The Bridges’ Resort opens in Wayne County, featuring rare natural wonder

A hidden natural wonder in rural Tennessee has emerged as the centerpiece of a new full-service resort drawing attention throughout the region.

The Bridges resort, located in Wayne County near Forty-Eight Creek, features what is believed to be the only double-span natural bridge in North America—and possibly the world. Closed to the public for nearly 70 years, the site recently reopened, allowing visitors to experience this rare geological formation firsthand.

Guests can learn about the area’s rich history through a plaque displayed at the Natural Bridge. The resort offers cabins, a restaurant serving locally sourced dishes with scenic water views, a gift shop showcasing products from nearby counties, and various outdoor activities. This development brings a significant economic boost to Wayne County, which is designated by the state as a “distressed” county due to high poverty and limited tax revenue.

The natural double bridge itself, formed by erosion that carved a large hole through a limestone ridge, stands as the resort’s breathtaking highlight. Additional attractions include a natural ice cave maintaining a year-round temperature of 58 degrees, a concert stage with a lawn, and access to Forty-Eight Creek for tubing and other water-based recreation.

The resort’s mission extends beyond tourism, focusing on supporting local communities in Lawrence, Wayne, and Lewis counties by providing visitors with a full range of amenities.

Developed by Stan and Winette Bevis, whose background in rural healthcare informs their vision, the project is deeply rooted in faith and a desire to share the region’s unique natural beauty.

The Bridges area also carries historical significance: frontier icon David Crockett reportedly delivered a political speech near the site, and the location served as a hideout for outlaws in the 19th century.

In addition to lodging and entertainment, the resort encourages guests to unplug from technology and reconnect with nature and one another, promoting an appreciation for the environment.

Reservations and day passes are available online at thebridgestn.com.