Gateway of India | Mumbai

Information

Landmark: Gateway of India
City: Mumbai
Country: India
Continent: Asia

Gateway of India, Mumbai, India, Asia

Ayres Natural Bridge is a geological formation located in Converse County, Wyoming, approximately 30 miles west of Douglas.

Visual Characteristics

The bridge is a natural arch formed from sandstone. It spans approximately 100 feet and rises about 30 feet above La Bonte Creek. The sandstone exhibits a reddish-brown hue, with visible stratification indicating its geological history. Vegetation around the creek consists of grasses and scattered cottonwood trees.

Location & Access Logistics

Access to Ayres Natural Bridge is via Wyoming Highway 94 (WYO 94). The turnoff is marked and leads to a gravel road. The bridge is situated approximately 1.5 miles from the highway. Parking is available at a designated lot adjacent to the bridge. No public transportation services operate to this location.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Ayres Natural Bridge is a sandstone arch formed by the erosive action of La Bonte Creek over an extended geological period. The specific age of the formation is estimated to be several million years old. It was designated a National Natural Landmark in 1967.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe the natural arch formation. Walking trails are present around the creek bed. Photography of the geological structure is a primary activity. Picnicking is permitted in designated areas.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at the site. Shaded picnic tables are provided. Cell phone signal is generally unreliable at this remote location. No food vendors are present on-site; visitors should bring their own provisions.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, early morning or late afternoon light provides optimal illumination of the sandstone. The best months for visiting are typically May through October, avoiding potential winter road closures and extreme cold. Water levels in La Bonte Creek are generally higher in spring and early summer.

Facts & Legends

Local lore suggests that the bridge was once used by Native American tribes for crossing La Bonte Creek. A verified historical detail is that the area was a popular stopping point for travelers on the Oregon Trail, though the bridge itself predates this era.