Bridge Bay Campground-Natural Bridge Trail

Overview

This is an easy, family-friendly out-and-back to a genuine Yellowstone oddity: a stream-carved natural arch in volcanic rock. The hike is about 2.5 miles total (round trip) with roughly 240 feet of elevation gain and typically takes around 1–1.5 hours. It’s a great leg-stretcher if you’re staying or boating at Bridge Bay.

What You’ll See

The payoff is Natural Bridge, a 51‑foot rhyolite arch that Bridge Creek has cut through over time—an elegant reminder that water can sculpt volcanic rock as effectively as wind. Expect mostly shaded forest walking with a short, steeper switchback near the end for closer viewpoints. The top of the bridge is closed to protect this fragile feature.

Route

Start near the Bridge Bay Marina parking area, close to the campground entrance road (it’s walkable from Loop A of Bridge Bay Campground). The trail meanders through forest for roughly 0.7 miles before joining an old service road for about 0.4 miles to the arch. Most of the way is easy and mostly flat; the optional final spur is steeper and narrow.

Regulations and Safety

No pets, no motorized vehicles, no strollers, and no bicycles on the hiking portions. There is a designated bike route that begins just south of the marina along the old road; bikes are not allowed on the short, steep switchback near the bridge.

This is bear country. Hike in groups of three or more, make noise, and carry bear spray (and know how to use it). Stay at least 100 yards from bears and wolves, and 25 yards from other wildlife. The trail is generally closed in early summer when bears feed on spawning trout in Bridge Creek—check at the Fishing Bridge Visitor Center for opening dates and any closures. Don’t hike after dark, and stay on established trails. Practice Leave No Trace principles; pack out trash and never collect natural or cultural items.

Best Time to Hike

Mornings are best for cooler temps, softer light on the arch, and fewer people. Mosquitoes can be thick near the bridge, especially in warmer months—bring repellent. If you’re visiting in early summer, closures for bear activity are common; have a backup plan.

Tips

• If your group includes cyclists, consider having riders take the designated bike route while walkers use the footpath, then meet at the bridge (bikes must remain on the road and off the steep spur).
• The optional climb at the end is short but steeper—shoes with decent traction help.
• For a mellow day, pair this with time on the lake or a picnic at Bridge Bay; the trailhead is right there.