Hood's Branch Trail

Description

Hood’s Branch Trail leads into the heart of Natural Bridge and is just long enough so the crowds will be left behind. The trail begins under Natural Bridge and follows the base of the cliffs eventually leading hikers to cross a small stream named Upper Hood Branch. Near this area which is approximately the halfway point, hikers will see an optional .75 mile upper loop trail that splits off to the left. This upper loop leads hikers to a couple of large sandstone rock shelters and then eventually back to the same spot. About 2.25-miles from the Natural Bridge on the Hood’s Branch Trail, the trail passes through a swampy section that was once cleared for a small farm. Cross two small footbridges and you’ll soon see a trail shelter built by the Civilian Conservation Corps when they maintained a camp at Natural Bridge in the 1930’s. From here you are .75-mile from the Hood Branch trailhead that is located near the miniature golf parking area.