High Trestle Trail

While the entire 25-mile trail offers a great experience, many visitors prioritize the segment that includes the iconic High Trestle Trail Bridge. This nearly half-mile-long bridge, located between Madrid and Woodward, is a major highlight. A popular approach is to start from either Madrid or Woodward, cycle or walk across the bridge, and then explore the trail in either direction for a few miles before returning. The trail is paved and mostly flat, making it easy to customize your distance.

The High Trestle Trail is built on a former rail bed, which means it is remarkably flat. You can expect minimal elevation gain throughout its 25-mile length, making it an accessible and enjoyable experience for cyclists, walkers, and runners of all fitness levels.

Beyond the impressive bridge, the trail connects several charming towns—Ankeny, Sheldahl, Slater, Madrid, and Woodward—each offering unique local amenities. These towns provide opportunities for breaks, with some featuring local breweries, restaurants, and cafes. The trail also passes through diverse landscapes, including tree-covered sections and open farmland, offering varied scenery throughout your journey.

The High Trestle Trail Bridge's distinctive blue LED lights, which create an immersive experience at night, are typically illuminated from sunset until midnight between April and October. During the colder months, from November through March, the lights are on from sunset until 9 p.m. Experiencing the bridge after dark is a highly recommended highlight for many visitors.

You can find convenient parking and access points in the towns connected by the trail. Popular trailheads with parking are located in Ankeny, Slater, Madrid, and Woodward. Parking often fills up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak seasons, so arriving earlier in the day is advisable.

Yes, the High Trestle Trail is highly recommended for families with small children. Its fully paved, mostly flat surface makes it very accessible for strollers, tricycles, and young cyclists. The lack of significant hills and the smooth terrain ensure a safe and enjoyable outing for all ages. The bridge itself is a captivating feature that children often love.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the High Trestle Trail. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times, and owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets. Please be mindful of other trail users and ensure your dog is well-behaved.

During winter months, the High Trestle Trail remains accessible, but conditions can vary. While the paved surface is generally well-maintained, snow and ice can accumulate, especially after storms. Cyclists may prefer fat bikes or studded tires, while walkers should wear appropriate footwear for potentially slippery surfaces. The bridge lights operate on a reduced schedule (until 9 p.m.) during this period.

Given its fully paved and mostly flat nature, the entire High Trestle Trail is generally considered wheelchair accessible. The smooth surface makes it easy to navigate, and the bridge itself is designed for universal access. Access points in towns typically offer accessible parking and ramps to the trail.

The time it takes to bike the entire 25-mile High Trestle Trail depends on your speed and how many stops you make. For a casual cyclist, it might take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours to complete a one-way trip. Many choose to bike a segment, especially around the bridge, or plan for a round trip, which could take 4 to 8 hours with breaks.

The High Trestle Trail passes through diverse natural habitats, offering opportunities to observe local wildlife. You might spot various bird species, including raptors and waterfowl near the Des Moines River. Deer, rabbits, squirrels, and other small mammals are also commonly seen along the trail, especially in the more wooded sections.