Natural Bridge, Virginia

    Famed Natural Bridge is located in Rockbridge County, Virginia. It is a geological formation with a tributary of the James river running through it known as Cedar Creek. The creek has carved out a gorge in the mountainous limestone terrain, forming an arch 212 ft high with a span of some 92 ft. The arch consists of horizontal limestone strata, and is the remains of the roof of a cave or tunnel through which the creek flowed for endless eons. Much to my surprise it is crossed by a public road, U.S. Highway 11. I have crossed this bridge at least twice on trips and didn't even know it. This seems to be a little known fact, but the guide at theNatural Bridge park did mention it in her talk. (presentation) There are fences on either side of the highway, blocking the view from the top of the bridge. Natural Bridge has been designated a Virginia Historical Landmark and a National Historical Landmark. See more pictures in our GALLERY.