The High Trestle Trail Bridge in central Iowa offers one of the most distinctive cycling and walking experiences in the American Midwest, combining industrial heritage with contemporary art on a structure visible for miles across the Des Moines River valley. This half-mile-long former railroad bridge has become Iowa’s most photographed landmark outside its major cities, drawing visitors who want to experience its dramatic steel framework that glows blue at night.
Understanding when to visit, how to reach the bridge, what to expect on the trail, and how to plan your time will help you make the most of this unique destination whether you’re cycling the full trail or making a short trip specifically to see the bridge.
What Makes the High Trestle Trail Bridge Worth Visiting?
The High Trestle Trail Bridge is a 13-story-high, 2,685-foot steel truss bridge that crosses the Des Moines River valley between the towns of Madrid and Woodward in central Iowa. Originally built in 1913 for the Fort Dodge, Des Moines and Southern Railroad to haul coal, the bridge was converted into a pedestrian and bicycle trail feature in 2011 with the addition of 41 massive steel frames that arc over the deck, representing the mining heritage of the region and creating a tunnel-like effect that’s illuminated by blue LED lights after dark.
Getting to the High Trestle Trail Bridge
The bridge sits roughly 30 miles northwest of Des Moines and 40 miles south of Fort Dodge along the High Trestle Trail, a 25-mile rail trail connecting Ankeny to Woodward. You can access the bridge from trailheads on either side in the towns of Madrid (east access) or Woodward (west access).
Both towns offer free parking, restrooms, and trail access within a short walk or ride to the bridge. The Madrid trailhead provides slightly closer access, with the bridge approximately 1 mile west of the parking area.
Driving Directions
From Des Moines, take Interstate 35 north to exit 113 near Ankeny, then follow Highway 175 west through Sheldahl to Madrid. From the west on Interstate 80, take the Dexter exit and head north on Highway 169, then east on County Road F31 to Woodward.
GPS coordinates for the Madrid trailhead are approximately 41.8833° N, 93.9167° W. Cell phone reception is generally reliable in both towns but may be spotty on the bridge itself.
When the Bridge Lights Up
The bridge’s signature blue LED lighting system activates automatically from dusk to midnight every night of the year. The 185 LED fixtures create a glowing tunnel effect visible from miles away, making the structure appear to float above the river valley in darkness.
The best viewing times occur during the blue hour just after sunset and on clear nights when stars are visible through the steel frames. Visiting during a full moon adds another dimension to the experience, though the bridge lighting remains the dominant visual feature.
Seasonal Considerations
The bridge and trail remain open year-round. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures for walking or cycling, typically between 50-75°F (10-24°C), while summer visits can be hot and humid with temperatures reaching 90°F (32°C) or higher.
Winter visits are possible but require preparation for cold, wind, and potential ice on the bridge deck. The trail surface is maintained but not heated, and snow removal happens after accumulation but is not immediate.
Experiencing the Bridge
Walking across the bridge takes approximately 10-15 minutes at a leisurely pace. Cycling across takes 2-5 minutes depending on speed, though most visitors stop multiple times for photographs and to take in the views.
The bridge deck is paved and wide enough for two-way bicycle and pedestrian traffic, with designated lanes to separate users. Railings run the full length on both sides, reaching approximately waist height for most adults.
What You’ll See
The 41 steel frames rise and fall in varying heights, creating a wavelike profile that represents the geological layers miners would have encountered underground. Each frame consists of powder-coated steel tubing, with gaps between the tubes allowing views of the sky, river valley, and surrounding farmland.
From the bridge deck, you can see the Des Moines River below (though it’s often dry or reduced to a small stream during summer months), agricultural fields extending in all directions, and the wooded river valley. On clear days, you may spot hawks, turkey vultures, or eagles using thermal currents above the valley.
Photography Tips
The most dramatic photographs come during the blue hour after sunset when the LED lights are on but some natural light remains. A tripod helps for long-exposure shots that capture the full glow effect, though handheld photography is possible with newer smartphone cameras.
Daytime visits offer strong composition opportunities with the geometric frames against the sky. Shooting from ground level at either end of the bridge provides perspective on the structure’s full height and length.
Exploring the Full High Trestle Trail
The bridge forms the centerpiece of the 25-mile High Trestle Trail, which follows the former railroad corridor through five communities. The full trail is paved and relatively flat with gentle grades, making it suitable for road bikes, hybrid bikes, and recreational cyclists.
Cycling the full trail one way takes most recreational riders 2-3 hours. Round-trip rides typically require 4-6 hours including rest stops, meaning a full-trail experience works best as a half-day or full-day activity.
Trail Highlights Beyond the Bridge
- Ankeny trailhead on the eastern end offers the most amenities, including restaurants, shops, and connections to other central Iowa trails
- Historic downtown Slater provides cafes and a small-town stop roughly 8 miles from Ankeny
- Sheldahl offers basic services and a quiet prairie setting midway between Ankeny and Madrid
- Woodward on the western end has a swimming pool, small downtown, and connections to county roads for extended rides
Practical Information for Your Visit
No admission fee, permit, or reservation is required to use the bridge or trail. The route is managed by the Central Iowa Trail Association and local county conservation boards, which maintain the surface and facilities.
