Welcome to the Covered Bridges Scenic Byway in Winterset, Iowa, a journey through time and history. This 82-mile stretch is not just about bridges; it is a portal into the rich tapestry of Madison County’s past. Throughout the mid-1800s, the area needed reliable routes across the Middle, North, and South Rivers, leading to the creation of these covered bridges. Built to last, the coverings protected the wooden structures from harsh weather, extending their lives well beyond the typical 20 years of uncovered wooden bridges.
Driving along this byway, you’ll encounter the famous bridges immortalized in ‘The Bridges of Madison County,’ a novel that captured hearts worldwide and was later adapted into a film and musical. Among the notable six standing bridges is the Holliwell Covered Bridge, constructed in 1880. Its timber lattice truss design was not only a marvel of engineering but also a necessity for the bustling rural life of the time, facilitating the movement of horses and wagons across challenging terrains.
As you explore, you’ll stumble upon the Madison County Historical Complex, where a small museum offers a glimpse into the county’s storied past. Don’t miss the chance to visit the birthplace of John Wayne, a testament to Winterset’s connection to the silver screen. Meanwhile, George Washington Carver, the esteemed scientist, once walked these lands in pursuit of education, a journey commemorated in a local park.
Pammel State Park, nearby, offers a different kind of covered bridge experience with its stone highway tunnel, the only one of its kind in Iowa. And if you’re an architecture enthusiast, Clark Tower in Winterset City Park provides a captivating view that ties the natural beauty and historical significance of the area together.
Whether you’re driving or taking a guided tour in a vintage car, the Covered Bridges Scenic Byway is more than a scenic drive—it’s a journey through the lives and legacies of those who shaped Iowa’s history.
