The visitor center is open Thursday through Monday from 9 AM to 4 PM during spring to fall. In winter, it’s open Thursday through Sunday from 9 AM to 4 PM, and closed on Mondays, Tuesdays, and certain holidays.
The entrance fee at Natural Bridges National Monument is $20 for private vehicles, $15 for motorcycles, and $10 for individuals on foot or bike. These fees are valid for 7 days. Annual and discounted passes are also available through the America the Beautiful program.
From Blanding, Utah, take US-191 south to UT-95, then west for 35 miles to UT-275, and drive 4.5 miles to the monument, immersing yourself in ancient landscapes and celestial skies.
Parking is available within the monument. Cars, motorcycles, and RVs up to 26 feet can park. No overnight parking in day-use areas; campground sites are available for overnight stays. Parking fees are included in the entrance fee.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:None
In the heart of southeastern Utah, Natural Bridges National Monument stands as a testament to the awe-inspiring power of geological time. This protected landscape, designated as a national monument in 1908, is home to three majestic natural bridges – Kachina, Owachomo, and Sipapu – carved from the white Permian sandstone of the Cedar Mesa Formation. These bridges, named after Hopi deities, span the depths of White Canyon and Armstrong Canyon, part of the Colorado River drainage system.
As you traverse the scenic trails, such as the Sipapu Bridge Trail or the Owachomo Bridge Trail, the landscape unfolds with a rich tapestry of ancient Puebloan history. Evidence of human habitation dating back to 7500 BCE is visible in the form of petroglyphs, dwellings, and stone tools scattered along the trails. The night skies here are nothing short of mesmerizing, offering some of the darkest skies in the country.
Seasonal changes bring forth a palette of colors; from the spring blooms of desert wildflowers to the autumn hues that paint the canyon walls. The Natural Bridges Campground serves as a refuge for those seeking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and historical significance of the area.
Nearby, the towns of Blanding and Mexican Hat offer a glimpse into local artisan culture, with various shops and eateries that showcase the region’s unique heritage. For those seeking a more immersive experience, local outfitters provide guided tours and hiking excursions that delve into the park’s extensive network of trails and archaeological sites.
While Natural Bridges National Monument may not host large-scale events, its serene and untouched environment makes it an ideal destination for those seeking a profound connection with nature and history. As the sun sets over the canyons, casting a golden glow over the natural bridges, it becomes clear that this is a place where time stands still, and the beauty of the earth is on full display.
- Area (mi²)
- 12
- Annual visitors
- 100 000
- Established year
- 1908
Top 3 Facts about Natural Bridges National Monument
The largest natural bridge, Sipapu, is 220 feet high and spans 268 feet, a height that could fit the entire dome of the U.S. Capitol building underneath it.
In this arid yet vibrant landscape, turkey vultures and ravens soar above canyons, while yellow-breasted chats and canyon wrens fill the air with melodious songs. Desert cottontails and bobcats roam the terrain, alongside pygmy rattlesnakes and various lizard species. The flora is just as diverse, with pinyon pines, junipers, and cottonwoods thriving, and wildflowers like Indian paintbrush and asters adding bursts of color. Cryptobiotic soil crusts protect the ground, maintaining the delicate balance of this unique ecosystem.
In this arid landscape, three majestic natural bridges carved from white Permian sandstone of the Cedar Mesa Formation stand tall. Sipapu, the largest, spans 268 feet and soars 220 feet high, its grandeur eclipsing the U.S. Capitol dome. The area’s deep canyons and intense meanders are a testament to the relentless power of water, sculpting a realm of huge pourovers and innumerable holes-in-the-rock. Under the pristine dark skies, the Milky Way illuminates the night, a celestial complement to the earthly marvels below.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Self-guided Tours
- Night Sky & Astronomy
- Scavenger Hunts
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Visit in fall for optimal hiking and dark skies. Allow a few days to explore trails like the 9.8-mile loop. Stop at the visitor center, anticipate rocky terrain, and pack meals. Rest often and enjoy the Milky Way during the Dark Sky Festival.【 planner’s tip 】
Pack Appropriately
Pack 3 liters of water, sun protection, layers for temperature swings, and a first aid kit. Bring a map, GPS, and headlamp for navigation. For longer stays, include a tent, warm clothing, and a portable charger.
Respect Wildlife
Maintain a safe distance from wildlife, at least 25 yards, to avoid altering their behavior. Store food securely and keep roads clear to protect both you and the animals. Respect the natural habitat, especially during sensitive seasons. Leave the area as you found it, or better.
Stay Informed
Stay on designated trails, avoid ledges and water, and check weather conditions. Follow signs, respect wildlife, and carry a map and first aid kit. For emergencies, call 911 or park authorities at 435-692-1234. Stay informed about fire restrictions and park rules.
Seasons
Experience spring’s mild temperatures (50s-70s°F) and wildflower blooms from March to May. Enjoy guided walks, overlook talks, and astronomy events amidst the high desert’s unique beauty. Ideal for hiking and stargazing, with comfortable weather and fewer crowds.
Summer brings scorching temperatures over 100°F, but also biting gnat season in June. Despite the heat, enjoy dark sky astronomy events and hike to stunning natural bridges. Bring plenty of water and protective gear. Ideal for stargazers and adventure seekers.
Visit in fall, from September to October, for mild temperatures (50s-70s°F) and vibrant foliage. Enjoy dark sky events and optimal stargazing conditions, with clearer skies and cooler nights. Ideal for photography and hiking.
Visit from December to February for a serene winter landscape with temperatures ranging from 0-50°F. Snow-dusted canyons and bridges emerge in dramatic winter shadows, though services are reduced and cold conditions prevail. Ideal for those seeking solitude and cosmic skies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Natural Bridges National Monument has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest town for staying and accessing the monument is Blanding, Utah, which is about 45 minutes away via UT-95N and UT-275N. Blanding offers the best options for hotel lodging and food.
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You can bring your dog, but it must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet. Dogs are allowed on paved roads, overlooks, viewpoints, and at the campground, but not on trails or in the visitor center.
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You can camp overnight in your RV, but it must be 26 feet or less in combined length. Larger vehicles cannot navigate the campground loop. Camping is only allowed in the designated campground.
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Explore the scenic 9-mile loop drive to see the unique high desert landscapes, including slickrock and pinyon-juniper forests. Hike various trails such as the Sipapu Bridge, Kachina Bridge, and Owachomo Bridge trails, which offer different levels of difficulty and stunning views. Participate in ranger-led programs, including guided walks, overlook talks, and astronomy talks with telescope viewings, available from spring through fall.