Pomona Natural Bridge, Illinois Ozarks Travel Guide

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Discover a natural wonder in Shawnee National Forest: Hike across the impressive Pomona Natural Bridge, a testament to time and nature's artistry.

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Pomona Natural Bridge

Pomona Natural Bridge is a 90-foot sandstone arch carved by erosion over millennia, located in the Shawnee National Forest near Pomona, Illinois. A short, scenic trail allows visitors to walk across this unique geological formation and admire the surrounding forest.

A brief summary to Pomona Natural Bridge

Natural Bridge Rd, Pomona, Illinois, 62975, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Pomona Natural Bridge.

Wear sturdy shoes, as the trail can be steep and slippery, especially when wet.
Bring insect repellent, especially during the summer and early fall.
Stay on the designated trail to avoid poison ivy and venomous snakes.
Pack out all trash, as there are no trash cans on site.
Visit after a rain for seasonal waterfalls.

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Explore Pomona Natural Bridge on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Pomona Natural Bridge, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

To reach Pomona Natural Bridge from Illinois Route 127, turn west onto Pomona Road. Continue for approximately 0.7 miles to Natural Bridge Road and turn right. Follow Natural Bridge Road for about 2 miles, veering left at the 'Y' in the road to stay on Natural Bridge Road. Continue for 0.25 miles to the trailhead parking lot. Be aware that Natural Bridge Road becomes a gravel road with potential potholes. Drive slowly and cautiously, especially after heavy rains. Parking is free at the trailhead.
Walking

From the parking area, the Pomona Natural Bridge Trail begins with a short descent into the forest. Follow the gravel path, marked with blue signs. After a few hundred yards, the path forks, marking the beginning of a loop. Either direction will lead to the bridge, but the left path is slightly easier and more suitable for families. The loop is approximately 0.3 miles long and will take you around and over the natural bridge. There are no fees or special transport tickets required to access the trail.

Discover more about Pomona Natural Bridge

Nestled within the Shawnee National Forest, near the village of Pomona, Illinois, lies the Pomona Natural Bridge, a testament to the power of natural erosion. This impressive sandstone arch spans 90 feet across a rocky ravine, standing approximately 30 feet high. Formed over centuries by wind and water, the bridge offers a unique glimpse into the geological history of the region.The Pomona Natural Bridge trail is a 0.3-mile loop that takes visitors through a mature hardwood forest of oak, hickory, and beech trees. The trail, originally built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s, descends into a narrow canyon with seasonal waterfalls, caves, and lush greenery. Hikers can walk across the top of the bridge, offering stunning views of the surrounding forest. Stone steps lead down to the base of the bridge, providing a different perspective of the natural arch.Visitors can enjoy a picnic at the trailhead, with picnic tables and grills available. The area is also a popular spot for birdwatching and wildlife viewing. The surrounding forest is home to a variety of plant and animal life, including deer, wild turkey, and various species of birds.