Natural Bridge Road
Ponoma, Illinois
618-253-7114
This fascinating stone arch, often referred to as a natural bridge, was formed by the forces of erosion over millions of years and has been a popular tourist spot since the late 1800s. This formation and other rock outcrops in the area consist of sandstone, a fairly soft, erodible bedrock. Water exerted its most powerful effect here, gradually washing away softer, less resistant sandstone leaving a natural rock bridge, spanning 90 feet. The area features a easy to moderate 1/3-mile short loop trail that leads through a mature oak-hickory and beech forest. As the trail descends to the creek bottom an overlook reveals a view of the natural bridge from above. There is a great photo spot at the base of the rock bridge where a semicircle of trees and rock outcroppings serve as a beautiful backdrop for this natural wonder. The trailhead signs explain the geology of the area.
Visiting the Ponoma Natural Bridge
Hours: 6 am - 10 pm
There is no charge to visit the Ponoma Natural Bridge
Learn more about the Jackson County area.
Ponoma Natural Bridge - The official web page of the Ponoma Natural Bridge area provided by the U.S. Forest Service.