Natural Bridges National Monument

Visit Utah’s first National Monument and the very first dark sky park.

Designated as Utah’s first National Monument in 1908 by Theodore Roosevelt, the Natural Bridges Monument features three prominent sandstone rock bridges formed by erosion from the Colorado River drainage. The Natural Bridges are located about 50 miles northwest of the Four Corners borderline. One of the bridges, named Sipapu, is the thirteenth largest natural bridge in the world. The three bridges can be viewed on Bridge View Drive, or by a trailhead that goes to the bases of each bridge. 

Another point of interest is the Pueblo Indian ruin called Horsecaller Ruin, which is visible from an overlook near Bridge View Drive. The ruin features an undisturbed rectangular kiva with the original roof and interior and two granaries with unusual oval-shaped doors resembling horse collars. The park was named the first International Dark Sky Park in 2007. This is one of the darkest and clearest skies in the United States, making it ideal for stargazing and astrophotography. You can also stay at the campground, use the free picnic area, and stop by the visitor’s center.