Travel: Natural Bridges National Monument, Utah

By Ming Lo

Tucked between Glen Canyon to the West, Monument Valley to the South, and Arches to the Northeast, Natural Bridges seems to be a secondary destination for many.  But still, it is a gem of a park.  Unlike it’s massive neighbors, it’s small and easily accessible, comprised mainly of three natural bridges found along a 9 mile loop.    

Here’s the view from the first overlook near the Sipapu Bridge. 

Here, look closely and you will see a hole in the rock in the center.  This is the Sipapu Bridge.

The next overlook is at the Kachina Bridge.

You can see the bridge here on the left.

And here’s a wide view showing where the river used to flow, bridge on the right. 

We had a beautiful day that day with gorgeous blue sky.  This is the view at the third bridge, Owachomo Bridge. 

Since the bridge was a very short hike from the overlook (little more than half mile), we had to get a closer look. 

Up close, the Owachomo Bridge is huge and stunning. 

As the sun set, the sky filled with dark moody clouds.  Still, it was a captivating site. 

Here on this map you can see how Natural Bridges is nestled between other major parks.  Many pass by and it’s worth the stop if you can.