In an effort to safeguard the public from the cliff’s edge while not obstructing the splendid view of the surrounding countryside, park authorities constructed short stone walls. Since its establishment as an official outlook, Lovers’ Leap has presented a genuine safety concern. It is most likely a byproduct of late-Victorian romanticism and efforts to promote one of Waco’s natural wonders to outsiders. While stirring, no historical basis exists for the tale.
The bodies of the two, still holding tightly onto one another, found a final resting place on the banks of the river close to the site of their first meeting. Cornered at the edge of a steep cliff above the Bosque, Wah-Wah-Tee and her brave chose to embrace one another and leap into the swollen river below rather than face a lifetime apart. The two hoped to elope but were thwarted in their effort to run away quietly at night by Wah-Wah-Tee’s father and brothers who objected to the union. As recounted by Decca Lamar West in her popular 1912 booklet The Legend of Lovers’ Leap, Waco Indian maiden Wah-Wah-Tee secretly accepted a marriage proposal from a handsome Apache brave despite the enmity between their tribes. On September 3, 1920, the Cameron family acquired the remaining 191 acres between Cameron Park and Lover’s Leap, thereby ensuring the bluff would remain a central attraction in one of Texas’ largest municipal parks.Īssociated with the cliff is a folktale involving two star-crossed Native American lovers. The Camerons originally leased the land to the federal government with the understanding that when Camp MacArthur troops no longer needed it as a recreation space, it would be added to Cameron Park. Though it had been the site of many picnics and romantic excursions, Lovers’ Leap had yet to receive formal designation as a park site. On June 28, 1917, the Cameron family purchased a tract of sixty acres featuring the cliff area known as Lovers’ Leap. Descend from Natural Bridge by selecting another route such as the Natural Bridge via Balance Rock and the Original Trail.A picturesque limestone bluff situated high above the Bosque River, Lovers’ Leap is as dangerous as it is beautiful.
Return to Natural Bridge on Trail #9 Laurel Ridge Trail, cross back and find Trail #1 Original Trail descending on the right side of Natural Bridge.About 0.25 miles after beginning the trail you will pass Lookout Point on your right, take a short break here and enjoy the view. Follow Trail #9 Laurel Ridge Trail to the end of the trail at Lover’s Leap.From the top of Natural Bridge cross to the side with the chairlift (across from the pagoda).Select a route such as the Natural Bridge via Balance Rock and the Original Trail and arrive on top of Natural Bridge.
Park in Hemlock Lodge Parking Area or at the base of the Skylift depending on which trail you have chosen to take to the top of Natural Bridge.Turn Right into Natural Bridge State Resort Park and follow signs to Hemlock Lodge (0.2 miles).From rest area at exit #33 off of the Mountain State Parkway Turn right onto KY-11, and go to the entrance to Natural Bridge State Resort Park (2.4 miles).Hemlock Lodge in the Natural Bridge State Resort Park has information on the state park and complimentary trail maps and guides for Natural Bridge.ĪMOUNT OF TIME NEEDED: Allow less than a half of a day (1-2 hours) to enjoy this hike. For up to date information either stop in the Ranger District Office, visit their website or telephone: (859) 745-3100. The USDA Forest Office is located in Winchester, Kentucky about an hour from Red River Gorge. RATING: Easy hike (approximately 1.5 miles total.)īEST TIME OF YEAR TO HIKE: Early spring when flowers are blooming or autumn when you can catch the fall colors.
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