IMPORTANT: It's forbidden to walk across the bridge. You'll find an interpretive sign within view of Yellowstone’s Natural Bridge. The elevation is around 7800' so take it nice and easy if you're not altitude acclimated yet and I also suggest taking water with you.
Natural bridges such as this one are created primarily by the action of water, whereas natural arches result from wind-driven soils. Frost and erosion formed this natural bridge. The structure is composed of rhyolite, a volcanic rock closely related to granite. Bridge Creek found an underground route through cracks in the rock, freezing broke away pieces and erosion carried the rubble away, leaving the isolated bridge above. Discovered in 1871 and made available to the public in 1881 when a trail was constructed across the span.
Accessible from two trailheads by a 2+ mile easy roundtrip hike or bike ride. The hiking trailhead is located near the Bridge Bay Marina, park in the marina's lot. The bike trailhead is located just south of the marina off the main road and includes a small parking area. The bike trail follows an old paved spur road almost all the way. A short and steep switchback trail leads up to the bridge, however travel across the top is prohibited to protect this feature for future generations. If you do decide to go up, you will find yourself behind the bridge where a photo opportunity exists looking back and under. Watch for yellow-bellied marmots in the area, I was able to observe a pair playing.
After returning to the trailhead I'd like to suggest trying some huckleberry ice cream from the general store at the marina.
In order to claim this cache you must (1) post a photo of the bridge with your gps unit, include yourself or a member of your team if possible (the photo is now optional), and (2) send me an email telling how "wide" and how "high" the span is above the creek. This information is available at the co-ordinates.
The trails may be closed from late spring to early summer due to bear activity, as grizzlies feed on spawning trout in Bridge Creek during this time of year.
