Tucked away in the rolling hills of Jackson County, hidden among the towering trees of the Shawnee National Forest, sits one of the region’s most fascinating natural wonders—the Pomona Natural Bridge. Spanning 90 feet across a rocky ravine, this breathtaking rock formation is the second-largest natural bridge in Illinois. But beyond its stunning scenery, the bridge carries a rich history dating back to the Great Depression, when it was a hub of conservation efforts that shaped the very forest we know today.
Located just south of Murphysboro, this little-known gem is perfect for anyone looking to soak in some serious natural beauty. A short and sweet 0.35-mile loop trail leads visitors through a narrow canyon filled with seasonal waterfalls, caves, and lush greenery. You’ll even get to walk across the bridge itself, experiencing firsthand the forces of nature that have shaped this landscape over thousands of years.
While the Pomona Natural Bridge Picnic Area is quiet and peaceful today, it was once the heart of the western expansion of the Shawnee National Forest. In the 1930s, young men from the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC)built the trail system, picnic areas, and reforested much of the farmland that had been left in ruins after years of overuse. These efforts helped turn the Shawnee National Forest into the thriving ecosystem we see today.
Once you hit the main loop, you’ve got options:
➡️ Take the left path for an easier, family-friendly stroll. You’ll cross two small wooden bridges over cascading streams that flow directly beneath the natural bridge itself.
➡️ Take the right path for a little adventure. This route brings you to a sheer cliff overlook with incredible views of the bridge from above. It’s the perfect spot to sit, take it all in, and listen to the trickling waterfalls below.
If you visit after a good rain, the canyon transforms into a waterfall lover’s dream, with several small cascades adding to the peaceful, otherworldly vibe of the area.
While the natural bridge is the star of the show, history lovers will enjoy knowing that this area played a key role in wildlife conservation. In the early 1900s, deer and turkey populations had been nearly wiped out in Illinois. Just a few miles from here, CCC workers at Rattlesnake Ferry helped protect and reintroduce wild turkeys back into the region—a success story that means today, sightings of these birds are common in the Shawnee!
Another fun historical tidbit? Back in the 1930s, a narrow-gauge railway ran from Murphysboro to Pomona, making special Sunday stops at the Pomona Natural Bridge and nearby Salt Peter Cave (now Shawnee Amphitheater) for visitors to explore.
For those brave enough to walk across the arch, an 8-foot-wide path winds its way over the top of the bridge, surrounded by ferns, mosses, and towering trees. At 30 feet high, the view is absolutely worth it—but take your time, as the stone can be slippery when wet.
Following the trail down the stone staircase, you’ll get a completely different perspective of the bridge from below. A small spring-fed waterfall continues to carve its way through the rock, proving that this landscape is ever-changing. Over thousands of years, this very process transformed what was once a large cave overhang into the bridge we see today. And in another hundred thousand years? The nearby caves and cliffs will likely form new arches, carrying on nature’s work long after we’re gone.
📍 Pomona Natural Bridge Trail | 0.35-mile loop
⏳ Time to Complete: ~30-45 minutes
🧺 Picnic Area Available (No Other Services) – Pack in, pack out!
🚗 Location: Off Pomona Road, west of Hwy 127
This hidden gem is perfect for a quick Jackson County day trip. So, if you’re looking for a short hike with big views, a bit of history, and a touch of adventure, the Pomona Natural Bridge is calling your name. Lace up your hiking boots, grab your camera, and step into the past—this is one sight you don’t want to miss.
