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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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'.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.