Natural Bridge

One of the busiest state parks in Wisconsin is just south of Baraboo; Devil's Lake State Park offers a great lake; incredible beauty with woods and majestic bluffs; a variety of hiking trails; and popular camp sites.

Less than 20 miles southwest is a "boutique" variety attraction, Natural Bridge State Park.

A remarkable natural landmark is the park's focal point.

Maybe a half to three-quarters of a mile hike uphill from the parking lot, the bridge reveals itself between a natural portal of hills.

Just a little more than 3 stories tall, the sandstone bridge is said to have been created by dissolving mineral deposits which held grains of sand together.

Combine erosion caused by water, frost, wind, and gravity and there it is - the largest natural arch in Wisconsin.

It still stands because glaciers didn't pass through this section of the state known as the drift-less area.

Located to the side of the bridge, near the base,.is a natural shelter.

Years ago, it was likely an early home for natives needing a place out of the rain and safe from predators.

And the view!  It probably listed for big bucks back in the day.


If you look closely at the top photo you can see some visitors walking on top of the bridge providing some context to the size of this beauty spot.

For me, this park was hard to find.  Last year, I turned off Highway 12 where the sign indicated the park was west on County Road C.

I followed the road for miles, tracing turn after turn until I landed in a city twenty miles down the road and no evidence of a park anywhere.

This last time I took the same turn and followed the same road; this time there was a sign.  I can only conclude there was no sign the first time I tried to find this park - either way - look for this gem of a park; it's worth it.