Natural Bridges National Monument, Nature reserve in San Juan County, Utah.
Natural Bridges National Monument contains three natural bridges named Sipapu, Kachina, and Owachomo that span deep sandstone canyons on a forested plateau in southeastern Utah. A 9-mile paved scenic drive connects observation points for each bridge, with moderate hiking trails leading to the base of these formations.
President Theodore Roosevelt established this national monument on April 16, 1908, creating the first national monument designation in Utah. This founding reflected a broader movement to protect unique geological formations throughout the American West.
The three natural bridges carry names from Hopi culture, connecting visitors to the Native American heritage of southeastern Utah. This naming reflects how Indigenous peoples have long understood and related to this landscape.
Morning and late afternoon visits offer the best lighting for viewing and photographing the bridges. Trails are well-maintained and marked, though sturdy footwear and plenty of water are essential, especially during warmer months.
The site holds International Dark Sky Park status, making it exceptional for viewing stars and planets without light pollution. On clear nights, visitors can see the Milky Way stretching across the sky in striking detail.
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