Old Cedar Avenue Bridge - Image 1
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Old Cedar Avenue Bridge

4.8
Β·131 reviewsΒ·Bloomington, United States

A repurposed bridge offering scenic river views, abundant wildlife, and paved trails for walking and biking.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Peak bird activity

CrowdLow
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Old Cedar Avenue Bridge - Image 1

Old Cedar Avenue Bridge

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Peak bird activity

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A repurposed bridge offering scenic river views, abundant wildlife, and paved trails for walking and biking.

4.8
(131 reviews)

"Great views from the bridge of a quite a variety of different wildlife and the river itself."

Vertical photo
TIP

πŸ₯Ύ Check Trail Conditions

Paths can get overgrown; check recent reports before your visit. 🚢

🐦 Bring Binoculars

Enhance your birdwatching experience with a good pair of binoculars. 🐦

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.8 Β· 131 reviews

Type

Historical Landmark

β™Ώ Wheelchair accessibleπŸ…ΏοΈ Accessible parking

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Old Cedar Avenue Bridge

The Old Cedar Avenue Bridge

Bloomington, MN

A repurposed bridge offering panoramic river views and excellent birdwatching opportunities.

Wildlife Viewing

Wildlife Viewing

Along the riverbanks and from the bridge

Spot Great Egrets, Pelicans, Herons, Eagles, and a variety of waterfowl.

Paved Walking & Biking Trails

Paved Walking & Biking Trails

Connecting to the bridge

Wide, comfortable paths perfect for strolls, jogs, or cycling with scenic surroundings.

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Trail Conditions & Accessibility

While the Old Cedar Avenue Bridge offers paved paths, some reviewers note overgrown areas. Check recent conditions before your visit, especially if you have mobility concerns. The Nature Play Area and picnic tables are nearby, but restrooms may be closed in winter.

Best for Birdwatching & Nature

This spot is a haven for birders, with numerous species spotted. The bridge provides excellent vantage points for wildlife and river views. It's ideal for leisurely walks, jogging, biking, and photography, especially during warmer months.

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Peak bird activity
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, pleasant walks
Crowd
Low
When
Summer evenings
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Looking for wooded areas in the Twin Cities to go for an evening walk with my wife

I'd love to go out to multiple spots in the Twin Cities this weekend. Where is it nice to walk for 90 minutes next to the Mississippi? What are some other spots. We've only lived here for 11 months and I will take any recommendations.

πŸ₯Ύ Check Trail Conditions

Paths can get overgrown; check recent reports before your visit. 🚢 Reddit

🐦 Bring Binoculars

Enhance your birdwatching experience with a good pair of binoculars. 🐦

reddit.com

Auto Trails in the Twin Cities, Around 1920 [OC]

Of note the Missisippi Valley Highway was never really completed south of the Old Cedar Bridge. When the state assumed control of the highways in 1921 Minneapolis business interests wanted Lyndale instead of Cedar to be the main route to the south, so a new bridge over the…

πŸ“Έ Photographer's Paradise

Ideal for capturing wildlife and scenic river views, especially during golden hours. :camerawithflash:

🚲 Great for Biking

Wide, paved trails make it perfect for a leisurely bike ride. 🚲

Tips

from all over the internet

πŸ₯Ύ Check Trail Conditions

Paths can get overgrown; check recent reports before your visit. 🚢 Reddit

🐦 Bring Binoculars

Enhance your birdwatching experience with a good pair of binoculars. 🐦

πŸ“Έ Photographer's Paradise

Ideal for capturing wildlife and scenic river views, especially during golden hours. :camerawithflash:

🚲 Great for Biking

Wide, paved trails make it perfect for a leisurely bike ride. 🚲

🚻 Restroom Availability

Restrooms may be closed in winter; portable options might be available. 🚽

What Travellers Say

4.8
(131 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Old Cedar Avenue Bridge for its beautiful river views, excellent birdwatching opportunities, and well-maintained paved trails suitable for walking and biking. Some note that certain areas can become overgrown, detracting slightly from the overall appearance. Despite this, it's highly recommended for nature lovers and photographers.

