Sutliff Bridge, Southeast Iowa Travel Guide

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Walk through history on the Sutliff Bridge, a beautifully restored landmark offering scenic views and a glimpse into Iowa's past.

The Sutliff Bridge, a Parker truss bridge built in 1897-1898, spans the Cedar River near Lisbon, Iowa. Saved from demolition and restored after a major flood, it now serves as a pedestrian bridge and a testament to community perseverance.

A brief summary to Sutliff Bridge

Lisbon, Iowa, 52253, US

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Sutliff Bridge.

Bring a picnic to enjoy on the bridge's picnic tables while taking in the views of the Cedar River.
Explore the nearby Cedar River Crossing Conservation Area for hiking and nature trails.
Visit Baxa's Sutliff Store and Tavern, located near the bridge, for a refreshing break.

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Explore Sutliff Bridge on the Map

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Getting There

Driving

From Lisbon, Iowa, head south on Sutliff Road NE. The Sutliff Bridge will be a few miles down the road. Parking is available near the bridge. Note that the bridge is only open to pedestrian and bicycle traffic.
Walking

If you are in the small town of Sutliff, the bridge is easily accessible on foot. Follow the main road through town; you can't miss it. The bridge is a short walk from Baxa's Sutliff Store and Tavern.

Discover more about Sutliff Bridge

The Sutliff Bridge, located near Lisbon, Iowa, is more than just a bridge; it's a symbol of community and history. Originally built between 1897 and 1898, this Parker truss bridge crosses the Cedar River in the small town of Sutliff, named after Allen C. Sutliff, who established a ferry service here in 1838.Area residents decided to construct a permanent structure after sandbars made the ferry service obsolete. The bridge was completed for approximately $12,000 and was the longest in the county at the time. In 1984, local residents rallied to purchase the Sutliff Bridge from Johnson County, ensuring its preservation.While the bridge has been threatened by floods, most notably in 2008 when one of its spans was washed away, it has been rebuilt and restored. Today, the Sutliff Bridge serves as a pedestrian bridge within a public park, offering picnic tables and scenic views of the Cedar River. Educational panels along the bridge tell the story of the area's history, watershed, and the 2008 floods. The bridge is adjacent to the Sutliff Access area, which provides a boat ramp and picnic area. Visitors can also explore the nearby Cedar River Crossing Conservation Area.