Thing to Do

Natural Bridge Bike Trail

Yellowstone National Park

A natural bridge formation made of rock in a forest.

NPS / Addy Falgoust

The Natural Bridge bike trail is 2.5 mi (4km) round-trip ride and begins just south of the Bridge Bay marina off the Grand Loop Road. Most of the trail follows an old paved road (mostly disintegrated but fairly level with an elevation gain of 317 feet). The trail meanders through the forest then joins a service road and continues west. There is no biking beyond the service road portion of the trail. ONLY HIKING is allowed from this point to the Natural Bridge. The short but steep switchback loop trail to the top of the bridge starts in front of the interpretive exhibit. The natural bridge is a 51 foot (18 m) cliff of rhyolite rock cut through by Bridge Creek. To protect this fragile resource, the top of the bridge is closed to off-trail hiking. Exercise caution along the creek bed for wet and slippery rocks. Mountain bikes are recommended.

Alerts: Be alert for bears: both black and grizzly bears forage in this area. The trail is generally closed until early summer while bears feed on spawning trout in Bridge Creek. Federal regulations require you to stay at least 100 yards (91 m) away from bears and wolves, and at least 25 yards (23 m) away from bison and all other wild animals. Wear bear spray while riding. Inquire at the Fishing Bridge Visitor Center for opening dates and other closures.

Details
The duration will vary depending on fitness level and length of time spent at Natural Bridge.
Activity
Mountain Biking
Qualified service animals are welcome throughout the park and in all park facilities. However, they must be leashed and under your control at all times. This trail enters Yellowstone's backcountry and a permit is required for a service animal to enter the backcountry due to potential wildlife conflict and safety issues.
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
The trailhead for this bike trail is located just south of the Bridge Bay Marina in Yellowstone National Park.
Reservations
No
Season
Summer, Fall
Time of Day
Day
Accessibility Information

The terrain on this trail is best accessed by a mountain bike and could be accessed by a hand-cycle. It is an old paved road that is starting to disintegrate. The elevation gain/loss is 317 ft (97m). Qualified service dogs are permitted but travel with dogs in Yellowstone is not without risks. Please be aware that having a service animal with you may put you at increased risk for confrontations with wolves, bears, and other wildlife.

Yellowstone National Park

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Last updated: February 15, 2024