Before becoming a popular tourist attraction for 18th and 19th century European settlers, Natural Bridge was a sacred place for the Native American Monacan Tribe. It is alleged that George Washington, as a young surveyor, visited the site in 1750. Today, tour guides suggest that his initials “G.W.” are carved on the wall of the bridge. Look 23 feet up and you just might see them.
Thomas Jefferson purchased 157 acres (including the bridge) from King George lll in 1774 for 20 schillings. He called it “the most sublime of nature’s works.” He built a two-room log cabin and as president, hosted famous guests including James Monroe, Sam Huston and Martin Van Buren.
Natural Bridge State Park offers more than 10 miles of hiking trails with the most popular being the main bridge walk – Cedar Creek Trail. This is a fairly easy out-and-back trail, but be aware of the 137 step flight of stairs down to the trail. From the bottom, it’s a short walk to your first glimpse of the Natural Bridge.
Continue along the path past the Saltpeter Cave until you reach the end at Lace Falls, about one mile beyond the arch.
The Saltpeter Cave is described as small, but historically significant. Because mined saltpeter was a key ingredient of gunpowder in the 19th century, it was especially valuable during the war of 1812. I took a peek in the cave just to say I did. We decided to continue to the trails end to check out the waterfall. Lace Falls wasn’t putting on the best show for us that day. I think perhaps the trees were hiding the upper part of the falls. Still, the walk was pleasant and we were happy we forged ahead to the end of the trail.
Natural Bridge State Park is open daily from 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. weather permitting. Located just off Interstate 81 6477 S. Lee Highway in Natural Bridge, Virginia.
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