The earthly Rainbow Bridge is an American national monument (proclaimed in 1910) located in Southern Utah at the base of Navajo Mountain, just North of the Arizona border. A natural formation of salmon-pink sandstone, it resembles the arc of a rainbow and is the largest natural bridge in the world. A former branch of the Colorado River created the Rainbow Bridge through erosion, first by carving the Bridge Canyon and then enlarging a hole which, over time, became the Bridge itself.

Known as "Nonnezoshi" (which means "rainbow turned to stone") to the Navajo people who dwell in that region, the tribe members have been aware of the Bridge for many years, but it only became well-known after 1909, when local guides led a group of white explorers to the area. Rainbow Bridge is considered by the Indians to be a sacred place and special prayers are offered before passing beneath the monument. Failure to do so is believed to bring misfortune. Tourists may hike to the Bridge only with the permission of the Navajo Nation, which owns the surrounding land. In deference to the tribal elders, it is requested that all visitors refrain from walking upon the hallowed ground under Rainbow Bridge.

Perhaps it is from this notion of such a sacred area that the heavenly Rainbow Bridge was created, although some believe it may have been inspired by an ancient Norse legend. The story of this joyful place, where all animals are transported after their time on earth is done, has been recounted for a long time. It is not exactly known who first spun the tale and there are several variations...some of them available in print.

All have a similar beautiful and comforting theme.

There is a bridge connecting Heaven and Earth. It is called the Rainbow Bridge because of its many colors. Just this side of Rainbow Bridge is a special land.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills and valleys with lush green grass for all of our special friends, so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food and water and sunshine, and our friends are warn and comfortable. All the animals who have been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again...just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by.

The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing. They miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. The bright eyes are intent, the nose twitches and the eager body quivers. Suddenly, this one breaks away from the group, flying over the green grass, legs carrying them faster and faster.

YOU have been spotted and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, NEVER to be parted again! The happy kisses rain upon your face. Your hands again caress the beloved head and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet...so long gone from your life, but never absent from your heart.

Then, you cross the Rainbow Bridge together...

RainBow Bridge Return...And Return Again...
I Awake...Across The RainBow Bridge
North Of RainBow Bridge
Native American Legend
RainBow Bridge: Sequel
Rescue RainBow Bridge
All Pets Go To Heaven
Norse Legend
The Lonely

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