Natural Bridge Canyon
A short, scenic hike through a water-carved canyon to a magnificent natural arch in Death Valley.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Escape the extreme heat.
Natural Bridge Canyon
Best Time
Escape the extreme heat.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A short, scenic hike through a water-carved canyon to a magnificent natural arch in Death Valley.
"The stone you're walking on seemed a little more loose than other Death Valley trails, but well worth it."
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The trail is loose gravel, making it more challenging than it looks. Wear good hiking shoes!
💧 Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
Even for a short hike, bring ample water. Death Valley is extremely dry and hot.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Natural Bridge
Trailhead off Badwater Road
A striking natural arch carved by water, offering a unique geological spectacle. Perfect for a quick photo op.
Slot Canyon Views
Along the Natural Bridge Trail
Explore the narrow, water-sculpted canyon leading to the bridge. The rock formations are a testament to desert erosion.
Badwater Basin Vista
Parking lot of Natural Bridge Trail
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Badwater Basin, especially stunning at sunset. The colors are incredible.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Trail Conditions & Gear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The trail is loose gravel, making it more challenging than it looks. Wear good hiking shoes!
💧 Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
Even for a short hike, bring ample water. Death Valley is extremely dry and hot.
📸 Quick Photo Stop
The bridge is great for a photo, but don't plan to spend hours. The views from the parking lot are also amazing.
🚗 Rough Road to Trailhead
The drive to the trailhead is about 1.5 miles on a rough road. A higher clearance vehicle is recommended.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The trail is loose gravel, making it more challenging than it looks. Wear good hiking shoes!
💧 Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
Even for a short hike, bring ample water. Death Valley is extremely dry and hot.
📸 Quick Photo Stop
The bridge is great for a photo, but don't plan to spend hours. The views from the parking lot are also amazing.
🚗 Rough Road to Trailhead
The drive to the trailhead is about 1.5 miles on a rough road. A higher clearance vehicle is recommended.
☀️ Avoid Midday Sun
Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid the intense desert sun and heat.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Natural Bridge Canyon hike beautiful and accessible, with a striking natural arch as the highlight. While the trail's loose gravel presents a moderate challenge, the geological formations and views, especially at sunset, are highly praised. Some note it's more of a quick photo stop than an extended trek.
"Almost anyone can do this beautiful hike. The natural bridge is only 0.4 miles from the trailhead and the dry waterfall is only 0.1 mile after the bridge. Total hike 1 mile just for that, but the stone you're walking on seemed a little more loose than other Death Valley trails, so it seemed like we were almost walking on sand going up but we'll worth it. The water carved slot canyon is gorgeous."
Robert Henry
"The bridge is really only exciting for a quick photo op. It’s a fast, fun hike, so there isn’t really anything to lose. But I wouldn’t spend a lot of time. Honestly, the best part is the view from the parking lot of Badwater Basin. The view at sunset is incredible."
Ben Nicholson
"Shorter trail but it is all loose gravel, which makes this short trail more challenging than you would think. Definitely do with cooler temps and the gravel makes for extra exertion. More challenging than Golden Canyon and Red Cathedral but shorter distance. We vary much enjoyed it"
patricia tanis
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Natural Bridge Canyon is located off Badwater Road in Death Valley National Park. The turnoff is well-marked. The final 1.5 miles to the trailhead are on a rough, unpaved road that may require a higher clearance vehicle, though many sedans can manage it slowly.
No, public transport does not service Natural Bridge Canyon. You will need your own vehicle to access this area of Death Valley National Park.
From Furnace Creek Visitor Center, it's approximately a 30-40 minute drive south on Badwater Road to the Natural Bridge Canyon trailhead.
While possible, the 1.5-mile dirt road to the trailhead can be rough. Drive slowly and cautiously if you are in a sedan. An SUV or vehicle with higher clearance is recommended for a smoother ride.
