Did you know that hidden deep in the overgrown Iowa woods is a swinging bridge built a hundred years ago? Not many people do know about the existence of this historic structure. Yet exist it does, with a legend to boot. It’s the Lovers Leap Bridge in Columbus Junction, Iowa.

Tucked away in an isolated area of Louisa County, Iowa is a deep ravine.
Linda H / Tripadvisor
And crossing this jagged cut into the earth is an old bridge built in 1922 that spans 262 feet in length.
Sara H / Tripadvisor
It's a swinging bridge, constructed of wood slats and steel cables.
hoogo / Tripadvisor
Visitors to the site can still walk across this narrow path through the air... if they dare!
Wendi S / Tripadvisor

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It's free to cross, but not a good fit for anyone who doesn't like heights.
kgilbert78/Tripadvisor
Not only does the bridge itself have a history dating back over a hundred years, but so does the ravine, dating long before that.
IA_Hawks / Tripadvisor
Legend tells of a lovesick Native American maiden who leaped to her death here in this gorge, thus earning the bridge its nickname of "Lovers Leap."
How much truth there is to this tale is uncertain, although at least two folks have fallen from this spot when an earlier incarnation of this bridge collapsed while they were crossing it!
kgilbert78/Tripadvisor
Fortunately, neither was hurt, and nothing of the sort has happened since.
In fact, the bridge was refurbished and strengthened in the 1950s to keep it safe for crossers, and it's still monitored for stability to this day.
Linda H / Tripadvisor

To learn more about the Lovers Leap Swinging Bridge in Columbus Junction, Iowa, visit Tripadvisor here. Next time you’re passing through the southeastern quadrant of Iowa, check to see if you’re close enough to Columbus Junction to merit a stop at this hidden historic gem. If you love bridges, Iowa’s the place for you! Try a bridge tour of some of our prettiest covered bridges as well.

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Swinging Bridge Park, 303 Oak St, Columbus Junction, IA 52738, USA