Ayres Natural Bridge State Park

From Freepedia

Ayres Natural Bridge State Park is a state park of Wyoming in the United States. It occupies 150 acres (0.6 km²) southeast of the town of Glenrock. The park's name is derived from the rock formation of the same name.

Over the course of millions of years, a bend in LaPrele Creek (originally known as Bridge Creek) wore away at a wall of solid rock, creating a natural opening. The creek eventually shifted course through the opening, forming a 30 foot (10 m) high and 50 foot (15 m) wide arch, today known as Ayres Natural Bridge. It is one of only three known natural bridges in the United States to be located over water.

Located about a mile (2 km) south of the Oregon Trail, the Natural Bridge was often visited by emigrants traveling west. It is considered one of Wyoming's first tourist attractions. In 1843, a pioneer described it as "a natural bridge of solid rock, over a rapid torrent, the arch being regular as tho' shaped by art."

Today, the park is free to visit. It is opened from May through September from 8am to 8pm. No pets are allowed in the park. There is a small campground in the park, as well as open picnic areas and covered tables.