High Trestle Trail Bridge loop from Woodward
High Trestle Trail Bridge loop from Woodward
3.3
(26)
27
riders
High Trestle Trail Bridge loop from Woodward
02:34
45.9km
170m
Road cycling
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: March 16, 2026
Tips
The surface along some of this route may not be suitable
Some segments of your route comprise a surface that may not be suitable for your chosen sport.
After 4.26 km for 1.19 km
After 40.6 km for 155 m
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
40.6 km
View of High Trestle Trail Bridge
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
41.3 km
High Trestle Trail Bridge
Highlight (Segment) • Bridge
Tip by
45.9 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
40.5 km
2.81 km
2.39 km
204 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
44.3 km
1.32 km
350 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Wednesday 10 June
28°C
22°C
91 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 23.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for an accessible and visually rewarding road cycling experience, the High Trestle Trail Bridge loop from Woodward delivers. This moderate 28.5-mile (45.9 km) road cycling route, with a gentle 573 feet (175 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 2 hours and 33 minutes, making it an easy high-payoff win for cyclists of all levels.
What to expect on High Trestle Trail Bridge loop from Woodward
The journey begins by passing through classic Iowa farmland, gradually transitioning to cooler, wooded sections as you approach the Des Moines River. The terrain is primarily smooth, paved asphalt and concrete, ensuring a comfortable ride with minimal elevation changes. The undeniable highlight and a true landmark is the High Trestle Bridge itself, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Des Moines River Valley. This half-mile engineering marvel, an art installation called "From Here to There," features unique twisting steel ribs and LED lights, providing a surreal experience, especially after dark. You might even spot wildlife like deer or pelicans along the way, adding to the natural features of the route. The gentle grade means it's suitable for everyone, from casual riders to more avid cyclists.
Planning your visit
Starting your ride from Woodward is highly recommended, as it provides convenient parking and access to a former rail house with exhibits detailing the trail's history. While the trail is enjoyable at any time, visiting after dark offers a unique perspective as the bridge's blue LED lights illuminate, creating a kaleidoscopic effect. This route is part of a larger network, connecting to hundreds of miles of trails across central Iowa, and is a component of the developing Great American Rail-Trail.
- Distance: 28.5 miles (45.9 km)
- Elevation gain: 573 feet (175 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 2 hours and 33 minutes
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