There are plenty of hidden gems and fairy tale places around the Prairie State that are nothing short of magical. One such hidden gem, a natural rock bridge, is found within the stunning Shawnee National Forest. If you happen to find yourself in Southern Illinois, the Pomona Natural Bridge is a magical sight worth finding.

Shawnee National Forest covers an area of over 254,000 acres. It’s filled with forests, lakes, waterfalls, sandstone cliffs, and other natural wonders like the Pomona Natural Bridge.

Christine Arason/Google

Accessible via a short 0.3-mile loop trail, Pomona Natural Bridge is a hidden gem worth seeking out. The trail does have some steep and rocky areas, so be prepared.

Amy Wright/AllTrails

Along the way, you’ll go through the woods with plenty of flora and fauna, as well as a beautiful waterfall. Take your time and enjoy the scenery along the way to the bridge.

Amy Wright/AllTrails

Once you get your first glimpse of the bridge, prepared to be wowed! The Pomona Natural Bridge is a sight to behold at 90 feet long and over eight feet at its widest point.

Evan Artinger/AllTrails

The tallest part of the bridge is 30 feet on one end while the other end is approximately 25 feet high.

Carrie Blaine/AllTrails

The bridge is made of sandstone that was carved out by water over the course of thousands of years. This natural wonder in Illinois is a must-see attraction.

Amy Wright/AllTrails

Best of all, you can take a walk on the bridge! A visit to the magical Pomona Natural Bridge will invoke a sense of wonder in all who visit.

Megan Mckee Canham/AllTrails

 

Christine Arason/Google

Amy Wright/AllTrails

Evan Artinger/AllTrails

Carrie Blaine/AllTrails

Megan Mckee Canham/AllTrails

Have you seen the incredible Pomona Natural Bridge in the Shawnee National Forest yet? If you have, what did you think? Let us know in the comments. For more information and to plan your visit, head to the webpage for Pomona Natural Bridge.

To see more magical places around the state, take our Illinois Fairytale Road Trip!

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Address: Natural Bridge Road, Natural Bridge Rd, Pomona, IL 62975, USA