

Travel Photography by James Q. Jacobs

Natural Bridges National Monument, Utah.

Natural Bridges National Monument protects three massive sandstone bridges on Cedar Mesa, a plateau 6,500 feet above sea level in southeastrn Utah. Stream action over ont spans of time have cut two deep canyons into the rock formed from dunes near the shore of an ancient sea. Trails descend into the canyons near each bridge from the Monument loop drive. The scenic, nine-mile road is open all year. Each bridge can also be viewed from accessible overlooks. Several archeological sites are also visible along the scenic drive and from canyon overlooks.



Sipapu Bridge is the second largest natural bridge in the world,

second only to Rainbow Bridge in the Glen Canyon and Lake Powell area.

Sipapu Bridge from its west side looking northward up White Canyon.





Katchina Bridge viewed from just below the observation point. The following

view shows the same trees seen above in front of the span.





The ancient meander encircling the abuttment cut a new path though the rock long ago.

Nonetheless, given the massive arch, Kachina must be conidered a young bridge.



Katchina Bridge's considerable overhang space served as ancient shelter.

Constructs and rock art, from very ancient to recent, decorate the alcoves.





Owachomo Bridge, the oldest of the three massive spans, is now far above

the stream which first cut through the sandstone wall. Here I heard one of

the visitors tell her children, "If you are a rock, you have lots of time."



The visitor center, open daily except major holidays, greets the visitor

with introductory exhibits, a video presentation, a bookstore, and rest rooms.

The visitor center, open daily except major holidays, greets the traveler with

introductory exhibits, an interpretive video presentation, a bookstore, and restrooms.

Click images for larger files.



A trail interpretation sign displays the placement of the park in the regional geological sequence.

Natural Bridges National Monument is located between Blanding and Lake Powell.