Tuesday August 11, 2015

Went to Natural Bridge, which is a geological formation carved out by Cedar Creek, a small tributary of the James River.

The arch is 215 feet high.  Thomas Jefferson purchased 157 acres from King George III for 20 schillings in 1774 and the land included Natural Bridge.

Jefferson built a two-room log cabin, with one room reserved for guests, beginning its use as a retreat.

This Blue Heron kept following Dan as we walked along Cedar Creek!  Birds of a feather!

Since Jefferson, the site had several owners until May 12, 2014, when Governor Terry McAuliffe officially accepted the deed to Natural Bridge, transferring its ownership to the Commonwealth of Virginia. 

Stephen and Dan hiked the trail along Cedar Creek, past the Native American village to the small waterfall at the end of the trail.  (Walter sat on the creek wall talking to visitors!)