Exploring Natural Bridges National Monument: Your Ultimate Guide
Natural bridges are a remarkable sight in Utah, and the Natural Bridges National Monument offers some truly stunning examples. These unique formations, distinct from arches, are the main attractions in this remote yet captivating area.
Planning Your Visit
If you’re considering a trip to this extraordinary monument, this guide is here to help you map out the perfect visit.
Discovering Natural Bridges National Monument
Nestled in Southern Utah, this national monument features three prominent natural bridges and a Puebloan cliff dwelling. Established as Utah’s first national monument in 1908, it spans over 7,600 acres, providing ample opportunities for exploration among its creeks, bridges, and historical sites.
The three bridges, known as “Kachina,” “Owachomo,” and “Sipapu,” honor the ancestral Anasazi Puebloan people. Each bridge boasts a unique charm. The park, while remote, is powered by a solar field and offers an excellent escape from the digital world, as there is no cell service.
When to Visit Natural Bridges
Open 24/7 year-round, the park can be challenging to access during winter due to road conditions, and the visitor center has limited hours in that season. The optimal visiting period is from late March to October when the weather is most pleasant. Visitors typically spend 2-3 hours exploring the overlooks and hiking trails. Summers can be hot and arduous for hiking, and during the monsoon season (August to September), be cautious of flash flood risks. Fall is particularly picturesque, with vibrant foliage and cooler temperatures.
Top Attractions at Natural Bridges National Monument
– Sipapu Bridge: The largest and most visited bridge, visible from both the overlook and a hiking trail. It’s a must-see, though the descent to the bridge itself is challenging but rewarding.
– Kachina Bridge: The second largest bridge is harder to spot from the overlook and the most difficult to hike, making it less frequented.
– Owachomo Bridge: The smallest and thinnest bridge, believed to be the oldest, and easiest to hike to.
Historical Sites
– Horse Collar Ruins: These ancient Puebloan ruins, visible from a trail or overlook, offer insight into the area’s rich history. If you miss them on your first loop, you can try again, weather permitting.
Hiking Trails
– Horse Collar Overlook Trail: An easy 0.6-mile round trip to a scenic overlook.
– Sipapu Bridge Hike: A moderate 1.5-mile trail descending into the valley.
– Kachina Bridge Hike: A tougher 1.4-mile hike to the base of the bridge.
– Owachomo Bridge Hike: A moderate 1-mile trail, the simplest of the bridge hikes.
– Full Loop Trail: A strenuous 12-mile trek covering all bridges and ruins. It’s primitive and requires checking conditions at the visitor center beforehand.
Stargazing
Natural Bridges is renowned for its dark skies, earning its designation as an international dark-sky park in 2007. Nighttime here reveals an awe-inspiring celestial display.
Accommodation Options
Due to the park’s remote location, nearby lodging is scarce. The closest option is in Blanding, Utah.
Camping
– Natural Bridges Campground: Features 13 first-come, first-served sites.
Hotels in Blanding
– Bears Ears Inn: Offers clean rooms and free breakfast.
– Blue Sage Inn: Another comfortable option with free breakfast.
RV Parks in Blanding
– Sunset Campground: Accommodates both tents and RVs.
– Blue Mountain RV Park: Provides RV sites, tent sites, and cabins.
Visitor Essentials
– Address: End of UT 275, Lake Powell, UT
– Open Hours: 24/7, though camping is restricted to the designated campground.
– Visitor Center: Open 9-5 in summer, Thursday-Sunday in winter. Facilities include exhibits, bathrooms, water, a shop, and information.
– Fees: Vehicle $20, Motorcycle $15, Foot/Bike $10, Annual Pass $55. Also included in the $80 America the Beautiful Annual Pass.
– Passport Stamp available.
Getting There
The nearest town is Blanding, about 45 minutes away via UT-95N and then UT-275N. If arriving from Monument Valley, be cautious on the partly unpaved UT-261N, which has challenging climbs.
By Air
Closest airports:
– Cortez Municipal Airport (CEZ) – 2 hours away
– Moab Canyonlands Airport (CNY) – Also 2 hours away, with better flight options.
Other airports include:
– Durango (DRO) – 3 hours
– Grand Junction (GJT) – 4 hours
– Salt Lake City (SLC) – 5.5 hours
Tips & FAQs
– Download maps before arriving as there is no cell service.
– Check the weather ahead of your visit to avoid unexpected storms.
– Verify visitor center hours, especially in winter.
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