Crossing the High Trestle Trail Bridge at sunset is an experience that pairs the thrill of cycling with views that demand your full attention. Stretching two-thirds of a mile over the South Skunk River, the bridge transforms into a glowing corridor as the sun dips low, igniting the sky in streaks of orange and purple. The structure itself, a repurposed railroad bridge adorned with intricate steel artwork, feels alive – the wind weaving through its girders seems to whisper stories of the trains that once rumbled here.

Starting your ride in Madrid, Iowa, the trail offers a mostly flat, paved surface running nearly 26 miles total, connecting mining towns long past. The elevation gain is gentle, allowing cyclists of all levels to focus on the sensory experience rather than battling steep climbs. Early evening is prime time when the sun’s descent catches the metal framework, casting elongated shadows and frames the vast Iowa plains beyond. Look to the horizon where fields dare you to keep your pace, and the river below pushes forward, relentless beneath your wheels.

Preparation is key for making the most of this adventure. Carry enough water – the trail offers no reliable refill points – and bring a headlamp or bike lights if you plan to ride after dusk. The bridge itself can be breezy, so a light windbreaker or layers serve well. The trail access in nearby Madrid has parking and amenities, but options grow sparse further along.

Allow at least two hours to ride the span and pause for photos or to simply soak in the view. The trail’s wide, smooth surface means you’ll cover ground quickly but consider stopping at the bridge’s observation decks, built to let you lean into the wind and drink in the skyline’s ever-changing colors.

This isn’t just a ride; it’s meeting a force that’s fiercely itself – the open Iowa sky and the man-made structure holding stories of old railways and new adventures. Sunset here is not merely a backdrop. It’s a surge of energy, beckoning you forward while offering quiet moments of reflection beneath its fiery glow. Remember to respect the rhythm of the environment and the bridge that carries you across—a bridge that demands attention and returns it tenfold with every turn of your pedals.