On the east side of RMNP is Horseshoe Park, a huge meadow divided by the meandering Fall River.  It is a favorite gathering place for elk.

As a slow-flowing river 'meanders' it makes huge 'S' curves.  In times of heavy flow, the river can speed up and create ox-bows when the river jumps across a loop.  The resulting pools form perfect 'watering holes' and attract elk and (when the elk aren't using them) other forms of wildlife.