Best attractions and places to see around Madrid. The region offers a variety of outdoor experiences, from trails built on old rail beds to state parks with large lakes. Visitors can explore diverse landscapes suitable for hiking and cycling. This area provides opportunities for outdoor activities, with several spots waiting to be discovered.
Last updated: May 12, 2026
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The Woodward Trailhead is part of the High Trestle Trail (HTT) that links to several multi-use pathways throughout central Iowa. Woodward boasts an adorable street sign to promote local businesses, restrooms, water fountains, parking lot, swing sets, a free little library, and a “story time” segment along the trail sponsored by the local library.
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Big Creek State Park is a very popular park for cycling and hiking. Big Creek Lake, at the center of the park, is the largest lake in the Iowa State Park system. The park has a swimming beach, paved bike and walking paths, restrooms and picnic areas.
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The High Trestle Trail is a 25-mile trail that runs through five towns. It was built on an old rail bed and is mostly flat. It is fully paved and is not a difficult path, so it is a great place for a family ride.
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The High Trestle Trail Bridge is a 1/2 mile long, 13-story high bridge that spans the Des Moines River Valley. It is one of the largest trail bridges in the world. This bridge has received many awards and was listed as one of the BBC's "eight amazing footbridges" in 2015 (https://www.bbc.com/culture/article/20150401-eight-amazing-footbridges)
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Families will find several excellent options. The High Trestle Trail is a 25-mile paved path built on an old rail bed, offering a mostly flat and accessible route perfect for family rides and walks. Big Creek State Park is another family-friendly destination, featuring the largest lake in the Iowa State Park system, a swimming beach, paved paths, and picnic areas. The Woodward Trailhead – High Trestle Trail also provides amenities like swing sets and a 'story time' segment along the trail.
Yes, the High Trestle Trail Bridge is noted as wheelchair accessible. The High Trestle Trail itself is a paved, mostly flat path, making it suitable for a wide range of visitors, including those using wheelchairs.
The region offers diverse natural landscapes. You can explore Big Creek State Park, which centers around Big Creek Lake, the largest lake in the Iowa State Park system. The area also features the Des Moines River Valley, spanned by the impressive High Trestle Trail Bridge, offering scenic views.
The area around Madrid is excellent for cycling and hiking. You can explore numerous routes, including those on the High Trestle Trail and within Big Creek State Park. For more detailed cycling routes, you can check out the Road Cycling Routes around Madrid and Cycling around Madrid guides.
Yes, both the High Trestle Trail and Big Creek State Park offer paved paths suitable for hiking and walking. The High Trestle Trail, built on an old rail bed, provides a mostly flat and accessible experience. Big Creek State Park also has dedicated walking paths.
The High Trestle Trail Bridge is a remarkable structure, 1/2 mile long and 13-stories high, spanning the Des Moines River Valley. It is recognized as one of the largest trail bridges globally and was even listed by the BBC as one of the 'eight amazing footbridges' in 2015.
The Woodward Trailhead – High Trestle Trail offers a dedicated parking lot for visitors accessing the trail. Additionally, Big Creek State Park also provides parking facilities for those visiting the park and its trails.
The Woodward Trailhead – High Trestle Trail is well-equipped with restrooms, water fountains, a parking lot, and even swing sets. It also features a free little library and a 'story time' segment along the trail, sponsored by the local library.
Visitors particularly appreciate the accessibility and scenic beauty of the area. The paved, mostly flat trails like the High Trestle Trail are popular for family outings, while the impressive High Trestle Trail Bridge offers unique views. The presence of facilities and natural features like Big Creek Lake also contribute to a positive visitor experience.
Yes, Big Creek State Park is home to Big Creek Lake, which is the largest lake in the Iowa State Park system. The park also features a swimming beach, making it a great spot for water-based recreation and relaxation.
The region offers a variety of cycling routes, primarily centered around the High Trestle Trail, which is a 25-mile paved path suitable for all skill levels. There are also routes that incorporate the High Trestle Trail Bridge and extend into Big Creek State Park. For more detailed options, refer to the Road Cycling Routes around Madrid and Cycling around Madrid guides.


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