High Trestle Trail Bridge

A soaring half-mile former railroad trestle bridge 13 stories above the Des Moines River, wrapped in 43 twisting steel frames meant to evoke descending into a coal mine shaft — after dark, 23 of those frames glow with electric blue LED light, making the crossing feel like stepping into another world. The trail is open 24/7 and free to access, with blue lights running nightly from dusk until midnight (April–October) or 9 p.m. (November–March).

The move: Park at the Madrid trailhead, rent or bring bikes, and ride the 2.6-mile trail to the bridge at dusk — time your arrival for just after sunset when the blue steel ribs flicker on. Walk or pedal slowly across the half-mile span, pausing midway to look down at the river 13 stories below while the frames glow around you. Pack a blanket and a thermos, linger on the bridge as full dark settles in, then ride back under the stars.

• 📍 Madrid
• 💸 $$
• ⚡ Up for anything
• 🌗 Indoors

Where: 2335 Qf Ln, Madrid, IA 50156 (High Trestle Trail between Madrid and Woodward)

Hours: Mined 2026-06-07 — confirm current hours before you go.

Plan a visit & invite your people →

Proof: source 1 · source 2 · source 3

Verified 2026-06-07.