When thousands of migrants made their way through Wyoming on the Oregon, California and Mormon Trails, they passed through several natural wonders that soon became landmarks and the first “roadside attractions” around. These landmarks included Independence Rock, Fossil Butte, and the often overlooked Ayres Natural Bridge. The Ayres National Bridge is located in Converse County between Glenrock and Douglas, and it’s worth a visit to see this oddity for yourself.

Ayres Natural Bridge was formed over millions of years, as the LaPrele Creek wore away at the rocks on the riverbank.
Flickr/kynan tait
Years of erosion and weathering created a natural opening, which formed a 30-foot high and 50-foot wide arch that is now known as the Ayres Natural Bridge.
Long before immigrants noticed the bridge and wrote in their journals about this roadside stop, this natural bridge in Wyoming had some folklore of its own.
By Haberstr - Own work, CC0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=7499088
In local tribal culture, the bridge is considered an unlucky spot with dark energy. When a young scout was struck by lightning on a hunting trip, the fears were confirmed, and many still believe this to be a dark and evil place.
This Natural Bridge in Wyoming is just a mile off of the Oregon Trail wagon paths, and it became a safe spot for migrants to rest.
Flickr/Sandy Weaver
Many of the local tribes did not appreciate people traveling through their land, stealing their resources, and threatening their lives. The settlers soon realized the bridge was a relatively safe spot for them.
Today, you can visit this historic natural landmark and see the geologic oddity up close.
Flickr/Sandy Weaver
Though it is not the only natural bridge in Wyoming, the Ayres Natural Bridge is one of the Cowboy State's most famous natural landmarks.

Related Stories

Bondurant, The Snowiest, Coldest Town In Wyoming, Is A Chilly Wonderland You'll Want To Visit

Bondurant, The Snowiest, Coldest Town In Wyoming, Is A Chilly Wonderland You'll Want To Visit

 Mammoth Chapel Is A Pretty Place Of Worship In Wyoming

Mammoth Chapel Is A Pretty Place Of Worship In Wyoming

 8 Roadside Attractions And Quirky Sights That Every Wyomingite Should Add To Their Bucket List

8 Roadside Attractions And Quirky Sights That Every Wyomingite Should Add To Their Bucket List
The Bridge can be found in a small park where families and adventurers gather for hiking, history, and picnics.
Flickr/Jim Bowen
To get to this natural Wyoming treasure, take Exit 151 south of Interstate 25.
There is no admission fee to the park, and a small campground makes it an ideal resting spot for many who are traveling through the state.
Flickr/kynan tait
It's fun to feel like a part of history when you also stop and stay at the bridge.
If you're steady on your feet, you can climb to the top of the bridge.
By Wusel007 - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=11344969
The view is spectacular! You can see for miles in every direction.
Make plans to visit the Ayres Natural Bridge and you'll discover a Wyoming natural wonder that's sure to impress anyone interested in history and nature.
Flickr/Jason Riedy

If you’re interested in learning more about natural landmarks in Wyoming, read 6 Amazing Natural Wonders Hiding In Plain Sight In Wyoming — No Hiking Required

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

natural bridge in wyoming

Kim Magaraci | May 27, 2020

Does Wyoming have any natural wonders?

Wyoming is full of natural wonders! Beyond our famous national parks, you can find the world's largest hot springs in Thermopolis, odd rock outcroppings at the Vedauwoo, and the otherwordly Devils Tower here in Wyoming.

What are the most beautiful places in Wyoming?

Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park, Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, and Shoshone National Forest are some of the most beautiful places in the world. We're lucky to have them all so close to us here in the Cowboy State.

Where should I go to take photos of Wyoming?

Wyoming is full of gorgeous national parks and historic areas that make for incredible portrait backdrops and subjects for photographers. If you're looking for some of the best photo spots in Wyoming, check out our Wyoming Nature Lovers' Facebook group, where you'll find plenty of inspiration.

Related Articles

Explore Wyoming

Featured Addresses
Ayres Natural Bridge Park, 208 Natural Bridge Rd, Douglas, WY 82633, USA