Ayrs Natural Bridge Formation in Wyoming

The power and authority of water can be seen in nature every day, and one of my favorite places to do just that is Ayres Natural Bridge State Park in Wyoming.  The 150-acre park gets its name from the rock formal – Ayres Natural Bridge.

The bridge is the result of the Bridge Creek wearing away a rock wall.  The erosion created an arched opening, and the creek eventually shifted course through the opening.  This arch is one of Wyoming’s oldest tourist attractions, first visited by settlers traveling west on the Oregon Trail. 

Today, the arch is 30 feet high and 50 foot wide, the creek is now called LaPrele Creek, and the Arch is known as Ayres Natural Bridge.

Ayres State Park offers picnicking and campground and is free to visit.  It is open April – September, 8 am – 8 pm.  Only registered campers are permitted overnight.

I think and June and early July are great times to visit.  The weather is warm, but not oppressive, usually in the mid to high 70’s.  If you like your state parks a little warmer wait till deeper in the summer.

Photo credit:  flickr