The latest development at the Ridgedale, Mo., property is being built to highlight The Cathedral of Nature, a geologic formation excavated over the last three years after a sinkhole collapse under Top of the Rock’s driving range. The lodge will feature more than 100 rooms, and construction is slated to begin this summer.
Bass Pro Shops founder Johnny Morris has announced plans for Top of the Rock Lodge, a new signature wilderness resort accommodation at Big Cedar Lodge Resort in Ridgedale, Mo.
C&RB featured the resort in its October 2014 cover story.
The soaring timber-and-stone-clad structure will sit directly on the edge of a newly discovered geologic wonder Morris calls, “The Cathedral of Nature,” inviting guests to marvel at dramatic 200-foot canyons and limestone formations from a number of mesmerizing vantage points.
“Our guests consistently tell us visiting Top of the Rock is one the best parts of their Big Cedar Lodge experience. This is a very special place and we couldn’t be more excited to further immerse people in the spectacular natural beauty and genuine Ozarks hospitality found here,” said Morris. “Whether you want to play world-class golf, discover the rich history of the Ozarks or just enjoy bonding time with beloved friends and family in a beautiful setting, Top of the Rock Lodge will be the ultimate destination for anyone looking to escape life’s pressures and slow down to absorb nature’s true wonders.”
Offering views of Table Rock Lake, Top of the Rock is already home to world-class golf, nature-based attractions, dining and entertainment. More than 100 rooms will feature luxury accommodations with handcrafted finishes and layouts designed to take advantage of the views, with every room offering a stone fireplace and southern exposure directly overlooking The Cathedral of Nature and Table Rock Lake. In keeping with the spirit of the Ozarks Heritage Preserve, each detail will be a tribute to the natural beauty, rich history and strong craftsmanship found in the Ozarks region.
The grand living room features dueling fireplaces, warm rustic features and a variety of guest amenities. A towering 30-foot window opens onto a cantilevered perch that stretches out over the cliff’s edge, inviting guests to gaze down at the natural wonders below.
The Cathedral of Nature has been dramatically unveiling itself for the past three years following a small sinkhole collapse under Top of the Rock’s Arnold Palmer-designed driving range. The aftermath revealed towering geological formations formed more than 300 million years ago and inspired Morris, a lifelong cave enthusiast, to excavate the site in the hopes of discovering a vast system of caverns hidden below. Now 200 feet below the surface, crews have removed 70,000 truckloads of material revealing more of the massive limestone formations.
Guests staying at Top of the Rock Lodge will come in direct contact with the geologic wonder. In addition to multiple cantilevered overlooks and balconies offering direct views, an infinity pool seemingly floating above the behemoth-sized canyons below will bring guests right to the ragged edge and beyond. Additional amenities include an onsite spa, fitness center, meeting space and more. A handcrafted covered wooden bridge will connect guests to Top of the Rock Ozarks Heritage Preserve including its variety of dining offerings and nature-based attractions.
Construction is slated to start this summer with grand opening dates and additional details will be announced in the months to come.
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