Natural Bridges Trailhead: A Geologic Wonder
Discover natural limestone caves, hike scenic trails, and swim in refreshing waters at Natural Bridges near Vallecito, California.
Hike through oak woodlands to discover the unique Natural Bridges, limestone caves carved by Coyote Creek. Swim or wade through the tunnels, marvel at the formations, and enjoy a refreshing experience in this natural wonder near Vallecito, California.
A brief summary to Natural Bridges Trailhead
- Parrotts Ferry Rd, Vallecito, California, 95251, US
- +1209-536-9094
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, as parking is limited and the trail can get crowded.
- Bring swimwear and water shoes to fully enjoy the experience of wading or swimming through the caves.
- Be mindful of the delicate limestone formations and avoid touching the walls to protect them.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy in the designated picnic areas along the trail.
- Check water levels and conditions before visiting, as they can vary seasonally.
Getting There
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Driving
From Vallecito, head south on Parrotts Ferry Road for approximately 3.7 miles. The Natural Bridges Day Use Area will be on your right, marked with a sign. Limited parking is available in the parking lot. Be aware of 'No Parking' zones along Parrotts Ferry Road. Parking pass is required and costs $8, and can be purchased at the New Melones Lake Visitor Center.
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Walking
From Moaning Cavern Adventure Park, walk south on Parrotts Ferry Road for a short distance. The Natural Bridges Trailhead will be on your left, approximately next door to the park. Be cautious of traffic along Parrotts Ferry Road.
Discover more about Natural Bridges Trailhead
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Vallecito Bell Monument (California Historical Landmark No. 370)
3.8 km
Discover the Vallecito Bell Monument, a cherished California Historical Landmark that encapsulates the rich heritage of the Gold Rush era.
California Historical Landmark 274: Carson Hill
4.1 km
Experience the allure of the Gold Rush at Carson Hill, a historical landmark in California that unveils the rich tapestry of the state's heritage.
California Historical Landmark 769: Birthplace of Archie Stevenot
4.1 km
Explore the Birthplace of Archie Stevenot, a California Historical Landmark that celebrates the rich history and cultural heritage of Angels Camp.
Vallecito State Historic Landmark
4.2 km
Explore Vallecito State Historic Landmark in Angels Camp, CA - a treasure trove of Gold Rush history set amidst stunning natural landscapes.
Springfield (California Historical Landmark #432)
6.1 km
Experience the heart of California's history at Springfield, a captivating historical landmark in the charming town of Columbia.
Angels Camp (California Historical Landmark No. 287)
6.2 km
Explore Angels Camp, a historical landmark in California's Gold Rush country, where rich history meets stunning natural beauty.
California Historical Landmark 734: Angels Hotel
6.2 km
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California Historical Landmark 123: Columbia
6.4 km
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California Historical Landmark 138: Mark Twain Cabin
6.8 km
Explore the historic Mark Twain Cabin in Sonora, California, where literary history meets breathtaking natural beauty.
California Historical Landmark 288: Altaville
7.2 km
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The Prince-Garibardi Building (California Historical Landmark No. 735)
7.9 km
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Shaw's Flat (California Historical Landmark #395)
8.2 km
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California Historical Landmark 424: Sawmill Flat
8.7 km
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California Historical Landmark 465: Site of Brownsville
8.9 km
Explore the rich history of California's Gold Rush at the California Historical Landmark 465: Site of Brownsville in Murphys, offering a glimpse into the past.
Murphys (California Historical Landmark No. 275)
9.5 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Moaning Caverns Adventure Park
1.9 km
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Mark Twain Cabin
5.9 km
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Gold Rush Originals
6.3 km
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Columbia State Historic Park
6.5 km
Experience the charm of California's Gold Rush at Columbia State Historic Park, where history comes alive in a captivating setting.
Angels Camp Museum
7.0 km
Discover California's Gold Rush history at Angels Camp Museum: Explore exhibits, carriages, and Mark Twain's legacy in a captivating historical park experience for all ages.
Dragoon Gulch Trail Head
10.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Dragoon Gulch Trail Head in Sonora, CA—a perfect hiking destination for all nature lovers.
Mercer Caverns
11.1 km
Discover the stunning beauty and rich history of Mercer Caverns, a captivating underground attraction in Murphys, California.
California Gold Panning
12.5 km
Experience the thrill of panning for gold in Jamestown, California, and connect with the rich history of the Gold Rush era.
California Cavern State Historic Landmark
17.1 km
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San Antonio Creek Falls
24.1 km
Experience the serene beauty of San Antonio Creek Falls, a hidden gem in the Sierra Nevada, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers seeking tranquility.
Calaveras Big Trees State Park
28.8 km
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Information Center
30.9 km
Discover the heart of California's Gold Country at Knights Ferry, where history meets outdoor adventure along the scenic Stanislaus River.
Knights Ferry Recreation Area
31.0 km
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STANISLAUS RIVER PARKS
31.0 km
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Groveland Yosemite Gateway Museum
31.9 km
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Essential places to dine
The Restaurant at Rush Creek Lodge
58.2 km
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Squeeze In
58.5 km
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Strings Italian Cafe Modesto
59.6 km
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Rivets American Grill
59.9 km
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Ciao Bella Ristorante
60.5 km
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Wildfire Public House
60.5 km
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The Secret Garden
60.6 km
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The Twisted Pig Bar and Grill
60.6 km
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Bella Italia
60.7 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Bella Italia in Modesto—where every meal is a celebration of flavor and tradition.
Papapolloni Mediterranean Bistro
62.0 km
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Velvet Grill & Creamery
62.1 km
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Papapavlo's Mediterranean Bistro & Bar
62.5 km
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Verona's Cucina Italiana
62.6 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Verona's Cucina Italiana in Modesto - where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
La Parrilla Mexican Restaurant & Bar
62.6 km
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Divine Swine Restaurant & Bar
63.8 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Yosemite Adventure Supplies
31.9 km
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Yosemite Lakes Country Store
53.6 km
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Shaws hole 'n' the Wall
58.8 km
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The Lakes Shopping Center
59.6 km
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Amy's Hallmark Shop
61.1 km
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American Cancer Society Discovery Shop
61.2 km
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INCREDIBLE FINDS 209
61.4 km
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Priceless Treasures Thrift Shp
61.7 km
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FYE
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Chasing Nostalgia
62.0 km
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Threads Consignment Boutique
62.3 km
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Celebrating You Shop
62.3 km
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The Boutique
62.4 km
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Royal Robbins Modesto Store
62.4 km
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Eve & Me
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Tap Room Pub and Grub
56.6 km
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Donoby’s Bar
60.5 km
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Low Key Saloon
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P Wexford's Pub
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O'Brian's Tavern
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Vieira's Lounge
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Spinnaker Lounge
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White Elephant Lounge
63.0 km
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June bugs bar
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Tiki Lounge
63.5 km
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Bookies Bar & Grill
63.6 km
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The Brass Tap
63.8 km
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The Running Iron
63.9 km
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The Boardroom
64.5 km
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SpeakEasy Lounge
64.9 km
Experience the spirit of Modesto at SpeakEasy Lounge, where craft cocktails, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere await you.