"I used to walk regularly here. But the paths have become over grown. Even the center side wall area is overrun with weeds/plants. It used to look nice here. But now looks like wild weeds. Take a look at what I mean."

Jim

"Great little trail! Paved with lots of room for people, walking, jogging, or our bikes. Great views from the bridge of a quite a variety of different wildlife and the river itself. Highly recommend if you’re looking for a place to go to walk around and see stuff. There are bathroom facilities, nearby, too, which are very well-maintained. Trails are wide and and comfortable to walk, jog or bike."

Jason Christenson

"This is by far one of the best areas for birding in the Twin Cities. I have seen Great Egrets, American White Pelicans, Great Blue Herons, Eagles, geese, wood ducks, mallards, and dozen more species of birds while visiting here. The bridge is a nice walk across the river as well."

B A

What People Like

Great river views
Abundant birdlife
Paved walking trails

What People Dislike

Overgrown paths

Frequently Asked Questions

πŸš‡ πŸ—ΊοΈ Getting There

The Old Cedar Avenue Bridge is located in Bloomington, Minnesota, offering access to scenic river trails. The trailhead parking is a key access point for visitors looking to explore the area. Reddit

The trailhead parking for the Old Cedar Avenue Bridge is a popular access point. Visitors can navigate using GPS to 'Old Cedar Avenue Bridge trailhead parking' for direct access to the trails and bridge. TikTok

Information on direct public transportation routes can be limited. It's recommended to check local transit schedules for bus routes that may get you close to the Bloomington area, followed by a short walk or ride-share. 🚌

Designated trailhead parking is available, which is often busy during peak times. Arriving early is advised to secure a spot, especially on weekends. πŸš—

Yes, the bridge is accessible from both sides, allowing for a continuous walk or bike ride across the river. This makes it a great option for a round trip or exploring different trail networks. :bridgeatnight:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no entrance fee to access the Old Cedar Avenue Bridge or its surrounding trails. It's a public park area, making it a free and accessible destination for everyone. :moneywithwings:

The bridge and trails are generally open from dawn to dusk. However, it's always a good idea to check with the local parks department for any specific seasonal hours or closures. :clock1:

No advance booking is required. As a public park, you can visit anytime during operating hours without needing to purchase tickets. 🎟️

Standard park rules apply, such as leash laws for pets and respecting wildlife. Large group events might require permits, but casual visits are unrestricted. πŸ“œ

Facilities include paved walking and biking paths, picnic tables, and restrooms. A Nature Play Area is also located nearby. Note that restrooms may be closed during winter months. 🏞️

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

This area is a prime spot for birdwatching, with sightings of Great Egrets, American White Pelicans, Great Blue Herons, Eagles, and various waterfowl. The river also supports diverse aquatic life. Reddit

Yes, the trails are paved and wide, making them very comfortable for walking, jogging, and biking. They offer a pleasant experience with scenic views of the river and surrounding nature. Reddit

Absolutely! It's considered a photographer's paradise, especially for wildlife and landscape shots. The bridge offers unique perspectives of the river and its inhabitants. Reddit

The Nature Play Area is adjacent to the bridge and offers an engaging space for children to interact with nature. It's a great addition for families visiting the area. :child:

Yes, there are picnic tables available, providing a nice spot to relax and enjoy a meal outdoors. The bridge itself also offers places to pause and take in the views. :picnic_table:

πŸ“Έ πŸ“Έ Photography Tips

Early mornings and late afternoons (golden hours) offer the best light for photography, especially for capturing wildlife and scenic river views. The soft light minimizes harsh shadows and enhances colors. Instagram

It's excellent for wildlife photography, particularly birds, as well as landscape photography of the river and surrounding natural environment. The bridge itself also makes for interesting architectural shots. TikTok

The center of the bridge provides expansive views of the river. Look for areas along the banks where wildlife frequently gathers. The Nature Play Area also offers unique photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:

A telephoto lens is highly recommended for capturing distant wildlife. A wide-angle lens can be useful for landscape shots of the river and bridge. Don't forget a tripod for stable shots, especially in lower light. πŸ“·

Drone usage is subject to local park regulations and FAA guidelines. It's crucial to check for any restrictions on drone operation in this specific park area before flying. :drone:

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