Natural Bridge Yellowstone: Rhyolite Arch by Bridge Bay

Natural Bridge over a forested canyon in Yellowstone National Park, with a hiker standing atop the rock formation.

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.

Access & viewing

GPS Coordinates: 44.5336185, -110.4385682
Accessibility: Main trail easy, partly paved; top overlook requires steep effort; not fully accessible

Conditions & safety

Permits Required: 0

Planning advice

Nearby Attractions: Bridge Creek, Bridge Bay Marina, Gull Point, Yellowstone Lake
Nearby Facilities: Bridge Bay Marina, Gull Point, Lake Village
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.
Tips Advice: 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.
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

More details

Park Area: Yellowstone National Park
Family Friendly Notes: 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.
Attraction Type: Geological Formation
Elevation Feet: 7983
Distance From Entrance: 2.5 miles round trip (4 km) from Bridge Bay Marina
Accessibility Level: Main trail easy, partially paved; switchback to the top is steep
How To Get There: Park at Bridge Bay Marina; follow the easy main trail along Bridge Creek for about 2.5 miles round trip; bikes are permitted; the top viewpoint is accessed via a steep switchback.
Parking Availability: Bridge Bay Marina parking lot is the primary lot; a smaller bike-trail lot lies just south of the marina off Grand Loop Road; the marina lot is larger and preferred by hikers
Road Type: Grand Loop Road, paved access to Bridge Bay Marina
Seasonal Access: Summer and Fall; early summer closures due to grizzly activity; check Fishing Bridge Visitor Center for dates
Entry Fees: Varies
Main Features: Natural Arch/Bridge; two-span rhyolite arch; erosion by Bridge Creek with freeze-thaw work
What Youll See: A rhyolite arch spanning Bridge Creek, viewed from below and from the top via a steep switchback; the creek runs beneath and the rock surface shows millennia of erosion
Unique Characteristics: Only significant natural arch in Yellowstone; two distinct arches observed by some visitors; arch formation is a record of long-term erosion in rhyolite
Safety Considerations: Gravity and exposure on steep switchbacks; wet rocks along the creek bed are slippery; grizzly bears frequent the area in early summer—carry bear spray and make noise; signs prohibit crossing or walking on the arch
Best Viewpoints: From the creek-side viewpoint below the arch and from the upper overlook via the switchback
Photo Opportunities: Morning light on the rhyolite textures; reflections in Bridge Creek; two vantage points for dramatic compositions
Photography Spots: Creek-side under-arch view; top overlook; morning sun angles for rock textures
Stargazing Quality: Excellent; high elevation and dark skies
Sunrise Sunset Quality: Good during golden hour; mornings favored for photography
Visitor Center Present: 0
Restrooms Available: 1
Picnic Areas: 0
Interpretive Signs: 1
Cell Service: Limited
Water Available: 1
Guided Tours Available: 0
Trailheads Here: Bridge Bay Marina trailhead; access via the main marina area
Connecting Trails: Bridge Bay Marina trail to Natural Bridge; bike path south of marina; connections to Grand Loop Road
Nearby Services: Bridge Bay Marina boat tours and rentals; Lake Village lodging and dining
Common Wildlife: Grizzly bears, trout in Bridge Creek, marmots, chipmunks, squirrels
Best Wildlife Times: Early summer for bear activity near spawning trout; general wildlife activity peaks in summer
Geological Formation Type: Natural Arch/Bridge; double-span rhyolite arch
Scientific Interest: Rhyolite arch formation through erosion and freeze-thaw cycles; Yellowstone’s solitary significant natural arch
Winter Access: Roads may be limited; access primarily via snow routes and seasonal closures
Best Visit Times: Early morning for soft shadows and clearer wildlife viewing; avoid midday sun and windy afternoons on exposed sections
Best Season: Summer and Fall
Weather Patterns: Exposed upper sections can be windy; weather can shift quickly near Yellowstone Lake
Peak Fill Times: Marina parking fills by morning in peak season; the bike-trail lot is smaller but usable
Busiest Season: Summer
Fishing Species: Trout
Fishing Nearby: 1
Swimming Allowed: 0
Boating Allowed: 1
Climbing Areas: 0
Review Summary: Rated 4.8 stars from 58 reviews; visitors praise the rarity and setting of the arch, while noting bear activity and steep access can shape the experience. The hike delivers two viewpoints and a close look at rhyolite erosion, making the trip worthwhile for geology buffs and casual observers alike.

Location

Photos

Natural Bridge formation at Yellowstone National Park seen among rugged rocks and pine forest.

Natural Bridge viewpoint in Yellowstone National Park overlooks a pine forest valley from a rocky ledge.

Natural Bridge overlook along a rocky trail in Yellowstone National Park, with stone steps and forested cliffs.

Natural Bridge informational sign in Yellowstone National Park describing the arch and its basalt formation along the landscape.

Frequently asked questions

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?

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.

Can I walk on or cross the arch?

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

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.

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.