Natural Bridge of Arkansas

Driving along U.S. Highway 65, just a few miles from Clinton, Arkansas, sign after sign beckons: “See a world wonder: the Natural Bridge of Arkansas!” Your curiosity piqued, you pull off at the final massive sign and continue down the winding mountain road, navigating several sharp hairpin turns.

You can’t see the bridge from the entrance; you have to pay admission first, but once you’re in, walk the very short stone pathway to take in the impressive geological wonder. 

The Natural Bridge is a 120-foot arched sandstone formation set in a serene, quiet natural setting near Little Johnny Creek. Fall is a popular time to visit, with its vibrant show of colorful leaves.

In the 19th century, it served as a bridge for loggers and transported covered wagons. Large groups also would visit the structure at leisure and snap photos from the top. 

Lovers of old-timey things can also step inside two 19th-century log cabins that are on-site and packed with vintage items from jugs and pottery to wagon wheels, horseshoes, irons, farming tools, and other metal and glassworks of the era. There’s also a covered wagon.