Natural Bridge State Park Massachussets
Massachusetts' Marble Natural Bridge
Massachusetts Natural Bridge
Massachusetts' natural bridge, located in the northern Berkshires, is one of the unique places in the US. The the bridge is the only natural white marble bridge in North America. The site was a private tourist attraction from 1950 to 1983. Natural Bridge became a Massachusetts state park in 1985, to preserve its unique geologic features.
Gorge cut by Hudson Brook
Marble Dam at Natural Bridge State Park
The beauty of the spot is due to the 60 feet deep gorge that Hudson Brook cut through the marble as it wonders through the area covered by the state park. The various minerals and the algae that covers some of the rocks provide a wonderful contrast to the white of the marble. It is one of the most interesting spots we've visited in our travels. The cuts in the provide an abstract painting look to the place.
Gorge at Natural Bridge State Park
The park is also home to the only man made white marble dam in North America. The dam blocks Hudson Brook and provided power for the commercial quarry and mill that opperated here from 1810 to 1947. The quarry produced coarse-grained white marble used in local buildings and cemeteries. All signs of the mill are now gone.
The park is near North Adams, Massachussets and is located off of Massachussets route 8. Complete directions can be found on the park's website.
Hudson Brook