Tucked away in rural northwest Alabama, near the western edge of the Bankhead National Forest, in Winston County, is the Natural Bridge Park, which offers a unique outdoor experience year-round.
The bridge itself is, according to the park, the longest rock arch east of the Rockies; it extends 148 feet across and 60 feet above the forest floor. It dates to 200 million years ago when the sea washed the sandstone away, leaving iron ore veins holding the bridge.
The property is home to numerous varieties of ferns as well as a stand of eastern hemlock typically found much farther north, as well as dogwoods, wild magnolia and cedars. Colorful foliage is on display in the fall, and wildflowers bloom in the spring. It totals 149 acres, with 20 acres open for trails.
Native Americans likely used the site as a shelter during their history, giving rise to a local legend that they carved an “Indian head” in one of the formations, but it is highly unlikely to be a human-made structure, according to the Encyclopedia of Alabama.
While the expansive bridge is the focal point of the park, there are ample opportunities for bird and wildlife watching and for exploring the caverns. Plentiful rains will reveal a small waterfall and stream.
Donnie and Naomi Lowman have owned the park for a couple of years, and though they are not from the area, they own property across the road and when the park came up for sale, they bought it. Taking care of the grounds is a year-round, family affair.
The park opened in 1954. “People love the park,” Naomi Lowman says. “Some have good memories coming here with family and come back to bring their children and grandchildren.”
Visitors from across the country and the world have visited, Lowman says. “Italy, Switzerland – you name it.”
The Lowmans are planning to build some tiny cabins on the property; most visitors are passing through or staying at nearby campgrounds.
The park is worth a stretch-your-legs stop to break up a long drive in north Alabama; enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the tables near the entrance, which features a gift shop and bathrooms. A pavilion is available for rentals. Admission is $10, and no pets are allowed.
An easy one-mile loop trail leads to the arch and is suitable for beginners, but wear sturdy shoes. Visitors are prohibited from walking on the bridge for safety reasons, but the view from underneath the trail is remarkable.
