Walk to the Sipapu Bridge Viewpoint

With a span of 268 feet, Sipapu Bridge is the largest natural bridge in the park and the second largest in the United States. From the viewpoint, you get sweeping views of the bridge and the canyon it spans. 

Length Roundtrip: 581 feet (177 meters)
Elevation Change One-way (from Parking Lot to Viewpoint): 19 feet (5.89 meters) loss, 0 feet gain

Details

Duration

10 Minutes

10 minutes minimum, depending how long you stay at the viewpoint

Activity

Hiking

Age(s)

All ages, but minors should be with an adult parent or guardian.

Pets Allowed

Yes with Restrictions

Pets must be on a leash (6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times.

Activity Fee

No

Park entry fees are required.

Location

Sipapu Bridge Viewpoint

Directions from Natural Bridges Visitor Center: visitor center parking lot, turn right at the stop sign. Follow the one-way driving loop approximately 2 miles (3 kilometers) until you see the sign and parking area for the Sipapu Bridge Viewpoint.

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

All seasons – Suggested visiting time is spring and fall. Summer temperatures often reach 100°F (38°C), and the trail provides no shade. Winter snow and ice may make the viewpoint inaccessible. If snow and/or ice are present, snow cleats, crampons, and/or poles are recommended.

Time of Day

Any Time

All times of day – Although Sipapu Bridge is not visible from the viewpoint after sunset, you can stargaze after dark.

Accessibility Information

Service animals are allowed on this trail.

There is one accessible parking space at the trailhead. The Sipapu Bridge Viewpoint trail is paved sidewalk. Total trail length (roundtrip) is 581 feet or about 194 yards (177 meters). The trail declines 19 feet (6 meters) to the overlook.

Audio recordings of the posted signage are not available. There is a bench at the overlook. There is no shade.

The nearest restrooms are flush toilets located outside the visitor center and a pit toilet located at the Kachina Bridge parking area. Restrooms and water are available at the visitor center.

This paved path declines from the parking area to the viewpoint.

NPS Photo by Miranda Kay

Getting There

Start at the Sipapu Bridge Viewpoint parking area. Follow the paved trail 290 feet (88.6 meters) to the overlook.

Special Features

The Sipapu Bridge Viewpoint Trail is a great place for geology, with desert varnish streaking down the canyon walls and potholes on the canyon rim. Below, you can see where an ancient river once flowed through the canyon and carved out the bridge.

Looking for More?

If you want to get closer, consider taking the trail down to Sipapu Bridge.

Learn More

• 

  Sipapu Bridge

  Read more about Sipapu Bridge.

• 

  Other Places to Go

  Learn about the major features at Natural Bridges National Monument.

• 

  Natural Bridges National Monument

  Everything you need to know about the monument.