Exploring Natural Bridge

Natural Bridge in Rockbridge County, Virginia is one of the oldest tourist spots in the US. It has been named as a National Historic Landmark and a Virginia Historic Landmark and is considered as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. It is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

The Natural Bridge (pictured) is a geological formation in the shape of an arched bridge. It is 215-feet high and 90-feet wide. George Washington as a young man surveyed the site for Lord Fairfax and carved his initials on the wall of the bridge.

In 1754, Thomas Jefferson bought a 157-acres of land including the Natural Bridge from King George lll of England for 20 shillings. He built a two-room log cabin—one room was reserved for guest as a retreat. The Natural Bridge has remained privately owned.

As legend goes, the Monacan Indians found the arch while fleeing from the Powhatans and Shawnees in the 16th Century when they thought they’ve reach dead end. They crossed the bridge to go to a safer place.

The Natural Bridge is transformed at night with a sound and light show. The “Drama of Creation,” describes the seven days of creation with the musical accompaniment of some of the greatest compositions and vocal music’s together with the awesome light effects by the celebrated lighting engineer, Phineas Stephens. The bridge is spectacular in the daytime and evenings. The green trees and the Cedar Creek at the bottom of the gorge makes this different from other rock formations found in other cities and countries all over the world.

Another attraction in Natural Bridge is the Cedar Creek Nature Trail, where you can trail from cascade creek to lace falls, a beautiful waterfall descending down the Natural Bridge at fifty-foot drop. You’ll pass through some other natural exhibits including the 1500-year-old Ancient Arbor Vitae Tree, the Lost River, Saltpeter Cave, plants and flowers and some wildlife. It is a flat trail and easy to walk, about a mile from start to end.

Also visit the Monacan Indian Village, a re-creation of the Monacan Village and learn their way of life some 300 years ago and help assist on canoe building, fishing and other daily tasks. Admission price for each attraction is from $6 - $12 per person. It’s very interesting to know that the Monacans controlled the upper waters of the James River at Richmond and the Blue Ridge Mountains in the Shenandoah Valley.

This trip is relaxing as well as educational and fun. Not a lot of people are aware of this beautiful place, so if you’re visiting Virginia, make sure to drop by at the Natural Bridge. For more information call 1.800.533.1410.