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Kate Shelley High Bridge: An Iowa Icon

Visit the Kate Shelley High Bridge near Boone, Iowa, and discover the story of a local heroine and a marvel of engineering.

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The Kate Shelley High Bridge, officially the Boone Viaduct, is a historic double-track railroad bridge near Boone, Iowa. Named after Kate Shelley, a local heroine, it stands as a testament to engineering and bravery. A newer bridge stands alongside it, both spanning the Des Moines River valley.

A brief summary to Kate Shelley High Bridge

  • Boone, Iowa, 50036, US

Local tips

  • Bring binoculars for a better view of the bridge's structure and any passing trains.
  • Visit the nearby Kate Shelley Railroad Museum in Moingona to learn more about Kate Shelley's story.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to Ledges State Park or the High Trestle Trail for a full day of exploring the area.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The Kate Shelley High Bridge is located a few miles west of Boone, Iowa. From Boone, head west on Highway 30. Turn north onto L Avenue, then left onto 216th Drive, right onto J Avenue, and another right onto 208th Street. Finally, turn left onto Juneberry Road, which passes under the bridges. Parking is available near the bridge. There are no tolls on this route. Parking is free.

  • Public Transportation

    To reach the Kate Shelley High Bridge via public transportation, take a Greyhound bus to the Boone, IA station. From there, utilize a taxi or rideshare service like Uber or Lyft to reach the bridge, which is approximately 5 miles away. Expect to pay around $10-$15 for the taxi ride.

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Discover more about Kate Shelley High Bridge

The Kate Shelley High Bridge, originally named the Boone Viaduct, is an iconic landmark in Boone County, Iowa. Completed in 1901, it's one of the highest and longest double-track railroad bridges in the United States. Rising 185 feet above the Des Moines River, the bridge stretches an impressive 2,685 feet in length. The bridge is named in honor of Kate Shelley, a local heroine who, in 1881, risked her life to warn an approaching passenger train that the Honey Creek Bridge had collapsed during a severe storm. Her courageous act saved countless lives and cemented her place in Iowa history. The original bridge was designed by George S. Morison and is a remarkable feat of engineering for its time. In 2009, a new bridge was constructed alongside the original to accommodate heavier trains and increased traffic. The new bridge, officially named the Kate Shelley Bridge, is slightly longer and taller than the original. Visitors can view both bridges from various vantage points in the area. While the original bridge is no longer in regular service, it remains a visible reminder of the region's railroad history and Kate Shelley's bravery. The Kate Shelley High Bridge offers a glimpse into the past and a chance to appreciate the ingenuity and determination that shaped the region.

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