Cedar Covered Bridge

Cedar Bridge spans about 23 meters across the North River with traditional wooden truss construction and a protective roof overhead. The structure preserves the classic design features that define covered bridges from this era.

Built in 1883 by Benson Jones, the structure has endured multiple incidents of arson damage in 2002 and 2017. The latest restoration was completed in 2019, returning this historical structure to its current condition.

The bridge gained widespread attention through Robert James Waller's novel and the film adaptation with Clint Eastwood and Meryl Streep. The story of this place remains deeply connected to that literary and cinematic moment, shaping how people experience it today.

Cedar Bridge Park provides access to the structure with designated parking and picnic facilities for visitors. The location is easily accessible and set up for comfortable daytime exploration.

This structure remains the only covered bridge in Madison County that still allows vehicle traffic. It demonstrates how a historical building can maintain its original purpose while being preserved for the future.

Location: Winterset

Inception: 1883

Length: 23 m

GPS coordinates: 41.36472,-93.99000

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:42