Winston County, Birmingham, September 30, 2025
News Summary
Natural Bridge Park, located an hour’s drive from Birmingham, has reopened following a month-long closure due to flooding. The park features the longest natural bridge east of the Rocky Mountains, standing 60 feet high and 148 feet long, showcasing unique geological features. Visitors can enjoy a picnic and explore a nearby 2-mile trail. The reopening allows families and outdoor enthusiasts to reconnect with nature and explore Alabama’s breathtaking landscapes.
Birmingham
Natural Bridge Park, a privately-owned attraction in Winston County, has reopened following a month-long closure caused by road damage from flooding. The park, which is located just an hour’s drive from downtown Birmingham, features the longest natural bridge east of the Rocky Mountains, standing 60 feet high and extending 148 feet long.
The reopening took place on September 26, allowing visitors to once again experience the park’s main attraction, the Natural Bridge itself. This remarkable rock formation is estimated to be approximately 200 million years old and showcases unique geological features, including sandsone and iron ore deposits visible from below.
Visitors are encouraged to prepare for their adventure by wearing sturdy hiking boots as the pathway to the bridge is unpaved and can be rugged. While walking on top of the Natural Bridge is strictly prohibited to preserve its integrity, the best views can be admired from underneath the bridge.
Park Amenities and Surroundings
In addition to the breathtaking Natural Bridge, Natural Bridge Park offers visitors picnic spots and a nearby 2-mile trail that features a small waterfall. The area is accessible via I-22 or the back roads, conveniently located near the southwest edge of Winston County. The natural overhang of the bridge also provides a shaded refuge from the sun and exhibits unique acoustics that allow for conversations across the cave.
Visitors are invited to explore the park as a perfect day trip destination, with many encouraged to pack sandwiches for a picnic experience among nature’s beauty. Local exploration is key, and the park’s staff invites readers to share their favorite natural “hidden gems” around Alabama via social media.
Getting There
Natural Bridge Park is easily accessible, making it a convenient trip for residents and visitors in the Birmingham area. By traveling an hour via major highways or back roads, adventurers can quickly reach this natural wonder and immerse themselves in the beautiful Alabama landscape.
Key Features of Natural Bridge Park
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Height of Natural Bridge | 60 feet |
| Length of Natural Bridge | 148 feet |
| Age of Natural Bridge | Approximately 200 million years |
| Nearby Trail Length | 2 miles |
| Main Materials of Bridge | Sandstone and iron ore |
Conclusion
The reopening of Natural Bridge Park marks a significant opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts and families looking to explore the natural beauty of Alabama. With its stunning rock formations, hiking trails, and picnic areas, the park invites visitors to reconnect with nature and create lasting memories.
FAQ
What is the height of the Natural Bridge?
The height of the Natural Bridge is 60 feet.
How long is the Natural Bridge?
The length of the Natural Bridge is 148 feet.
How old is the Natural Bridge?
The Natural Bridge is approximately 200 million years old.
What types of materials make up the Natural Bridge?
The main materials of the Natural Bridge include sandstone and iron ore.
How long is the nearby trail?
The nearby trail is 2 miles long.
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Additional Resources
- Bham Now: Alabama’s Natural Bridge Park Reopens
- WBRC: Storm Shelters Across Central Alabama
- World Atlas: 8 Great Road Trips to Take in Alabama
- AL.com: 20 Photos of Gorgeous Waterfalls in Alabama
- The Bama Buzz: Biggest Openings and Closings in Alabama in 2024
- Wikipedia: Natural Bridge
- Google Search: Natural Bridge Alabama
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Alabama
- Google News: Natural Bridge Park
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
