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Cutler-Donahoe Covered Bridge: A Piece of Iowa History

Discover the historic charm of the Cutler-Donahoe Covered Bridge in Winterset City Park, a symbol of Madison County's heritage and craftsmanship.

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The Cutler-Donahoe Covered Bridge, built in 1870, is a charming example of 19th-century bridge construction. Originally located over the North River near Bevington, Iowa, it was moved to Winterset City Park in 1970, where it stands as a testament to the region's heritage and a highlight of Madison County's famed covered bridges.

A brief summary to Cutler-Donahoe Covered Bridge

  • Monday 6 am-10:30 pm
  • Tuesday 6 am-10:30 pm
  • Wednesday 6 am-10:30 pm
  • Thursday 6 am-10:30 pm
  • Friday 6 am-10:30 pm
  • Saturday 6 am-10:30 pm
  • Sunday 6 am-10:30 pm

Local tips

  • Explore Winterset City Park, where the bridge is located, to enjoy walking trails, a hedge maze, and the historic Clark Tower.
  • Visit during the annual Covered Bridge Festival in October to experience the area's covered bridge heritage.
  • Combine your visit with other Madison County attractions, such as the John Wayne Birthplace Museum and the Iowa Quilt Museum.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Winterset's town square, head south on S 9th St for about half a mile. The Cutler-Donahoe Covered Bridge will be visible at the entrance to Winterset City Park. The walk is mostly flat and takes approximately 15 minutes. No costs are involved.

  • Driving

    From Interstate 35, take US-169 S towards Winterset. Follow US-169 S to S 9th St and turn left. The Cutler-Donahoe Covered Bridge is a short distance ahead at the entrance to Winterset City Park, located at 300 S 9th St. Ample parking is available near the bridge. Parking is free.

  • Public Transport

    While public transportation options are limited in rural Iowa, you can use Greyhound or local transit services to reach Winterset. Once in Winterset, you may need to arrange a local taxi or rideshare service to reach the Cutler-Donahoe Covered Bridge at 300 S 9th St. HIRTA Public Transit also serves Winterset. Taxi/rideshare fare from downtown Winterset to the bridge is estimated to be $8-$15.

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Discover more about Cutler-Donahoe Covered Bridge

Nestled in Winterset City Park, the Cutler-Donahoe Covered Bridge offers visitors a glimpse into Iowa's past. Built in 1870 by Eli Cox, the 79-foot-long bridge originally spanned the North River near Bevington, approximately 18 miles northeast of its current location. In 1970, it was relocated to the park in time for Winterset's first Covered Bridge Festival. The bridge's name comes from two families, the Cutlers and the Donahoes, who both claimed naming rights when it was in its original location. Constructed with a Town lattice truss and a traditional pitched roof, the bridge showcases the craftsmanship of the era, utilizing wooden pins and iron bolts. Although it no longer carries vehicular traffic, it serves as a picturesque landmark within the park. Winterset City Park itself adds to the bridge's appeal, offering 76 acres of green space, walking trails, a hedge maze, and Clark Tower, a historic stone tower offering panoramic views. The Cutler-Donahoe Covered Bridge provides a tranquil setting for a leisurely stroll and a connection to Madison County's rich history.

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