About the Natural Bridges
The Natural Bridges of Oregon are a mesmerizing geological wonder located in the southern part of the state. Situated within the remarkable landscape of the Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve, these natural bridges are a testament to the power and beauty of nature.
Carved over millions of years by the relentless forces of water and erosion, the Natural Bridges are a series of stunning arches formed in the ancient limestone rocks. They serve as a captivating display of the Earth’s ever-changing landscape.
The Natural Bridges offer a surreal sight, particularly during the daylight hours when the sun’s rays illuminate the formations, casting enchanting shadows and highlighting the intricate details of the stone. The arches possess a diverse array of textures, colors, and patterns, creating a picturesque tableau that photographers and nature enthusiasts find irresistible.
Where Are the Natural Bridges?
The Natural Bridges are located in Curry County along the coastline in the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor. The closest town is Brookings, Oregon.
The Natural Bridges Trail
The Natural Bridges trail is very short, especially if you just going to the viewpoint. It’s about .5 miles to do the whole there-and-back trail, and there’s virtually no elevation.
The viewpoint itself is about 50 feet from the parking area if you don’t want to hike this one but still want the view.
The parking spaces and the trailhead are immediately off the 101 highway and are marked on the map below as well as Google maps, just search. “natural bridges”.
Can You Walk on the Natural Bridges in Oregon?
The short answer is yes. But it is by no means safe, and I wouldn’t recommend it unless you are a strong, fit hiker with appropriate hiking gear, including good hiking boots. You may have seen photos like the ones below due to the unbelievable picture-eske landscape but be cautious. People have died doing this.
That said, I will detail two options for how you can get down to the bridges but be warned, they both are a bit risky, especially if weather conditions have been wet because it is not a marked trail and the elevation down is steep. There’s also some poison oak you need to keep an eye out for.
Option 1: One way to reach the natural bridge is to proceed a short distance beyond the viewing platform and follow an overgrown trail to the right.
However, I personally found this route somewhat precarious, especially when it came to climbing over a section of the trail before the arch. The level of risk involved was too high for my comfort.
Option 2: The second path is to take a trail that starts at the far right side of the parking lot, before the viewing platform, and winds through the forest. This way will lead you to the right side of the arch bridge as well.
Please note that the descent can be challenging, as it is steep and muddy at times. However, in terms of walking onto the arch bridge itself, this route felt safer to me.
The path down is quite pretty just before the bridge, but it’s narrow, and you’ll likely want to use the trees for support as you get closer to the bridge itself.
Other Hikes Near the Natural Bridges
Again, either option is dangerous and I’d recommend just viewing it from the viewpoint instead of going down to the bridges themselves. If you want some one-of-a-kind coast views I’d hit this viewpoint and then hike the Secret Beach Trail that’s 2 minutes north on the 101 highway.
You can make the trek out to the beach in less than a mile and it has a very peaceful serene setting. A creek pours out into a coastal waterfall with a panoramic view of several ocean stacks as well as blue water ocean. It is by far safer with a great payoff when you get to the beach.
More Hikes in the Area
Ultimate Guide to the Samuel H Boardman State Scenic Corridor
Located along the stunning Oregon Coast, the Samuel H Boardman State Scenic Corridor beckons adventurers and nature enthusiasts to embark on a breathtaking journey through a landscape straight out of a postcard. This enchanting stretch of coastline is a testament to nature’s artistic prowess, boasting dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, towering rock formations, and pristine beaches…
Yes, you can walk on the natural bridges if you have the courage but be prepared for a steep and risky path. Search and Rescue are called out to the area each year, and there have been fatalities.
Brookings, Oregon is the closest town to the Natural Bridges in Southern Oregon.
The Natural Bridges viewpoint is very accessible and is just 50 ft from the parking area located off highway 101.
There are two paths to the right side of the natural bridges—the first starts at the right side of the parking area and the second by the viewing platform.
Yes, fortunately, drones are allowed at the Natural Bridges, so don’t feel as though you need to hike down the dangerous makeshift path to get a great shot.