Natural Bridge Trail (U.S. National Park Service)

Gray stone rock arches over a creek drainage.

The natural bridge is a 51 foot (18 m) cliff of rhyolite rock cut through by Bridge Creek. The hiking trail meanders through the forest for .7 of a mile (1.2 km). It then joins a service road and continues to the right (west) for .4 of a mile (0.6 km) to the Natural Bridge. The short but steep switchback trail to the top of the bridge starts in front of the interpretive exhibit. To protect this fragile resource, the top of the bridge is closed to hiking and biking. Past the natural bridge, the trail crosses a creek then continues along the cliff before rejoining the road. Exercise caution along the creek bed for wet and slippery rocks.

Safety notes: Trail is generally closed in early summer while bears feed on spawning trout in Bridge Creek. Inquire at the Fishing Bridge Visitor Center for opening date and other closures. The bike trail to Natural Bridge begins just south of the marina off the Grand Loop Road.

Trailheads: Bridge Bay Marina parking lot near the campground entrance road.

This is a 2.5-mile (4-kilometer) there-and-back trail that begins and ends at the same trailhead.

Easy hike

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

This trail is located in the central part of the park, with two trailheads located in and around the Bridge Bay Marina.

More on Day Hikes in Yellowstone

Yellowstone Backcountry Situation Report

Current conditions for Yellowstone National Park trails & campsites.
Safety in Yellowstone

Prepare yourself to safely enjoy wildlife, hydrothermal areas, and other features of Yellowstone National Park.
Bear Spray

Read about this highly effective bear deterrent.