Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Get the App

Routes

Hiking trails & Routes

Cedar Creek Trail

Hiking trails & Routes

United States

Virginia

Rockbridge County

Cedar Creek Trail

Easy

3.0

(11)

hikers

Cedar Creek Trail

Q: Where does the Cedar Creek Trail start?

The trail officially begins near the Natural Bridge State Park Visitor Center . You can find parking available at the visitor center.

Q: What can I see along the route?

This scenic hike offers several notable points of interest. You'll pass by the impressive Natural Bridge of Virginia , explore the intriguing Saltpeter Cave , and enjoy the beautiful Lace Falls .

Q: Is the trail suitable for families or beginners?

Yes, the Cedar Creek Trail is rated as easy, making it a great option for families and beginner hikers. Its relatively flat terrain and short distance are ideal for a leisurely outdoor experience.

Q: Is the Cedar Creek Trail dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are generally permitted on trails within Natural Bridge State Park, including the Cedar Creek Trail, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Please remember to clean up after your pet.

Q: What is the best time of year to hike this trail?

The trail can be enjoyed year-round. Spring offers lush greenery and flowing waterfalls, while fall provides stunning foliage. Summer is pleasant, but be mindful of warmer temperatures. Winter can be beautiful, though conditions may vary.

Q: Are there any fees or permits required to access the trail?

The Cedar Creek Trail is located within Natural Bridge State Park, which typically has an entrance fee. This fee grants you access to the park's facilities and trails. Check the official Virginia State Parks website for current fee information.

Q: What is the terrain like on the Cedar Creek Trail?

The terrain is generally easy, with minimal elevation changes. It follows Cedar Creek, offering a pleasant walk through natural surroundings. While mostly smooth, some sections might have natural surfaces like dirt or gravel.

Q: Does the trail intersect other well-known paths?

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Cedar Creek Trail, Cedar Creek Trail, Cedar Creek Trail, Cedar Creek Trail, Cedar Creek Trail, Cedar Creek Trail, Cedar Creek Trail, Cedar Creek Trail, Cedar Creek Trail, and the Blue Ridge Trail.

Q: What kind of wildlife might I see?

As the trail winds through Natural Bridge State Park, you have the chance to observe various local wildlife. Keep an eye out for birds, small mammals, and other creatures native to the Virginia woodlands.

Q: Is there water available on the trail?

There are no dedicated water sources directly on the trail itself. It's recommended to bring your own water, especially during warmer months. Water is available at the Natural Bridge State Park Visitor Center .

00:59

3.60km

60m

Hiking

Embark on an easy hiking adventure along the Cedar Creek Trail, a pleasant route that winds through the natural beauty of Natural Bridge State Park. You will cover 2.2 miles (3.6 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 191 feet (58 metres), making it a perfect choice for a relaxing outing. Expect to spend around 59 minutes exploring this path, which offers a serene atmosphere and glimpses of the park's geological wonders.

To plan your visit, head to Natural Bridge State Park. Parking is readily available at the Natural Bridge State Park Visitor Center, providing a convenient starting point for your hike. While no specific permits are needed for the trail itself, remember that standard park entrance fees apply. This trail is accessible and suitable for hikers of all levels, offering a straightforward and enjoyable experience.

The Cedar Creek Trail is notable for leading you past the magnificent Natural Bridge of Virginia, a truly impressive geological formation. As you hike, you will also encounter the intriguing Saltpeter Cave and the refreshing Lace Falls, adding diverse points of interest to your journey. These features highlight the unique natural environment of the area, making the trail a memorable part of your park exploration.

Last updated: April 23, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

124 m

Natural Bridge State Park Visitor Center

Highlight • Rest Area

The Visitor Center and Bridge Entrance at Natural Bridge State Park serve as the starting point for exploring the park's main attractions, including the Natural Bridge along the Cedar Creek Trail. The Visitor Center offers amenities such as restrooms, a gift shop, and informative displays about the park's geology, history, and natural features. It's also where visitors can purchase admissions tickets and receive maps and guides for their visit. It is open from 10 am – 6 pm and the fee is $9 per persons 13 years and older, and $6 per person ages 6-12. Children younger than six are free.

Tip by

585 m

Natural Bridge of Virginia

Highlight • Natural Monument

The Natural Bridge in Virginia's Natural Bridge State Park is a stunning geological formation located along the Cedar Creek Trail. Standing 215 feet high and 90 feet wide, this natural limestone arch was carved by Cedar Creek over millions of years. The bridge has a rich history; once considered sacred by the Monacan people and later surveyed by a young George Washington, it is a National Historic Landmark, drawing visitors to marvel at it and explore the surrounding trails. The Cedar Creek Trail beneath the bridge offers a scenic 1.6-mile walk, passing by the bridge, a waterfall, and the Monacan Indian Living History Exhibit, making it a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.

Tip by

1.09 km

Saltpeter Cave

Highlight • Cave

Saltpeter Cave, located along the Cedar Creek Trail in Virginia's Natural Bridge State Park, is a small but historically significant cave. It was mined for saltpeter, a key component of gunpowder, during the early 19th century, particularly during the War of 1812. The cave's interior is relatively shallow — and you can actually go inside of it — but its historical importance adds interest to the trail.

Tip by

1.83 km

Lace Falls

Highlight • Waterfall

Lace Falls is a picturesque waterfall located at the end of the Cedar Creek Trail in Natural Bridge State Park. This 30-foot cascade marks the trail's end, where Cedar Creek tumbles over a series of rocky ledges, creating a lace-like pattern in the water. The falls are set in a peaceful wooded area, providing a nice spot for visitors to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings. Lace Falls is the perfect end for those who explore the length of the trail; they are a beautiful and quiet turn-around point after exploring the trail's many geological and historical landmarks.

Tip by

3.60 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

3.37 km

114 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

2.06 km

1.03 km

192 m

160 m

139 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Today

Friday 8 May

20°C

4°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 17.0 km/h

to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route

This route was planned by komoot.

Navigate

Send to Phone

Save

Edit route

Download GPX

Move start point

Embed on a website

Report an Issue

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does the Cedar Creek Trail start?

The trail officially begins near the Natural Bridge State Park Visitor Center. You can find parking available at the visitor center.

What can I see along the route?

This scenic hike offers several notable points of interest. You'll pass by the impressive Natural Bridge of Virginia, explore the intriguing Saltpeter Cave, and enjoy the beautiful Lace Falls.

Is the trail suitable for families or beginners?

Yes, the Cedar Creek Trail is rated as easy, making it a great option for families and beginner hikers. Its relatively flat terrain and short distance are ideal for a leisurely outdoor experience.

Is the Cedar Creek Trail dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are generally permitted on trails within Natural Bridge State Park, including the Cedar Creek Trail, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Please remember to clean up after your pet.

What is the best time of year to hike this trail?

The trail can be enjoyed year-round. Spring offers lush greenery and flowing waterfalls, while fall provides stunning foliage. Summer is pleasant, but be mindful of warmer temperatures. Winter can be beautiful, though conditions may vary.

Are there any fees or permits required to access the trail?

The Cedar Creek Trail is located within Natural Bridge State Park, which typically has an entrance fee. This fee grants you access to the park's facilities and trails. Check the official Virginia State Parks website for current fee information.

What is the terrain like on the Cedar Creek Trail?

The terrain is generally easy, with minimal elevation changes. It follows Cedar Creek, offering a pleasant walk through natural surroundings. While mostly smooth, some sections might have natural surfaces like dirt or gravel.

Does the trail intersect other well-known paths?

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Cedar Creek Trail, Cedar Creek Trail, Cedar Creek Trail, Cedar Creek Trail, Cedar Creek Trail, Cedar Creek Trail, Cedar Creek Trail, Cedar Creek Trail, Cedar Creek Trail, and the Blue Ridge Trail.

What kind of wildlife might I see?

As the trail winds through Natural Bridge State Park, you have the chance to observe various local wildlife. Keep an eye out for birds, small mammals, and other creatures native to the Virginia woodlands.

Is there water available on the trail?

There are no dedicated water sources directly on the trail itself. It's recommended to bring your own water, especially during warmer months. Water is available at the Natural Bridge State Park Visitor Center.

How long should I expect to spend on the Cedar Creek Trail?

Given its easy difficulty and approximately 3.6 km (2.2 miles) length, most hikers can comfortably complete the trail in about an hour, allowing time for stops at the various highlights.