Owachomo Bridge

Owachomo Bridge is a great introductory hike to exploring Natural Bridges National Monument. This short trail provides quick access to an impressive natural bridge with a span of 180 feet. The hike is relatively short at just under one-half mile round trip; however an elevation change of about 180 feet increases the difficulty. This hike is suitable for most healthy adults and children.

The Owachomo Bridge Trailhead is located on Bridge View Drive in Natural Bridges National Monument. To reach the trailhead from Blanding, UT:

1. Drive 3.9 miles south on US 191.
2. Turn right (west) onto UT-95.
3. Drive 30.2 miles west on UT-95 to the signed junction with UT-275.
4. Turn right (north) onto UT-275 toward Natural Bridges National Monument.
5. Drive 4.4 miles to the Natural Bridges Visitor Center on the right where you must stop to pay a $10 per vehicle entrance fee or present a valid federal lands pass.
6. Continue driving past the Visitor Center for .6 miles to the start of Bridge View Drive (one-way).
7. Continue 5 miles to the signed parking area for Owachomo Bridge on the right (37.585139,-110.013722).

Note: There is a $10 per vehicle fee to enter Natural Bridges National Monument.

From the parking area, begin walking south on a short paved trail toward Owachomo Bridge. At the end of the paved trail, an overlook provides an excellent view of the bridge; you’ll want to press on however as the view from underneath the massive bridge itself is even more grand. Leave the paved pathway on the marked trail and continue hiking downhill toward Owachomo Bridge. The trail is well marked as it traverses slickrock and constructed stone steps down the slope toward the bridge. As you hike down the trail, be sure to look up and see the ever-changing view of this natural wonder.

After one-quarter mile, the trail ends in a sculpted sandstone canyon bottom directly below the bridge itself (37.582329,-110.014142). The reason this is called a natural bridge, rather than an arch, is because it spans a watercourse. The watercourse is often dry, but rain and snowmelt can quickly change that. Take in the views of the bridge and return the way you came.

• Pack out all trash.
• Stay on trails.
• Do not draw or carve on rocks.
• No climbing on the bridge.

• This area can be extremely hot during spring, summer and fall. Carry plenty of water and wear appropriate clothing.
• Do not enter canyons when significant precipitation is in the forecast. Flash floods can strike quickly and without warning.

This trail guide is provided by Backcountry Post.