High Trestle Trail

A Bridge Over History: The High Trestle Experience

The ride from Madrid to Woodward is a short but spectacular 6-mile stretch (one way) that puts you right in the heart of the Des Moines River Valley. Using e-bikes for this was a smart move; it allowed us to cruise through the scenic farmland and wooded areas with plenty of energy left to really soak in the views at the bridge.

The Iconic Bridge

The High Trestle Trail Bridge is the undisputed star of the show. Standing 13 stories high (130 feet) and stretching for nearly half a mile, it’s one of the largest pedestrian and bicycle bridges in the world. The architecture isn't just for looks,it tells a story. The 41 steel "cribs" (the diamond-shaped frames) that twist around you as you ride were designed by artist David Dahlquist to simulate the experience of traveling through a coal mine shaft. This is a tribute to the Italian immigrant families who worked the local mines over a century ago.

Why the "High Trestle"?

We learned that the trail follows a decommissioned Union Pacific Railroad line. The bridge sits on massive concrete piers that were originally built in the 1970s. When the railroad abandoned the line, the bridge was almost lost, but it was saved and transformed into the "Stonehenge of Iowa" before the modern decking and art were added in 2011.

Views for Miles

Crossing the bridge feels like flying over the valley. There are six overlook spots where you can pull over and look down at the Des Moines River far below. It’s one of the best places in the state to catch a sunset, though even in the middle of the day, the panoramic view of the river valley is absolutely stunning. The High Trestle Trail is a perfect example of how Iowa has turned its industrial history into a world-class outdoor playground. Even if you only had time for  one section, you definitely saw the best of it!