Des Moines to Winterset: Madison County Covered Bridges
This classic Iowa drive (~60–70 miles round-trip) takes you about 30 miles southwest of Des Moines to Winterset, the charming county seat of Madison County. Madison County is famous for its covered bridges, immortalized by the novel and 1995 film The Bridges of Madison County. There are six historic covered bridges remaining in the county (five original and one replica), and you can visit all of them. Start at the Madison County Chamber & Welcome Center in Winterset’s courthouse square, where you can pick up a free map of the bridges. From there, country lanes lead you through rolling hills and farmland to each bridge a peaceful rural drive where you might pass tractors or horse-drawn wagons on the quiet gravel roads. In autumn, the scenery is especially beautiful with leaves turning gold and red against the rustic bridges.
Must-see bridges: Two of the covered bridges, Roseman Bridge and Holliwell Bridge, are must stops they were prominently featured in The Bridges of Madison County movie. Roseman Bridge, for example, is where Clint Eastwood’s character set up his camera in the film. Each bridge has its own story and is very photogenic, so bring your camera (they’re particularly lovely at sunset). All six bridges are open to walk through and explore. Keep in mind most are reached via short stretches of gravel road drive slowly on loose gravel and note that only one bridge (Cedar Bridge, a rebuilt replica) is still open to vehicles. The others you’ll park and walk up to, which is part of the fun.
Other highlights in Winterset: The town itself offers a slice of small-town Iowa hospitality. Winterset is the birthplace of Hollywood legend John Wayne, and the John Wayne Birthplace & Museum is located here. The museum features Wayne’s restored 1907 birth-home and an adjacent museum with memorabilia from his film career a treat for movie buffs. After visiting bridges, you might grab a slice of pie or ice cream at a local café on the courthouse square and enjoy the relaxed vibe. If the weather’s nice, consider packing a picnic lunch many bridges have grassy areas or picnic tables nearby (Cedar Bridge even has a designated picnic spot). As you relax by a century-old bridge, you can imagine the history and romantic folklore these structures have witnessed.
Travel tips: Roads to Imes and Cutler-Donahoe bridges are paved, but the others (Roseman, Hogback, Holliwell) are on gravel/dirt roads, so plan for a slower drive. The bridges are open 24/7 year-round with no fees. Early morning or late-day light is best for photos. And don’t rush though you can see all the bridges in a half day, taking a full day allows you to savor the scenery and history at a leisurely pace. (Winterset also hosts a Covered Bridges Festival each October, if you’re planning a fall trip.)
Highlights & Tips Summary:
- Madison County Covered Bridges: Six wooden covered bridges from the 19th century in picturesque rural settings (the largest concentration in one area west of the Mississippi). Featured in The Bridges of Madison County film especially Roseman and Holliwell Bridges.
- Winterset Welcome Center: Start here for maps and info (73 Jefferson St.). Guided bridge tours are available through the Chamber if desired.
- John Wayne Museum: The only museum dedicated to John Wayne, who was born in Winterset. Tour his childhood home and see exhibits from his movie career.
- Scenic Drive Notes: Enjoy rolling hill scenery and farms; most bridge sites are accessed via gravel roads drive slow and careful on loose gravel.
- Bridges are open to foot traffic year-round, no entrance fee.
- Photo Ops: Bring a camera each bridge is very photogenic, especially with fall foliage or at sunset. Roseman Bridge is a favorite for its secluded, serene atmosphere.