Quick Facts:
Location: Natural Bridges National Monument, Blanding, Utah
Coordinates: 37.61346381230023, -110.00870375491108
Length: 8 Miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 1,000’
Dog Friendly: No
Introduction:
If you’re looking for a hike that combines jaw-dropping natural beauty with a sense of adventure, the Under the Natural Bridges Loop in Natural Bridges National Monument delivers. This challenging yet rewarding trail takes you beneath three massive stone bridges, Sipapu, Kachina, and Owachomo, each one a testament to the power of water and time. Whether you’re here to photograph these iconic formations or just want to experience the grandeur of this desert landscape, this loop trail is a must-see for anyone visiting the Blanding area.
Getting to Under the Natural Bridges:
Natural Bridges National Monument is located about 35 miles west of Blanding, Utah. From Blanding, take UT-95 west for approximately 30 miles. Turn right onto UT-275 and continue for about 4 miles until you reach the visitor center and the main parking area. The drive is paved and well-maintained, making it accessible for all vehicles.
The trailhead for the Under the Natural Bridges Loop is located at the Sipapu Bridge parking area. This is the starting point for the loop and the best place to park. If the lot is full, additional parking is available at the visitor center.
Parking Information:
Parking at Natural Bridges National Monument is plentiful, with designated lots at each of the three bridge trailheads. The main lot at the visitor center has ample space for cars, RVs, and trailers. The entrance fee is $20 per vehicle, but the America the Beautiful pass gets you in for free.
There are restrooms and water fountains at the visitor center, but not along the trail, so fill up your water bottles before hitting the trailhead. The park is open year-round, but the visitor center hours may vary seasonally.
Landscape Description:
The Under the Natural Bridges Loop offers some of the most spectacular scenery in the Southwest. The trail descends from the mesa top into White Canyon, a vast sandstone basin carved by centuries of flowing water. The landscape is a striking contrast of red rock walls, towering cliffs, and lush vegetation growing along the canyon floor.
The first bridge you’ll encounter is Sipapu Bridge, the largest of the three. Standing at 220 feet high and spanning 268 feet, it’s an awe-inspiring natural wonder. The trail takes you directly beneath the bridge, allowing you to fully appreciate its immense size and intricate patterns etched by wind and water.
From Sipapu, the trail continues along the canyon floor, winding through dense vegetation and rocky creek beds. Kachina Bridge, the second bridge, is massive and thick, with a more rounded shape. It’s named after the petroglyphs and pictographs found nearby, remnants of the ancient Ancestral Puebloan culture.
The final leg of the loop takes you to Owachomo Bridge, the thinnest and most delicate of the three. With a span of 180 feet and a height of 106 feet, it’s a stunning sight, especially in the soft light of late afternoon.
Trail Difficulty and Length:
The Under the Natural Bridges Loop is a strenuous, 8 mile hike that requires a good level of fitness and plenty of stamina. The trail involves steep descents, rocky terrain, and several creek crossings. Expect some scrambling and ladder climbs, particularly near Sipapu and Kachina Bridges.
Allow 4 to 6 hours to complete the loop, depending on your pace and how much time you spend exploring each bridge. The trail is well-marked but can be tricky to navigate in sections, especially after heavy rain. Bring a trail map, plenty of water, and snacks for the journey.
Dog-Friendly?
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the Under the Natural Bridges Loop. Natural Bridges National Monument is a protected area, and the delicate desert environment is home to sensitive plants and wildlife. Pets are permitted in the parking areas and along paved roads but must remain leashed at all times. If you’re traveling with a dog, consider exploring nearby BLM lands where pet restrictions are less stringent.
Park Rules and Regulations:
Natural Bridges National Monument is a designated International Dark Sky Park, so visitors are encouraged to minimize light pollution and enjoy the stunning night skies. Camping is only allowed in designated campgrounds, and fires are restricted to established fire rings.
Hikers must stay on designated trails to protect the fragile desert ecosystem and avoid damaging ancient archaeological sites. Climbing on the bridges is strictly prohibited, as it can cause irreversible damage to these natural wonders.
Pack out all trash and practice Leave No Trace principles to help preserve this incredible landscape for future generations.
Other Hikes Nearby:
If you’re looking for more hiking opportunities, head to Muley Point Overlook, located just a few miles west of Goosenecks State Park. The viewpoint offers sweeping views of Monument Valley, the San Juan River, and the Valley of the Gods.
If you’re interested in ancient ruins and petroglyphs, Butler Wash in Bears Ears National Monument is a short drive from Goosenecks and offers several easy hikes to well-preserved cliff dwellings.
If you’re up for an all-day adventure, the Grand Gulch Primitive Area is a vast, rugged canyon system filled with Ancestral Puebloan ruins and rock art. Permits are required for overnight trips, and the terrain is challenging but incredibly rewarding.
Non-Hiking Attractions Nearby:
After your hike, visit the Natural Bridges Visitor Center to learn more about the park’s geology, history, and dark sky program. The center also has interactive exhibits, maps, and ranger-led programs.
For a unique cultural experience, head to the Edge of the Cedars State Park Museum in Blanding, where you can explore a well-preserved kiva and view thousands of ancient artifacts.
If you’re in the mood for some local flavor, stop by Comb Ridge Eat and Drink in Bluff for a post-hike meal. Their menu features fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a laid-back atmosphere perfect for unwinding after a long day on the trail.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to hike the Under the Natural Bridges Loop is in the cooler months of spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). Temperatures are mild, ranging from the 60s to 70s, and the desert landscape is often dotted with wildflowers.
Summer can be extremely hot, with daytime highs exceeding 90°F. If you’re hiking in summer, start early in the morning and bring plenty of water. The canyon floor can feel like an oven by midday, so plan accordingly.
Winter can bring chilly mornings and occasional snow, but the trails are less crowded, and the cool air makes for pleasant hiking conditions.
Sunrise and sunset are magical times to visit, as the soft light illuminates the bridges and casts dramatic shadows across the canyon walls. If you’re a photographer, plan to be at Owachomo Bridge at sunset for some of the best lighting in the park.
Still Want More?
For those who want to capture these breathtaking views and bring a piece of nature home, Unicorn Adventure offers high-quality nature photography prints. Check out their collection and find the perfect image to remind you of your hiking experience!
