One of only three natural bridges in the world that has water flowing under it. Time and water eroded a hole in the rock allowing the stream now known as LaPrele Creek to flow through it.
The bridge is part of the Casper Sandstone Formation which was laid down during the Pennsylvanian Age more than 280 million years ago. Today it is part of the Converse County Park and Recreation system and is open from April through October.
One can only assume that someone somehow ruined this for everyone who owns a pet. It's a shame that people don't control their animals. This is a really beautiful park for picnicing and outdoor gatherings.
The park and bridge is surrounded by an amphitheater of red sand stone walls. There are some narrow paths leading up the rock, however, we old folks are not limber enough to even attempt to go up. Bill tried one path and came back rather quickly and told me to just "forget it".
You can see this is part of the Oregon Trail too.
The bridge arch above the water is 50 feet high and 100 feet long.
Indian lore tells of the time that an Indian brave was struck by lightning near the bridge and was killed instantly. His people believed that an evil spirit, "King of Beasts," lived beneath the bridge and had swallowed the life of this warrior. From then on, the Indians would not go near the bridge. It became a sanctuary for people fleeing the Indians. If they could make it to the bridge, they would be safe because the Indians wouldn't follow for fear of the evil spirit.
Here's Bill adjusting his camera to try to get a better show of the canyon.
It's a very peaceful, serene park. We were here during a weekday so I'm not sure how peaceful it is on the weekends. As you can see from the picture below there is a huge barbeque pit and tables, etc. for large gatherings and a very nice playground area for the kids.
Of course, Jo is always on the lookout for critters. Here's a very cooperative little cottontail bunny who was more than willing to oblige for a Kodak moment. I didn't even have to bribe him with a carrot, etc.
This is the road going back down into the valley from the park. Very picturesque ride/drive.
As we were nearing the highway we came across this small herd of buffalo.
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