DeSoto Bridge

The DeSoto Bridge is an arch bridge that crosses the Mississippi River in St. Cloud and is constructed from dark-toned steel. The structure spans approximately 270 meters and is about 21 meters wide, with pronounced arches that emerge from the elevated banks on both sides.

The bridge was built in 1958 by the Minnesota Department of Transportation to provide a four-lane crossing of the Mississippi River. The project was part of Minnesota's efforts to modernize the region's transportation infrastructure in the mid-20th century.

The bridge takes its name from Hernando de Soto, the Spanish explorer who traveled through the region in the 16th century. The name connects the structure to the early exploration history of the Mississippi Valley.

The bridge serves as a major traffic route in St. Cloud and offers pedestrian and bicycle access across the river. Views of the water and surrounding landscape are best during daytime crossings when natural light illuminates the river valley below.

The dark gray steel material gives the bridge an unusual appearance that sets it apart from typical highway bridges in the region. This characteristic coloring reflects design choices that became more common in American bridge construction over time.