Natural Bridge Trail

Natural Bridge Trail is a 1.75-mile out-and-back spur from the Northern Loop near Windy Gap to a stone arch above Lakes James and Ethel. That figure covers only the spur and return; the backcountry approach is much longer. I'd add it only if you're already planning to hike the north-side backcountry. The mapped spur is about 0.8 mile each way, consistent with the round-trip distance.

From Sunrise, begin at the Sourdough Ridge Trailhead north of the main parking lot, then follow Sourdough Ridge to Frozen Lake and the Wonderland Trail before joining the Northern Loop toward Windy Gap. A second approach starts at Carbon River Entrance and follows the former road to Ipsut Creek, then Wonderland Trail and the steep Northern Loop climb. Either way, this is a remote backcountry detour, not a roadside walk. Allow about two hours for the spur itself, plus the approach. Overnight camping along the route requires a wilderness permit.

The unmaintained spur climbs a little before dropping several hundred feet to Natural Bridge; you regain that descent on the way back. The stone span sits on a hillside above the lakes, with forested slopes giving the arch scale. Lake James was named in 1912 for Park Ranger Thomas O'Farrell's son.

Mountain goats frequent the Tyee Peak and Crescent Mountain area around the gap, so binoculars can help you pick them out. Treat natural water before drinking it, and leave pets at home; they aren't allowed on park trails.