The United States has some of the most glorious natural formations in the world, and some of those are the bridges and arches formed over millions of years by the forces of water, wind, and the earth’s uplift. CNN takes us to 15 of the world’s best, many of which are right here in the lower 48 in Nevada, Wyoming, Utah, California, and Virginia.

But just what is the difference between and arch and a bridge?  “The Natural Arch and Bridge Society, whose Indiana Jones-like members go hunting for these rock formations around the world, makes this distinction: A natural arch is made of rock, with a hole formed by natural forces, they say. A natural bridge is a type of arch, where water is the natural force making the hole.”

And yes, all the erosion that went into forming these natural wonders will someday result in their destruction.  But right now just go and enjoy them.

Photo: Wikimedia