Natural Bridges National Monument

435-692-1234 x616 • nps.gov/nabr

A visit to this monument should be on your list. Located just 42 miles from Blanding on Utah Hwy 95, or take Utah Hwy 261 up the Moki Dugway (see page 140), then 32 miles to Utah Hwy 95. Turn left and follow the signs.

The amazing force of water has cut three spectacular natural bridges in White Canyon at Natural Bridges National Monument, located 42 miles west of Blanding. The three natural bridges named Kachina, Owachomo, and Sipapu in honor of the Native Americans that made this area their home, were formed when meandering streams cut through the canyon walls.

There is a 9.8-mile loop road through the monument with scenic overlooks. For the best experience, take the short hikes down to each bridge. The 1.5-mile hike (round trip) to the first bridge is a really cool experience as the trail drops down 500ft to the base of the bridge named Sipapu. (In Hopi mythology, a sipapu is a gateway through which souls may pass to the spirit world.) This is the second largest natural bridge in the world and well worth the hike.There are sturdy metal stairs, wooden ladders (similar to what Ancestral Puebloans used), and a trail that winds its way down to the bridge. This really interesting trail makes getting to the first bridge a fun adventure.

The hike to Kachina Bridge is also 1.5 miles round trip. This bridge has petroglyphs at the base and is the widest in the park. It’s hard to see this bridge from the overlook so the short hike is the best way to see it.

The trail to the third bridge, Owachomo, is only a half-mile long and on sturdy rock. The view under the bridge is stunning.

Trails connect each bridge making loops to two or all three bridges an option. The full loop is 9.8 miles, so go prepared.

The International Dark-Sky Association designated Natural Bridges as the world’s first International Dark-Sky Park. Make sure to take a ranger-led Dark-Sky Astronomy Program, offered twice weekly spring through fall.

There is a small campground that is first-come, first-served. Drinking water is available at the visitor center. NPS.gov/Nabr. 

Camping

There is a first-come, first-served, 13-site campground near the visitor center. It has no running water, but you can get some at the visitor center.