I believe this Natural Bridges Viewpoint is the most popular stop along the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor drive.
It's located right off Oregon Highway 101 and can't be missed. There are signs for it and plenty of parked cars to grab your attention.
Natural Bridges Viewpoint showcases two sea arches with blow through holes set away in a distant backdrop. That's the best way I can describe things while writing this at the moment. That's all you may ask? Yeah, pretty much. From my POV...the lookout wasn't so impressive. Let me at least explain my case, lol...
First off, from the parking lot, it's a quick 5 minute walk to the viewpoint. Once there, you can see the two natural bridges in the distance, but if you're using your phone for photography, you may really have to zoom in to connect with the surroundings.
Selfie picture taking is a waste of time and not even necessary. Again, the bridges are set too far away in the background to photograph them while including your faces. Yet still, people took selfies anyways from the viewpoint.
Also, people were asking to take photos of each other and once again, it's still disappointing. The bridges are so far down below on a steep decline and with a waste high protective guard railing...any photos of just you and your loved ones and the faraway bridges are simply not attainable. If you had a ladder for the viewpoint, lol, then you may be able to get the pics you want.
I will say...if you're just admiring the sceneries from the viewpoint, the waters surrounding the Natural Bridge offered colorful green tones, especially with the sun shining brightly.
Walking over to the observation point, hanging out for a few moments and appreciating the setting is what coming here is about.
But wait...here's where the story can change...
Most people (again, in my opinion) weren't satisfied just standing at the lookout. Picture taking was difficult. Most folks wanted more out of the experience. And you can do more, but it's at your own risk...
I noticed not only is there an unmaintained hiking trail path through the forest, but while at the viewpoint, there were people standing on top of the Natural Bridge! Wow! I thought in my head...that's very dangerous. These adventurous folks were walking across the bridge and that took guts. You could just tell how thin and narrow the walkway was. One wrong step and it could be game over! But this is just my perspective. I have a fear of heights. I know my limits. I can only go so far. But, if you can make it to the bridge, I would think the photography would be more rewarding. If you're brave enough, it can be achieved.
I attempted the hike to see how far I could venture. I pondered...maybe there would be better glances of the wondrous Oregon coast if I got closer? My curiosity definitely set in for better opportunities.
Starting off on the trail was fine but maybe 1/3rd of a mile along, the path slowly dissipated. Next, you blend in with the forest. It's pretty confusing by which way to turn. There are no signs anywhere. Then you're really hiking on your own to sort of fend for yourself. It's frustrating by the unknown. It was at this moment when I returned back to the viewpoint and the parking lot.
In the end, Natural Bridges Viewpoint was mediocre. I wanted more out of it. I expected better. But along this entire Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor, there were so many other frequent roadside stops within minutes of each other that I quickly tossed aside any sour feelings I had about visiting here and continued on my journey. read more