Natural Bridge Yellowstone: Rhyolite Arch by Bridge Bay

Q: Is the hike worth the 2.5 miles round trip?

Yes. You gain two viewpoints of a rare natural arch and observe Bridge Creek carving through rhyolite, a clear example of long-term erosion and landscape evolution.

Q: Can I walk on or cross the arch?

No. Signs prohibit crossing or climbing the arch to protect the rock and for safety.

Q: Is bear spray necessary on this trail?

Yes. Early summer activity around Bridge Creek increases bear presence; carry spray and follow park bear-safety guidelines.

Q: Is the top viewpoint accessible with kids?

The main trail is easy, but the switchback to the top is steep and not recommended for very young children.

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Overview

About This Attraction

Two-span rhyolite arch spans Bridge Creek, standing about 51 feet tall and 29-30 feet wide. From below, the rock textures and the moving creek reveal millions of years of erosion and freeze-thaw work on rhyolite. This is Yellowstone's only significant natural arch, a clear record of water's eroding power.

Best Time to Visit

Summer and Fall; mornings best for photography; early summer closures due to grizzly bears. Inquire at the Fishing Bridge Visitor Center for opening dates and closures.

Visitor Tips

Observe the rhyolite textures along the arch; the rock surface reveals oxidation and slow weathering.
Listen to Bridge Creek; erosion continues as the water flows.
Bear spray is recommended; early summer activity can close the trail—noise helps safety.
The top switchback is steep; wear sturdy footwear and keep young children close.
Signs prohibit walking on or crossing the bridge—stay on designated paths for preservation and safety.

Details

Location & Features

GPS: 44.5336185, -110.4385682

Nearby

Nearby Attractions:

Bridge Creek, Bridge Bay Marina, Gull Point, Yellowstone Lake

Insider Tips

Park in the larger Bridge Bay Marina lot for easier access to the trailhead
The top switchback is steep; wear solid hiking shoes
Bear spray is recommended; make noise to avoid surprising bears
Check with Fishing Bridge Visitor Center for current closures
Photograph in the morning; the arch and Bridge Creek respond to light

Visitor Information

Accessibility:

Main trail easy, partly paved; top overlook requires steep effort; not fully accessible

Family Friendly:

The main trail is fairly easy for most hikers, but reaching the bridge requires a short, steep switchback. The round-trip distance is about 2.5 miles (4 km), with some routes closer to 3 miles depending on where you start from the trailhead. This climb can be challenging for very young children, so plan accordingly. Bears are active in the area, especially in early summer when trout spawn in Bridge Creek; hike in groups of three or more, make noise, and carry bear spray.

Nearby Facilities:

Bridge Bay Marina, Gull Point, Lake Village

Reviews

★★★★☆

4.8 /5

Based on 58 Google reviews

Reviews from Google

The Natural Bridge in Yellowstone is a beautiful spot and well worth the short hike. The trail is easy and mostly flat, winding through peaceful forest before opening up to an impressive stone arch carved by water over time. The formation stands tall and feels like a hidden gem tucked away from the busier areas of the park.

If you are staying at the Bridge Bay Camp Ground don't miss this short easy walk to the Natural Bridge (3 miles round trip). You may stumble upon a bear, elk, or mule deer along this trail so be wildlife aware. But don't let this stop you from exploring this beautiful area.

Cool spot! As far as I know, the only natural bridge in Yellowstone. The trail towards it is mostly paved, easy flat walk towards the n.b. (around 2 km). After that, it is a short climb to the n.b. itself.

Showing 3 of 58 reviews

FAQs

Do I really need to arrive before 7am to get parking?

Parking around Bridge Bay Marina can fill on busy days; the marina lot is the best option for hikers, and arrive early to secure a spot.

Is the hike worth the 2.5 miles round trip?

Can I walk on or cross the arch?

Is bear spray necessary on this trail?

Is the top viewpoint accessible with kids?

📖 nps.gov 📖 yellowstonepoi.com 📖 10adventures.com 📖 thelonghornranch.com 📖 yellowstoneinsider.com 📖 usgs.gov 📖 youtube.com 📖 visitmt.com 📖 yellowstoneexplored.com 📖 utahsadventurefamily.com 📖 yellowstonetrips.com 📖 annestravels.net 📖 world-of-waterfalls.com 📖 freeroaminghiker.com 📖 yellowstonenationalparklodges.com 📖 wikipedia.org 📖 ajsonline.org 📖 uky.edu 📖 livescience.com ⭐ Google Reviews 🏞️ National Park Service 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

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