Sipapu Bridge

Sipapu Bridge is an incredible hike to one of the largest Natural Bridges on earth. This thing is truly massive at 220 feet high and 268 feet wide. Its name is a Hopi term meaning the opening between worlds. This trail is known for being the largest natural bridge or arch with a trail directly beneath it. This is a steep but short route that is a great time! There is only one road into the monument making it nearly impossible to get lost. The trail head is very well signed and easy to find. The sign at the top does a good job telling you what to expect. The views from the top of the deep canyons below you are great as you start off your hike and immediately begin to descend. You will quickly reach the staircase sections of the trail. Right after the stairs you will reach the first ladder. After the ladder the trail flattens out for a bit as you follow a narrow ledge right along the base of the cliffs. From here you will get your first view of the bridge. There was also one of the larger bird bathrooms I have seen. You will come to a small ruin that is where you can stop at the viewpoint or continue to the base of the bridge. Walk a short way past the ruin to see the overlook. The views are nice and make it about half the elevation gain for people with less energy.