Sewanee Natural Bridge facts for kids
The Sewanee Natural Bridge is an amazing stone arch located in Franklin County, Tennessee. It stands about 25 feet (7.6 meters) tall and stretches 50 feet (15.2 meters) wide. Imagine a giant stone bridge made by nature! This special place is a designated state natural area, covering about 3 acres (1.2 hectares).
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Discover Sewanee Natural Bridge
This natural bridge is like a huge sandstone arch. It was once a large sinkhole that slowly changed over time. Part of the sinkhole eroded away, leaving behind this impressive stone bridge. It's a cool example of how nature can sculpt the land.
How Was This Stone Arch Formed?
The Sewanee Natural Bridge formed over many, many years. Water played a big role in shaping it. There's a wet weather spring in a rock cave behind the bridge. This spring probably helped wear away the rock. This process, called erosion, slowly carved out the arch we see today. It shows the power of water and time working together.
The Story Behind the Name
You might wonder why it's called the Sewanee Natural Bridge. It gets its name because it used to be owned by the University of the South. This university is located in Sewanee, Tennessee. So, the name connects this natural wonder to its past owners and the nearby town.
How to Visit This Natural Wonder
Visiting the Sewanee Natural Bridge is an exciting adventure! To get there, you'll take Highway Alt. 41. When you reach Sewanee, turn south onto Highway 56. Drive for about 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) until you see Natural Bridge Road. Turn left onto Natural Bridge Road and go about half a mile (0.8 kilometers). You'll find a parking area there, ready for your exploration!
