Once owned by Thomas Jefferson — who bought it from King George III for 20 shillings in 1774 and called it “the most sublime of Nature’s works” — Natural Bridge is a 215-foot natural limestone arch carved over millions of years by Cedar Creek. It became a Virginia State Park in 2016, and is now a National Historic Landmark. The main Cedar Creek Trail takes you right under the bridge and on to Lace Falls, a 30-foot cascade, and Salt Peter Cave. The park also has a wonderful Children’s Discovery Area — an outdoor nature classroom where kids can build forts, play on log drums, act in a mini amphitheater, and draw on a blackboard — all in a natural woodland setting. Natural Bridge State Park is also designated as an International Dark Sky Park, so ranger-led stargazing programs and lantern tours of the bridge at night are offered seasonally.
🗓 Pair It. Natural Bridge is in the same direction as Hull’s Drive-In in Lexington — consider combining both for a spectacular full day: bridge and trails in the afternoon, drive-in double feature that evening under the stars.