Posted in Iowa Attractions, Sights & Landmarks July 11, 2021 by

This Iowa Bridge Is the Only One Like It in America And It Will Amaze You

In 2015, the BBC designated this unique bridge in Iowa as one of the eight most amazing footbridges on the planet. It’s the only one on their list in the United States, and we’re lucky enough to have it right in our own backyard.

Stretching over the Des Moines River between Madrid and Woodward, Iowa’s amazing High Trestle Trail Bridge is a tribute to our railroad and coal mining heritage.
Jason Mrachina/Flickr
The bridge rises 13 stories above the Des Moines River Valley.
Phil Roeder/Flickr
It’s situated near mining shafts worked by settlers who lived nearby, including many Italian immigrants.
The history of the region is reflected in the design. Can you tell what inspired this unique bridge in Iowa?
Phil Roeder/Flickr
Dark bands in the bridge’s towers represent coal veins and the steel framework is tilted in a representation of a mine shaft.
Originally built in the 1970s, this bridge carried rail traffic until the early 2000s.
Phil Roeder/Flickr
The steel I-beams from that bridge were repurposed for a newer Union Pacific bridge in Boone. The original piers still support the bridge, and the new deck is for bicycle and pedestrian use.
A grant from Vision Iowa helped fund the bridge's updated design and reconstruction.
Carol VanHook/Flickr
The design is by Shuck-Britson, Inc. and the artwork is from RDG Dahlquist Art Studio.
The re-designed and updated bridge was unveiled during a grand opening in the spring of 2011.
Brian Crawford/Flickr
The Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation says that about 3,000 people enjoy the trail and bridge each week.
This ½-mile bridge offers six lookout points and special blue lighting that stays on until midnight.
Carol VanHook/Flickr
The lighting means that any time of day or night, it’s a beautiful and unique place to go for a run, take a leisurely walk, or ride a bike.
Tony Webster/Flickr
The High Trestle Trail is between two 100-mile trail loops close to Des Moines.
Tony Webster/Flickr
The western loop includes the Raccoon River Valley Trail, and the Clive Greenbelt Trail. The eastern loop includes the Gay Lea Wilson Trail, the Heart of Iowa Nature Trail, and the Chichaqua Valley Trail. You'll often find cyclists coming through Madrid that have been pedaling for hours!
Motor vehicles are strictly prohibited here.
regan76/Flickr
The only exceptions are emergency vehicles and wheelchairs or mobility devices.

Have you been to Iowa’s amazing art bridge? What is your opinion of it? For more unique attractions in Iowa and must-see places in the Hawkeye State, read The Ultimate Iowa Hidden Gem Road Trip Will Take You To 10 Incredible Little-Known Spots In The State.

 

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Address: High Trestle Trail Bridge, 2335 Qf Ln, Madrid, IA 50156, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center

Unique Bridge In Iowa

July 16, 2021
Kim Magaraci

Where can I find unique architecture in Iowa?
There is fascinating architecture scattered throughout the Hawkeye State. The town that takes the cake for the most interesting architecture is Ida Grove, where you'll find castles scattered about town! An eccentric businessman built them, and now they define the town. Another interesting spot is Elk Horn, where you'll find an authentic Danish windmill right in the middle of town. Pella features some dutch architecture, too! There are a dozen Frank Lloyd Wright houses in Iowa, and many are open to the public. You can learn more about these landmark homes and buildings right here.

Are there any must-see unique attractions in Iowa?
Some of the most unique attractions in Iowa that are man-made include the Pappajohn Sculpture Park in Des Moines, the Julien Dubuque Monument in Dubuque, and the Jesse James Train Robbery Site. Some natural wonders that have become unique attractions in Iowa include the Loess Hills, the bluffs of the Upper Iowa River, and Maquoketa Caves. One must-see unique spot that's a bit of both is Effigy Mounds National Monument, where indigenous people built burial mounds into the earth, and you can walk about and see these sacred grounds in person.