Natural Bridge

Olympic Byway, State Rt. 3, in Jefferson County

Hamlet of Natural Bridge near Watertown, Fort Drum and Lake Ontario.

The natural bridge caverns in this region first attracted, Joseph Bonaparte, King of Spain, who purchased here land in 1818. Bonaparte had a frame mansion constructed over the natural caverns that, and according to local legend, provided an escape route via a tunnel if needed.

The small hamlet serves as a gateway to the Adirondacks today. It's a good place to stop to chat with local artisans located along Route 3, browse and shop for folk art and crafts that reflect the way of life special to this area, and experience the cultural flavor of the community.

The 170-mile Olympic Scenic Byway route starts near Lake Champlain at the village of Keeseville in the east, moves through the heart of the Adirondack Mountains, and ends near Lake Ontario at Sackets Harbor in the west. As you travel this byway, you’ll experience some of New York State’s most historic and scenic waterways. In the towns, villages, and hamlets along the way, learn about the determination of early settlers to make the most of the natural resources in this often-challenging environment.

Whether you're an armchair sports fan, or have dreams of Olympic-style challenges, you'll find a wide variety of recreation opportunities in every season. Take time to enjoy local events and get to know the women and men who live, work, and take great pride in calling the distinctive Olympic Scenic Byway communities home.

• Jefferson County, 1000 Islands Area Information