Minneapolis BNSF Rail Bridge

The Minneapolis BNSF Rail Bridge is a combination of plate girder and truss construction that spans the Mississippi between downtown and Nicollet Island. The structure carries two tracks used by both freight operations and the Northstar Commuter Rail line, which terminates at Target Field.

Completed in 1893 by the Great Northern Railway, this was the first railroad crossing of the Mississippi in Minneapolis. It replaced an earlier bridge from 1867 that had served the growing rail network of the young city.

The bridge symbolizes Minneapolis industrial heritage, with trains crossing the Mississippi daily as part of the city's modern transit system. For commuters, it has become an ordinary part of their journey on the Northstar line.

The bridge is best viewed from nearby riverbanks or accessible paths, as it carries active rail traffic throughout the day. Stay at a safe distance from the tracks and be aware of train schedules when planning a viewing time.

The bridge features a distinctive structural bulge from a former curved section that once connected to Minneapolis Union Depot. This remnant remains visible today even though the depot was demolished in 1978 and that connection is no longer in use.

Location: Minneapolis

Official opening: 1893

GPS coordinates: 44.98780,-93.26580

Latest update: December 14, 2025 12:27