)

NATURAL BRIDGE, Va. – Natural Bridge State Park invites visitors to see the iconic Natural Bridge in a new light. This spring and fall, the park will host Illumination of the Bridge, a tribute to the first light program at the bridge conducted in 1927.

On select nights, the historic 200-foot-tall limestone arch will be lit from above and below by dozens of lights, highlighting the bridge’s geological features and creating an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

Event details:

Dates: April 26, May 31, June 28, July 26, Aug. 30, Sept. 27, Oct. 25
Time: April-September: 8-10 p.m., October: 7-9 p.m.
Admission: Ages 3‐12: $6, age 13 and up: $9

During Illumination of the Bridge, the visitor center will be open until 9 p.m., and Cedar Creek Trail will be open until 10 p.m. Light snacks will be available for purchase. The trail beyond the Natural Bridge will be closed.

Getting to the bridge requires navigating a stairway with 137 steps. Accommodations for those with accessibility needs can be made upon request at the visitor center or by calling 540-291-1326.

For more information about Illumination of the Bridge and other upcoming events, visit www.virginiastateparks.gov/events.

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Virginia State Parks are managed by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. For more information about Virginia State Parks’ activities and amenities or to reserve one of the more than 1,800 campsites or 300 climate-controlled cabins, call the Virginia State Parks Reservation Center at 800-933-PARK or visit www.virginiastateparks.gov.

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