High Trestle Trail Bridge – High Trestle Trail loop from Madrid
High Trestle Trail Bridge – High Trestle Trail loop from Madrid
2.7
(11)
28
riders
High Trestle Trail Bridge – High Trestle Trail loop from Madrid
01:28
27.2km
120m
Road cycling
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: April 19, 2026
Tips
The surface for a segment of your route may not be suitable
Some segments of your route comprise a surface that may not be suitable for your chosen sport.
After 5.12 km for 155 m
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
4.45 km
High Trestle Trail Bridge
Highlight • Bridge
Tip by
4.54 km
High Trestle Trail Bridge
Highlight (Segment) • Bridge
Tip by
5.19 km
View of High Trestle Trail Bridge
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
11.3 km
High Trestle Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
18.7 km
High Trestle Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
27.2 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
26.8 km
292 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
27.0 km
146 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Tuesday 14 July
33°C
19°C
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for an easy, high-payoff road cycling route in Iowa, the High Trestle Trail Bridge – High Trestle Trail loop from Madrid is definitely worth your time. This 16.9-mile (27.2 km) route, rated easy, features a gentle 392 feet (119 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 1 hour and 27 minutes to complete. It's perfect for families and cyclists of all fitness levels who want a scenic and memorable ride, especially if you're interested in High Trestle Trail loop Madrid road cycling.
What to expect on High Trestle Trail Bridge – High Trestle Trail loop from Madrid
This route offers a journey across varied landscapes, primarily following a smooth, paved rail trail. You'll cycle through rolling farmland and clusters of trees, with some sections providing open views and others offering welcome shade. The absolute highlight is the monumental High Trestle Trail Bridge, which spans the Des Moines River Valley. This half-mile long bridge is not just a feat of engineering; it's an artistic experience, especially at night when its 41 steel frames are illuminated with blue LED lights, creating a captivating "tunnel effect." Interpretive panels along the bridge share insights into the region's cultural and natural history, including its past in coal mining, adding depth to the ride. The terrain of High Trestle Trail Madrid loop is largely flat, making it an accessible and enjoyable experience for nearly everyone.
Planning your visit
Starting your ride from Madrid, Iowa, offers convenient access to this popular trail. While there are no complex permits or fees, consider timing your visit to experience the High Trestle Trail Bridge at dusk. The artistic illumination of the bridge begins then and continues until midnight (or 9 PM in winter), transforming the structure into a truly magical sight. Parking for High Trestle Trail Bridge is available in Madrid, making it easy to begin your adventure.
Trail details
- Distance: 16.9 miles (27.2 km)
- Elevation gain: 392 feet (119 metres)
- Difficulty: easy
- Estimated time: 1 hours and 27 minutes
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