Restrooms are available at trailheads in all five communities but not on the trail itself between towns. Water fountains exist at major trailheads but are shut off during winter months.
What to Bring
- Bicycle in good working condition with properly inflated tires (no off-road or fat tire bikes necessary)
- Helmet, which is strongly recommended though not legally required for adults in Iowa
- Water, especially during warm months when temperatures can climb significantly
- Flashlight or bike light if you plan to be on the bridge after dark
- Layers for wind, which can be strong and sustained on the bridge deck year-round
- Sunscreen and hat for daytime summer visits with minimal shade on the bridge
Accessibility
The bridge and trail meet ADA accessibility standards with paved surfaces, gradual slopes, and no steps. The grade approaching the bridge from either direction is noticeable but remains within accessible limits for most wheelchairs and mobility devices.
Both Madrid and Woodward trailheads offer accessible parking and restroom facilities. Wind on the bridge deck can challenge some mobility devices, particularly lightweight wheelchairs, so assistance may be helpful on windy days.
Nearby Attractions and Services
Madrid, the closest town with the easiest bridge access, has a population of around 2,500 and offers several locally-owned restaurants, a brewery, basic groceries, and gas stations. The town celebrates Madrid Moonlight Ramble each July, a nighttime bike ride featuring the illuminated bridge.
Woodward provides similar services on a smaller scale. Neither town has hotels, but both have bed-and-breakfasts that require advance booking during peak summer weekends and special events.
Lodging Options
Ankeny, at the eastern end of the trail, offers the widest selection of chain hotels, restaurants, and services, sitting just north of Des Moines metro area. Staying in Ankeny allows you to ride the trail from end to end or drive to the Madrid trailhead for quick bridge access.
Boone, located about 12 miles north of the bridge, provides additional hotel options and attractions including the Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad and Ledges State Park. Ames, home to Iowa State University, sits about 15 miles northeast and offers extensive lodging and dining.
Combining the Bridge with Other Activities
Ledges State Park, roughly 20 miles northeast near Boone, features sandstone cliffs, wooded trails, and the Des Moines River in a more natural setting. A visit there combines well with the bridge for a full day of outdoor activity in central Iowa.
The Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge east of Prairie City, about 35 miles southeast, protects tallgrass prairie and offers bison and elk viewing. Des Moines attractions including the State Capitol, art center, and botanical garden are 30-40 minutes southeast.
Safety and Trail Etiquette
The bridge deck can be slippery when wet and icy in winter. Wind speeds often increase noticeably on the bridge compared to ground level due to the elevation and open valley setting.
Standard trail etiquette applies: cyclists yield to pedestrians, faster users announce passes, and everyone stays right except when passing. The bridge can become crowded during nice-weather weekends and special events, requiring patience and reduced speeds.
What to Avoid
Do not climb on the steel frames, which are designed as art installations and safety barriers, not climbing structures. Pets must remain leashed on the trail and bridge.
Alcohol is not permitted on the trail or bridge. While the area is generally safe, the bridge’s remote location between towns means emergency response times may be longer than in urban settings.
Planning Your Visit
For a quick visit focused solely on the bridge, allow 1-2 hours total including driving time from Des Moines, walking or cycling across the bridge, and taking photographs. This works well as a sunset and evening activity to experience both daylight and illuminated views.
Cyclists planning to ride significant portions of the trail should allow 3-6 hours depending on distance and stops. A full trail traverse with a vehicle shuttle requires coordination or using a bike shuttle service during organized ride events.
Best Times to Visit
Weekday visits typically encounter fewer crowds than weekends, especially during midday hours. Saturday and Sunday afternoons from May through September bring the most trail traffic.
September and October offer comfortable temperatures, fall colors in the river valley, and fewer insects than summer months. Late spring (May) brings wildflowers and green landscapes but also has the highest likelihood of rain.
Before You Go
Check current trail conditions, weather forecasts, and any scheduled events that might affect your visit through the Central Iowa Trail Association or local county conservation websites. Severe weather, including thunderstorms and winter storms, can make the exposed bridge dangerous.
Verify that any services or businesses you plan to use in Madrid or Woodward are open, as small-town hours can be limited, particularly on Sundays or during off-season months. Bring cash for any purchases in smaller establishments that may not accept cards.
The High Trestle Trail Bridge demonstrates how infrastructure can be transformed into public art and recreation space while honoring regional history. Whether you’re a serious cyclist tackling the full trail or a visitor making a short trip to see Iowa’s illuminated landmark, the bridge offers a genuinely unique experience that justifies the journey to central Iowa’s farm country.
Start by confirming current trail conditions and weather, then decide whether you want to experience the bridge during daylight hours, at sunset, or after full dark when the blue lights create their most dramatic effect.
We hope this guide helps you plan your visit to the High Trestle Trail Bridge and make the most of this distinctive Iowa landmark.