Highlight (Segment) • Bridge
High Trestle Trail Bridge
Cycling
5.0
(12)
The High Trestle Trail Bridge is an iconic pedestrian and bicycle bridge located in central Iowa, renowned for its striking design and impressive scale. Spanning the picturesque Des Moines River Valley between the towns of Madrid and Woodward, this engineering marvel stands 13 stories high, reaching approximately 130 feet, and stretches nearly half a mile across the landscape. It serves as a centerpiece of the 25-mile High Trestle Trail, connecting communities across Polk, Story, Boone, and Dallas counties with a paved, multi-use pathway. This unique structure is not just a crossing but a destination, celebrated for its artistic flair and historical homage to the region's coal mining past.
Visitors consistently praise the bridge for its breathtaking panoramic views of the Des Moines River Valley and its distinctive architectural features. The bridge's artistic design, featuring 41 steel "cribbings" that evoke the sensation of descending into a mine shaft, is a major draw. Many are particularly captivated by the bridge's transformation after sunset, when blue LED lights illuminate 23 of these steel frames, creating a mesmerizing "mine shaft illusion" that reflects in the river below. This spectacular light display, typically active from sunset until midnight, offers a truly unforgettable experience, earning the bridge international recognition as one of the world's most amazing footbridges.
Before visiting, it's helpful to know that the High Trestle Trail is a paved recreational path, making it suitable for a wide range of activities including cycling, walking, and even wheelchair access. The closest parking for the bridge is conveniently located approximately 0.75 miles away in Madrid, Iowa, providing easy access to the trailhead. While the bridge can be busy, especially on weekends and during peak seasons, its expansive length ensures there's ample space for everyone to enjoy the views and the unique atmosphere.
The High Trestle Trail Bridge is a year-round attraction, though the experience varies with the seasons. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities, while summer evenings are perfect for witnessing the famous light show. The bridge's illumination schedule runs from sunset until midnight between April and October, and until 9 p.m. from November through March, making it a magical destination after dark. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll, a scenic bike ride, or a unique evening outing, the High Trestle Trail Bridge provides an exceptional setting for family-friendly activities and outdoor adventure.
The High Trestle Trail offers numerous opportunities for exploration. Cyclists and walkers can enjoy the full 25-mile length of the trail, which connects to a broader network of hundreds of miles of trails throughout central Iowa. For those looking for a shorter experience, simply traversing the nearly half-mile bridge itself provides stunning vistas and a chance to appreciate its award-winning design. The trail's gentle grade and paved surface make it accessible for all skill levels, from casual walkers to avid cyclists.
Many visitors describe the experience of walking or cycling across the High Trestle Trail Bridge as surreal, especially when the blue lights create a "kaleidoscopic perspective" at night. The six overlooks along the bridge offer interpretive panels that delve into the area's rich cultural and natural history, providing fascinating insights into the Des Moines River Valley. It's a place where history, art, and nature converge, offering a memorable journey for everyone who crosses its path.
To discover the best trails near High Trestle Trail Bridge and plan your adventure, explore the many routes available on komoot. Whether you're interested in a short walk to admire the bridge's architecture, a longer cycling excursion along the High Trestle Trail, or connecting to other popular trails routes in central Iowa, komoot offers detailed maps and community-contributed tips to help you make the most of your visit.
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October 27, 2021
Cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near High Trestle Trail Bridge
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Details
Informations
Distance 794 m
Uphill 0 m
Downhill 10 m
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Thursday 7 May
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4°C
18 %
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Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to get to the High Trestle Trail Bridge?
The High Trestle Trail Bridge is located between Madrid and Woodward, Iowa. The most common access point is from Madrid, where parking is available approximately 0.75 miles from the bridge. From the parking area, you can walk or cycle directly onto the paved High Trestle Trail to reach the bridge.
Are there specific routes or popular trails associated with the High Trestle Trail Bridge?
The bridge is a central feature of the 25-mile High Trestle Trail, which runs from Ankeny to Woodward. Many visitors choose to cycle or walk the entire trail, or simply enjoy a shorter out-and-back trip across the bridge itself. The trail also connects to a broader network of hundreds of miles of trails throughout central Iowa, offering extensive opportunities for longer excursions.
What is the terrain and difficulty level of the High Trestle Trail?
The High Trestle Trail is a paved recreational trail with a gentle grade, making it suitable for all skill levels, from casual walkers to avid cyclists. There is no significant elevation gain, ensuring an accessible and enjoyable experience for most visitors.
Is the High Trestle Trail Bridge wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the High Trestle Trail Bridge and the surrounding trail are designed to be wheelchair accessible. The trail is paved and features a gentle grade, allowing for easy navigation for individuals using wheelchairs or strollers.
Is the High Trestle Trail Bridge dog friendly?
Yes, the High Trestle Trail Bridge and the High Trestle Trail are generally dog friendly. Dogs are welcome on the trail but should always be kept on a leash, and owners are expected to clean up after their pets. Please be mindful of other trail users, especially during busy times.
What are the best times to visit the High Trestle Trail Bridge to see the lights?
The bridge's iconic blue LED lights illuminate 23 of its steel frames after sunset. The lights are typically on from sunset until midnight between April and October, and until 9 p.m. from November through March. Visiting during these hours offers a unique and memorable experience, often described as a 'sci-fi tunnel' or 'surreal experience'.
Are there any cafes, pubs, or accommodation options near the High Trestle Trail Bridge?
The High Trestle Trail connects several towns, including Madrid and Woodward, which offer various amenities. You can find local cafes, pubs, and restaurants in these towns. For accommodation, there are options ranging from hotels to bed and breakfasts in the surrounding communities, particularly in larger nearby cities like Des Moines.
What unique features or landmarks can be found on the High Trestle Trail Bridge?
The bridge itself is a major landmark, known for its 41 steel 'cribbings' that create a 'mine shaft illusion' and its award-winning artistic design. Along the bridge, there are six overlooks with interpretive panels that provide insights into the area's cultural and natural history. The illuminated blue lights at night are also a distinctive feature.
What is the history behind the High Trestle Trail Bridge?
The High Trestle Trail and its bridge are built upon a former Union Pacific Railroad freight line. The current bridge replaced a 1913 railroad bridge, with its concrete piers earning the nickname 'Iowa's Stonehenge' after the original deck was removed. The transformation into a recreational trail began in 2005, with the iconic new bridge opening in April 2011, paying homage to the region's coal mining history.
What activities are available on the High Trestle Trail during winter?
While the bridge is a year-round attraction, winter offers a different experience. The paved trail is generally maintained, making it suitable for walking, running, or fat-tire biking, depending on snow conditions. The blue LED lights continue to illuminate the bridge until 9 p.m. from November through March, providing a magical atmosphere even in colder months. Always check local conditions before heading out.
How long is the High Trestle Trail Bridge itself?
The High Trestle Trail Bridge stretches nearly half a mile, specifically about 2,640 feet or 0.8 kilometers, across the Des Moines River Valley. It stands approximately 130 feet (13 stories) high.