Yes, there is a small parking area at the trailhead. It can fill up during peak times, so arriving early is advisable.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, Death Valley National Park requires an entrance fee per vehicle. You can purchase passes at the entrance stations or online in advance.
No, there is no separate fee to hike to Natural Bridge Canyon. Your Death Valley National Park entrance pass covers access to all trails within the park.
Natural Bridge Canyon is accessible year-round, 24 hours a day. However, it is highly recommended to visit during daylight hours for safety and visibility.
It's best to purchase your park pass in advance online to save time upon arrival, especially during busy seasons.
No permits are required for day hiking to Natural Bridge Canyon. However, if you plan to backpack in the park, you will need a backcountry permit.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike to the Natural Bridge itself is about 0.4 miles one way, making it a 0.8-mile round trip. Including the walk to the dry waterfall at the end of the canyon adds to the total distance.
The trail is considered moderate due to the loose gravel and sandy terrain, which can make footing challenging. It's a short distance but requires some exertion.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended due to the desert heat. A hat and sunglasses are essential.
No, there are no restrooms at the Natural Bridge Canyon trailhead. Be prepared to use facilities at Furnace Creek Visitor Center before or after your hike.
The trail offers very little shade. You will be exposed to direct sunlight for most of the hike, so sun protection is crucial.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Late afternoon, especially around sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for photography. The golden hour light illuminates the rock formations beautifully.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the bridge and the canyon. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions during sunrise or sunset.
The natural bridge itself is the main subject. Also, look for interesting rock formations within the slot canyon and the panoramic views of Badwater Basin from the parking lot.
Drone usage is restricted in Death Valley National Park to protect wildlife and preserve the natural environment. Check the NPS website for current regulations.
Experiment with shooting from below to emphasize its arch, or from the side to show its scale against the canyon walls. The view from the parking lot looking towards Badwater Basin is also a popular photo opportunity.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Kids will likely be fascinated by the slot canyon and the impressive natural arch. It’s a fantastic opportunity to teach them about erosion and desert geology in a hands-on way. The views from the parking lot of Badwater Basin are also a good spot for families to enjoy without extensive hiking. Consider visiting during the cooler parts of the day to make the experience more comfortable for everyone.
📸 Photographers
The views from the parking lot overlooking Badwater Basin are also spectacular, particularly at sunset. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the basin and the dramatic sky. Be mindful of the challenging terrain underfoot when setting up shots, and always prioritize safety.
🚶♀️ Casual Hikers & Day-Trippers
Combine this stop with other nearby attractions like Badwater Basin and Artist's Palette for a well-rounded experience. Remember to pack essentials like water and sun protection, and aim for cooler parts of the day. The unique rock formations and scenic views make it a worthwhile stop for any visitor exploring the park.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology of Natural Bridge Canyon
Visitors can observe the slot canyon formations, where water has squeezed through narrow passages, leaving behind smooth, sculpted rock. The bridge itself is a testament to the persistence of water in even the driest of climates. It's a relatively short hike, but the geological features are significant and offer a glimpse into the dynamic processes that continue to shape Death Valley.
Understanding the geology enhances the appreciation for this natural wonder. It’s not just a rock formation; it’s a story told in stone, shaped by the rare but powerful forces of desert hydrology. The contrast between the harsh desert environment and the delicate artistry of water erosion is truly remarkable.
Hiking the Natural Bridge Trail
While the hike is short, it's crucial to be prepared for the desert conditions. Bring plenty of water, as there is no water available along the trail. Sun protection, including a hat and sunscreen, is also vital due to the intense sun exposure and lack of shade. The best times to hike are during the cooler months of fall, winter, and spring, ideally in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the extreme midday heat.
Many visitors find the hike to be a rewarding experience, offering dramatic geological formations and impressive views. The slot canyon leading to the bridge is particularly photogenic. While the bridge itself is a quick photo opportunity, the overall experience of navigating the canyon and appreciating the desert landscape is well worth the effort.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit