Natural Bridges is a trail-head that leads to a natural swimming pool in a cave. The limestone cave is beautifully covered by moss, and the ice-cold water of Coyote Creek makes for a perfect spot to escape the hot dry summers.
WHO CAN ENJOY THIS DESTINATION
This is a popular destination for the locals, so be sure to get here early in the morning and I promise you’ll have the entire place to yourself! This spot is perfect for anyone who loves hiking, photography and swimming! It is free to park and swim here. You can easily make this a full day trip. This is a great place for those seeking adventure or for dates with friends and family.
WHAT IS IT
Natural Bridges is a trail-head that leads to a natural swimming pool in a cave. The limestone cave is beautifully covered by moss, and the ice-cold water of Coyote Creek makes for a perfect spot to escape the hot dry summers. The water in the cave is cold due to runoff from melted snow off the Sierra Mountain Range. The floor of the river and cave is lined with rocks so I would recommend bringing water shoes as well to protect the bottom of your feet. For exploring, I recommend bringing a tube or something you can float on so you can enjoy the inside of the water cave.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT
You can visit Natural Bridges year round, but I recommend going in the Spring, Summer or early Fall. In the summer it is busy and often crowded with people. If you plan on going here early in the morning, you can have the whole place to yourself!
WHERE IS IT
Natural Bridges is located in Calaveras County. You can find the trail by typing in Natural Bridges in your navigation and selecting the option located in Vallecito, or by plugging in this address into your navigation: Parrotts Ferry Rd, Vallecito, CA 95251.
As you are approaching the destination be warned that it is a sharp turn onto the location. Slow down and be prepared as you approach the turn.
HOW TO GET TO THE CAVE
You will see a paved one-way road at the start of the trail. The paved road is a great spot to park and also has a public restroom. The trail is about a two-mile hike round trip. It is a very steep hike! I would recommend making sure you have good walking shoes. The start of the trail can be a little tricky to locate. You do not walk down the paved road but right into the opening between the gates. Start by heading down the main trail. The trail will take you through a patch covered with shade by the trees. Continue to pass the fence, a wooden bridge over a small creek, and down the dirt-covered roads. You will pass a few picnic tables as you approach the cave. The trail will end at Coyote Creek in the Upper Natural Bridges. The limestone cave is covered in moss and growth and has some lovely blackberry bushes growing near it.
As a reminder, please be respectful of the location. Do not litter or trash the area. This is a beautiful spot and we should do all that we can to respect and care for it. Be kind to others who you may encounter here. Everyone I have ever met here has been very nice and friendly.