The Beautiful Bridge Hike In Iowa That Will Completely Mesmerize You
By Kim Magaraci
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Published April 17, 2018
If you’re looking for an easy bike ride or hike, 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.
The entire trail route is 25 miles long, and spans from Woodward to Ankeny.
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 of the trail is paved, and it's an easy bike ride for anyone who can pedal. Hikers will enjoy the long walk on a nice warm day, too.
Close to Madrid, you'll find the High Trestle Trail Bridge.
This incredible footbridge is a true engineering marvel.
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
Take your time crossing the bridge and enjoy the scenic views of the Des Moine River!
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.
Perhaps the best feature of the High Trestle Trail Bridge is the lighting that comes on at dusk, and stays on until midnight.
The bright blue lighting makes walking through the bridge during the evening hours a truly magical experience.
The sight of the bridge all lit up against the darkness of rural Iowa is breathtaking.
After your hike or bike ride, spend some time in Madrid!
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!
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