Over 500,000 immigrants/travelers passed through here to get to their destinations in search of a new life in the mid-1800’s, American history is still alive and well today, tucked away the heart of Wyoming.
Located near Sweet Water, Wyoming, this rare gem is a delight to see and worth traversing the prairies to see it. Thankfully, we don’t have to travel by Schooner or horses anymore–unless your heart so desires!
The placards along the way mark and memoralize the history of Independence Rock, a marker for the Oregon and Mormon trails to traverse the vast and ardous prairies of the wild west. The history, while relatively young by world standards, is a true establishment of American History and how the west was won over the last 2 centuries.
150 years in the making of historyIt’s an archeological site now but the inscriptions of travelers names can still be seenIndependance Rock, Wyoming The “head” of the rock looks like a sleeping dragon. Sweetwater, Wyoming and Independence Rock, carved in stone Independance Rock looks like a sleeping Trex, a landmark passage amongst the Oregon and Mormon Trail
The pioneers are making their mark again along the Oregon Trail here. It is just outside of Jackolope City, Wyoming. The trail is along the I-25, so it’s easily accessible now!
Looming gently over LaPrele Creek, Ayres Natural Bridge provides beautiful splendor amongst the red rocks of Converse County.
According to the tourist site,is only one of three natural bridges “LaPrele Creek flows beneath the rock formation. It creates one of only three rock archways in the nation that span water.” I feel so fortunate and blessed that I got to see one of them!
While driving up to the location, it’s clearly posted that any animal, leashed or not, is not welcome onsite. Tickets with fines will be issued for those bringing in an animal with them. So please, remember to leave Fido and kitty at home.
The drive is an easy method, with wide open colorful views and spectacular scenery. While most of the path to get there is unpaved, it’s still manageable-just take your time!
The area also hosted a small flock of wild turkey.That is the bird, not the alcoholic beverage, just for clarity.
Bring a picnic basket or other goodies. It is an ideal way to spend a lovely afternoon here at Ayres natural bridge and park. Do you want to enjoy it longer? Camping is also available here. I am not sure if I would want to brave the Wyoming chill in the winter for camping. I would consider it if I were in a recreational camper toy. Nonetheless, I am a princess who likes the amenities, and I might not even brave it then.
Watch this little youtube video I made of the area. I hope you thoroughly enjoy it!
La Prele CreekAyres Natural Bridge LaPrele Creek Runs wild under the bridgeBluffs along the way Ayres Bridge Park-Perfect location to enjoy a picnic and moreRed Rocks at AyresSpectuculars views at Ayres Enjoying the LaPrele Creek and Red Rocks, Glenrock, Wyoming
