Posted in Iowa
April 17, 2018
The Beautiful Bridge Hike In Iowa That Will Completely Mesmerize You
Iowa’s winters are notoriously long, and by the time spring starts to show up, Iowans are ready to get outside. If you’re looking for an easy bike ride or hike to kick off the season, you’ve got to check out the High Trestle Trail, between Woodward and Madrid. The bridge that crosses the Des Moines River is absolutely stunning, and one of the most amazing footbridges in the world.
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You can hike each section (most of it is paved) to see beautiful views of the Des Moines River valley. It's common to spot wildlife as you walk!
Most Iowans who come to hike this trail, though, come for the 5.6 mile point-to-point between Woodward and Madrid.For trailheads and directions, click here
Most Iowans who come to hike this trail, though, come for the 5.6 mile point-to-point between Woodward and Madrid.For trailheads and directions, click here



The bridge was completed and opened in 2011. The bridge concept was created by Iowa's own RDG Dahlquist Art Studios, and Shuck-Briston provided the engineers to make the vision come to life. The trail bridge was designed to be reminiscent of the view through a mine shaft, as it was built near mine shafts that were worked by Italian immigrants and other locals

The enormous bridge is stands 13-stories high and is nearly half a mile long, so you'll have plenty of space to catch an uninterrupted view.

The bright blue lighting makes walking through the bridge during the evening hours a truly magical experience.


Treat yourself to lunch or dinner at the Town and Country Cafe, and then enjoy ice cream from the old fashioned soda fountain before heading back home.
The High Trestle Trail Bridge was named one of the Eight Amazing Footbridges of the World by BBC, and has become a true Iowa landmark.
If you’re looking for more of the most interesting hikes in Iowa, check out 8 Low-Key Hikes In Iowa With Amazing Payoffs and get out and about in the Hawkeye State!