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Agate Bridge: A Petrified Wonder

Witness a 110-foot petrified log bridge sculpted by time in Petrified Forest National Park, a testament to nature's enduring power.

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Agate Bridge is a 110-foot petrified log spanning a gully within Petrified Forest National Park. Once a popular spot for photos, it's now admired from afar, showcasing the park's ancient history and geological forces at play.

A brief summary to Agate Bridge

Local tips

  • Bring water and wear sun protection, as the area is exposed and can be very hot, especially during summer.
  • Stay on designated trails to protect the fragile environment and avoid disturbing the petrified wood.
  • Visit during the spring or fall for more comfortable temperatures for hiking and exploring.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Agate Bridge is located along the main park road, 10 miles from the south entrance or 18 miles from the north entrance. From either entrance, follow the park road, a 28-mile scenic drive with multiple viewpoints. Agate Bridge is well-signed. Be aware that RVs should avoid the Agate Bridge due to a tight turnaround if other vehicles are present. The entrance fee to the park is $25 per vehicle, valid for seven days.

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Discover more about Agate Bridge

Agate Bridge, located in Petrified Forest National Park, is a remarkable testament to time and geological processes. This 110-foot petrified log stretches across a 40-foot wide gully, creating a natural bridge. The bridge is about 10 miles from the park's south entrance and 18 miles from the north entrance. Originally called Natural Bridge, it became a popular attraction, with visitors posing on top of it. However, concerns about its stability led to the construction of masonry pillars in 1911 to support the log. These were later replaced by a concrete span in 1917. Today, the National Park Service's philosophy is to allow natural forces to shape the landscape, so no further interventions are planned, even though the bridge is expected to eventually collapse. Agate Bridge is a reminder of the forces that have shaped the region over millions of years. Rainwater gradually eroded the softer sandstone beneath the petrified log, forming the gully. The petrified wood, composed of dense silica, proved more resistant to erosion, resulting in the natural bridge. While visitors can no longer walk on the bridge, there are viewpoints and a short trail offering excellent perspectives of this unique geological feature.

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