Pomona Natural Bridge Trail


Area Status: Open
Natural bridge

This short loop-trail (0.3 mile) winds through a mature oak-hickory and beech forest as it descends an overlook reveals a view of the arch or "bridge" made of sandstone for which it is named.  The stone arch or natural bridge as they usually called spans 90 feet across and is the result of millions of years of erosion. 

This Trail is rated moderate due to some steep slopes. It contains rock and dirt surfaces that can be slippery when wet. The Trail leads out on top and across the natural bridge, before looping back to the trailhead.  

At a Glance

Area Amenities: Picnic tables,Parking
Open Season: Year-round; daily 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Restrictions:
  • Site is open daily 6am-10pm. 
  • No overnight parking allowed.
  • Pack It In, Pack It Out - no garbage recepticles. 
  • Stay on the designated trail.
  • Pets are allowed, but must be on a leash at all times.
Closest Towns: Pomona, IL 62975
Restroom: No restrooms
Information Center: Mississippi Bluffs Ranger District (618) 833-8576

General Information

Directions:

From Jonesboro: Take Highway 146 west 2.5 miles, then take Highway 127 north 12 miles to Pomona Road. Go west on Pomona Rd. 0.7 mile to Natural Bridge Road. Turn north (right) onto Natural Bridge Rd and continue 2 miles to the “Y” in the road; Veer left, onto recreation entrance road, continue 0.25 miles to trailhead parking lot.

From Murphysboro: Take Highway 127 south 10 miles to Pomona Road. Go west on Pomona Rd. 0.7 mile to Natural Bridge Road. Turn north (right) onto Natural Bridge Rd and continue 2 miles to the “Y” in the road; Veer left, onto recreation entrance road, continue 0.25 miles to trailhead parking lot.


General Notes:

Downloadable Brochures and Maps

Pomona Natural Bridge Brochure and Map

Know Before You Go

  • Venomous snakes can be found in this area; watch where you place hands and feet. If you encounter a snake give a wide birth and back away until it leaves the area.
  • Poison ivy is prevalent throughout the Shawnee National Forest.  Wash skin and clothing throughly after hiking.

Recreation Map

Map showing recreational areas. Map Information

Activities

Day Hiking

Viewing Plants

Viewing Scenery

Amenities

Picnic tables: Grill
Parking:

Recreation Areas

Recreation Activities

Location

 
  Latitude : 
37.648613

  Longitude : 
-89.344444