Madison County: Covered Bridges and History

Madison County is defined by its covered bridges and historic sites. Six covered bridges remain, five of them in their original form. The county’s bridges were built between 1868 and 1889. Four of the surviving bridges have nearly flat roofs, a design feature used by bridge builder Harvey P. Jones that is now considered unique in the United States. The Covered Bridges Scenic Byway is more than 82 miles long and focuses on the bridges, as well as scenic natural areas, historic sites, and cultural sites.

Bridges and Their Special Features

The six surviving bridges differ in age, design, and history. Imes Covered Bridge is the oldest surviving bridge in the county. Holliwell Covered Bridge is the longest, with a span of 110 feet. Roseman Covered Bridge remains at its original location and appeared in the 1994 film “The Bridges of Madison County.”

Cedar Bridge has a special practical role: it is the only surviving covered bridge in Madison County that is open to vehicle traffic. Observe the posted height restrictions. Travelers who want to focus on bridge architecture and history can follow the Scenic Byway, a route that connects these themes with natural and cultural sites.

The Madison County Covered Bridge Festival is also part of the seasonal travel experience: it takes place every year on the second full weekend in October. Check the dates for the relevant year when planning your trip.

Winterset and Historic Sites

Winterset is at the intersection of US Highway 169 and Iowa Highway 92; Interstate 80 and Interstate 35 are within a 15-minute drive from Winterset. Winterset City Park has an English maze made of living hedges. The park was added to the National Register of Historic Places in March 2021.

Clark Tower is a 25-foot-tall limestone monument built by Caleb and Ruth Clark’s sons in their honor. Visitors can climb its two stories and look out over the Middle River Valley from the top. Access conditions may vary by season.

The John Wayne Birthplace & Museum features an extensive collection of artifacts and memorabilia from the actor’s life and career. His birthplace has been restored to reflect its appearance in 1907. The Iowa Quilt Museum offers another glimpse into local culture: it displays quilts and information about the history of quilting, with exhibitions changing every few months.

The Madison County Historical Complex includes 14 buildings on 23 acres. Among its notable buildings is the Bevington-Kaser House, built in 1856. The complex also has a nine-hole, intermediate-level disc golf course; bring your own equipment. The Madison County Courthouse has been added to the National Register of Historic Places twice. Visitors can see the ground floor and the military memorials mounted on its walls year-round on weekdays. Confirm access on site.

North River Stone Schoolhouse was built in 1874 from local limestone and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. You can view the exterior without an appointment; access to the interior requires scheduling in advance with the Madison County Historical Complex. Confirm the appointment arrangements before your visit.

River, Park, and Prairie

The Middle River Water Trail stretches for about 45 river miles and ends at historic Holliwell Covered Bridge. The bridge is about 3½ miles southeast of Winterset. Check current information about the water trail and its endpoint before planning your trip.

The 350-acre Pammel Park is known for its distinctive limestone ridge, called the “Backbone.” Nearly five miles of trails wind through its wooded areas. There is a canoe and kayak access point on the west bank of Middle River Ford; check current water conditions in advance.

Hanson Prairie Preserve is a 30-acre tallgrass prairie. Trails run around the prairie, which visitors can explore on foot. Middle River Park has access to the Middle River, a paved trail network, and picnic and shelter facilities. Along with bridges and historic sites, the county therefore offers a range of landscapes and activities.

Culture and Events

The Iowa Theater was fully restored from 2015 to 2017 and then reopened. It operates as a nonprofit, multipurpose cinema and events center. Since the program may change, check current events. Covered Bridges Winery also hosts events with wine tastings; you can check current offerings in advance.

A stay in Madison County can combine a variety of interests: the architectural history of the covered bridges, museums and historic buildings, river and prairie experiences, and events. Which activities you prioritize depends on whether you want to allow more time for attractions, nature, or a particular seasonal offering.

Explore more destinations: Winterset, Black Hawk, Worth County, Clarke County, Mitchell County, Monona County, Emmet County, Allamakee County

Return to the main travel overview: Iowa.