Back to Blog
Hightail high7/25/2023 ![]() The access point includes handicap parking and a portable toilet. At night, it’s a spectacular view with the river channel frames illuminated in vibrant blue lighting.įor those who want to hike, the closest parking is located at 2335 QF Lane in Madrid, less than a mile from The Bridge. There are six observation stations and 41 steel frames over The Bridge. It was dubbed “Iowa’s Stonehenge” until the pedestrian decking was put in place in 2011. When the railroad shut down, the decking was removed and, left in place, were 22 concrete piers that rose 130 feet from the river. ![]() Nearly a half-mile long and 13 stories high, The Bridge offers expansive views of the Des Moines River Valley. In 2015, the BBC named it one of the eight most amazing footbridges in the world. It’s the fifth-longest footbridge in the U.S. The Bridge is the “Crown Jewel” of Iowa’s trail system and has become an iconic image for the state. It is also the most popular trail because it leads to the High Trestle Trail Bridge. The trail is 25 miles of pure cycling pleasure it’s nearly completely flat and, on some stretches, seemingly fully enclosed in a canopy of trees. The Bridge is the “Crown Jewel” of Iowa’s trail system. Specialty beers are everywhere, including Iowa giants like Toppling Goliath of Decorah, Big Grove out of Solon, Backpocket in Coralville, Peace Tree from Knoxville, Lake Time in Clear Lake, Front Street in Davenport, SingleSpeed out of Cedar Falls, and both Confluence and Exile from Des Moines. Combine that with plenty of live music and multiple cycling events, and it’s easy to see why many of these trail spots are overflowing on the evenings and weekends.īeer is the clear choice for most cyclists, and it’s a veritable smorgasbord along the trails. Many of these spots have responded by upgrading their menus with more entrees, appetizers, mules, cocktails and a myriad of craft beers. Many of the trailheads have modern restrooms, water refills, and even bike repair stations.įor riders to relax and refresh along the way, there are also plenty of bars and restaurants, which can turn a leisurely ride into a unique and enjoyable excursion. The majority of these trails are built on old railroad beds, are paved concrete or asphalt, and have little elevation change, making them relatively easy to ride or hike. ![]() ![]() “But now you can cycle 100 miles from Des Moines in any direction. “When we started, we thought Des Moines had a pretty cool bike scene,” he said. Scott Sumpter started 20 years ago to help guide Iowans to biking events. ![]()
0 Comments
Read More
Leave a Reply. |