Hogback Covered Bridge: A Step Back in Time

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Step back in time at the Hogback Covered Bridge, a picturesque and historic landmark in Madison County, Iowa. Built in 1884.

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Hogback Covered Bridge

The Hogback Covered Bridge, built in 1884, is a historic landmark near Winterset, Iowa. Named for a nearby limestone ridge, this bridge offers a glimpse into 19th-century craftsmanship and rural Iowa. It's a must-see for history buffs and those seeking a peaceful escape.

A brief summary to Hogback Covered Bridge

1879 Hogback Bridge Rd, Winterset, Iowa, 50273, US

Local tips

Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photographs.
Take a leisurely walk along the river near the bridge to enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Combine your visit with other nearby attractions like the Winterset City Park or the John Wayne Birthplace Museum.

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Getting There

Driving

To reach the Hogback Covered Bridge by car, start in Winterset and head east on E Court Ave. After about 1 mile, turn left onto County Road G14 (Hogback Bridge Rd). Follow this road for approximately 2 miles, and the bridge will be on your right. Free parking is typically available near the bridge.
Public Transport

Public transportation options to the Hogback Covered Bridge are limited due to its rural location. However, you can take a regional bus service to Winterset. From the Winterset bus station, use a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft, or a local taxi service to reach the bridge. The rideshare cost could range from $15 to $25, depending on the distance.

Discover more about Hogback Covered Bridge

The Hogback Covered Bridge, located a few miles northwest of Winterset, Iowa, is a testament to a bygone era of timber bridge construction. Built in 1884 by Harvey P. Jones and George K. Foster, the bridge spans 98 feet over the North River. Its name comes from the unique hogback-shaped limestone ridge located at the west end of the valley.The bridge is constructed using a Town lattice truss system, characterized by a crisscrossing web of planks reinforced with metal bolts. This design, patented by Ithiel Town, allowed for construction without heavy timbers or large stone abutments. The bridge's original wood pilings have been replaced with steel supports, and the structure was renovated in 1992.Hogback is one of six remaining covered bridges in Madison County, once home to nineteen such bridges. These bridges were essential for rural transportation, providing protection from the elements that could damage the wooden structures. Farmers living nearby often maintained the bridges to offset a county poll tax. The Hogback Covered Bridge was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1976 and remains a beloved symbol of Madison County's history.