The Bridges of Madison County were made famous by the book and movie of the same name, and for years, these beautiful covered bridges have come to represent some of Iowa’s history and how it blends with our state’s natural beauty. One park in Madison County has preserved a bridge, along with several other unique structures, to create a hiking destination unlike any other in the Midwest.

Winterset City Park is one of Iowa’s most underrated destinations, and it’s prettiest in the fall.

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The park is full of historic structures, like this Pioneer log cabin which was originally built in 1852!

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Clark Tower is another important landmark in Winterset City Park.

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This stunning stone tower is open for the public to climb, and you’lll enjoy the panoramic view from the windows all the way up.

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Perhaps the most famous destination within Winterset City Park is the Cutlter-Donahoe Bridge.

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This is one of the original Bridge of Madison County, and it’s absolutely stunning against the colors of autumn.

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As you hike through the park, you’ll encounter it. When it was built in 1870, it crossed the North River, but in 1979 it was moved to the park in 1979 for preservation

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Walking across this stunning, historic bridge is an experience that’s hard to describe, but it will surely be an enchanting moment you’ll remember forever.

Flickr / Phil Roeder

To learn more about the historic Bridges of Madison County, read There’s Something Magical About These 12 Gorgeous Bridges In Iowa and take some time to appreciate these man-made wonders.

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Flickr / Phil Roeder

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