Stretching nearly 25 miles through central Iowa, the High Trestle Trail offers an adventure that’s equal parts engineering marvel and natural engagement. The ride begins in Huxley, where flat Midwestern terrain gives way to forested sections and the mighty Des Moines River. The trail itself is a smooth, well-maintained crushed limestone path that holds steady in elevation, with a gentle ascent of about 150 feet across the iconic High Trestle Bridge.

This bridge, the trail’s centerpiece, strides 1,300 feet long and 13 stories above the river, daring riders and hikers alike to savor expansive views of the valley below. The steel mesh guardrails frame the sky and water, with the afternoon sun casting shifting patterns on the trail’s surface. Nature around you is alive but reserved—trees lining the corridor whisper with the breeze, and the river below insists on a steady pulse beneath the bridge.

While the ride’s gentle grade suits casual explorers, you’ll want sturdy footwear or a well-maintained bicycle capable of handling crushed limestone and occasional gravel. Early spring and late fall provide cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, though summer’s long days reward you with golden evening light for photography. Hydration matters—a water refill station is available at several points but not every mile.

Wildlife is sparse but present: keep an eye on the edge of the woods for white-tailed deer slipping through the shadows, and don’t be surprised if a red-tailed hawk glides overhead, surveying the trail below. The trail’s wide-open sections expose you to seasonal winds that push your pace or stall it, making preparation more than just a nod to comfort.

Practical planning calls for a start in Huxley or nearby Ankeny, as parking and amenities are concentrated there. Consider a mid-ride snack break at the trailhead kiosks before setting off across the bridge’s steel ribs. This connection between towns is also a cultural route, passing through small historic communities and landscapes shaped by farm life yet fiercely natural in its own right.

For those chasing snapshots, dawn and dusk deliver the best light, with the bridge silhouetted against the sky or glowing under artificial illumination after sunset. Capture the interplay of man-made grace and natural force where the river bends and the trail runs taut.

In essence, the High Trestle Trail Ride is a clear invitation—an accessible, rewarding line through Iowa’s open country, building anticipation for each bend and each sweeping view. It challenges endurance with distance rather than steep climbs, rewards with unforgettable vistas, and encourages respect for both the environment and the engineering behind it. Ready your legs, water, and camera. The sky awaits.