
Holliwell Covered Bridge
Step back in time at Holliwell Covered Bridge, Iowa's longest, a historic 1880 marvel and iconic film location.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring

Holliwell Covered Bridge
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at Holliwell Covered Bridge, Iowa's longest, a historic 1880 marvel and iconic film location.
"A beautiful piece of history, this bridge is a must-see for fans of the movie and history buffs alike."

🚗 Park & Walk Across
Park nearby and stroll across the bridge; you can't drive over it. Enjoy the historic architecture from within.
🚶♀️ Explore the Creek Path
Take the short, easy path down to the creek for a different view and great photo opportunities.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Holliwell Covered Bridge
Middle River, southeast of Winterset, Iowa
Iowa's longest covered bridge, a historic 122-foot structure from 1880, featured in 'The Bridges of Madison County'.

Creek Access Path
Below Holliwell Covered Bridge
A short, easy trail leads down to the Middle River for unique perspectives of the bridge and its surroundings.

Biking the Bridges
Madison County Scenic Bridges Byway
Cycle through picturesque Iowa landscapes, visiting multiple historic covered bridges, including Holliwell.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to Holliwell Covered Bridge
Best Time to Experience the Bridges
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Park & Walk Across
Park nearby and stroll across the bridge; you can't drive over it. Enjoy the historic architecture from within.
🚶♀️ Explore the Creek Path
Take the short, easy path down to the creek for a different view and great photo opportunities.
🚴 Bike the Bridges
Consider biking to visit multiple bridges, including Holliwell, for a scenic adventure.
🎬 Movie Buffs Rejoice
This is one of the iconic bridges from 'The Bridges of Madison County' film.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Park & Walk Across
Park nearby and stroll across the bridge; you can't drive over it. Enjoy the historic architecture from within.
🚶♀️ Explore the Creek Path
Take the short, easy path down to the creek for a different view and great photo opportunities.
🚴 Bike the Bridges
Consider biking to visit multiple bridges, including Holliwell, for a scenic adventure.
🎬 Movie Buffs Rejoice
This is one of the iconic bridges from 'The Bridges of Madison County' film.
📸 Capture the History
The bridge offers beautiful architectural details and scenic views, perfect for photography.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Holliwell Covered Bridge for its historical significance and picturesque setting, especially its connection to 'The Bridges of Madison County'. The ease of access, including parking and the short walk across, is frequently highlighted. Some note that while you can't drive over it, the experience of walking across and accessing the creek path is very enjoyable.
"Good little covered bridges in Madison County Iowa. You can't drive over it but there is parking so you can walk across it. There's also a short easy hiking path to go down to the creek that flows under it. That's where I got my video from."
Mr C
"Holliwell bridge Built in 1880, the bridge looks like it could still be driven on. Very nice area. Lots of history. This is the bridge from the movie Bridges of Madison County with Clint Eastwood. I can check this off my bucket list now. The water underneath was still frozen as it's Feb.8th,2025. It's a little cool, but we enjoyed it with our fur baby. Very nice piece of history."
Sylvia Valdez
"This bridge is easy to park and walk to. It was very interesting to see the beautiful architecture from the inside of the covered bridge."
Gina Powers
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Holliwell Covered Bridge is located southeast of Winterset, Iowa, along rural roads. It's part of the Iowa Scenic Bridges Byway. Many visitors access it by car, and it's a popular stop for those touring all the Madison County covered bridges.
Public transport options are very limited in rural Madison County. It's best to have your own vehicle or rent a car to reach Holliwell Covered Bridge and the other covered bridges.
The roads leading to the covered bridges are generally well-maintained gravel roads. However, after heavy rain, some sections might have minor issues, but they are usually passable.
No, you cannot drive your car over Holliwell Covered Bridge. It is preserved for pedestrian access only, allowing visitors to walk across and appreciate its historic structure.
Yes, there is parking available near Holliwell Covered Bridge, making it easy for visitors to stop, park, and explore the bridge on foot.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no admission fees or tickets required to visit Holliwell Covered Bridge. It is a public landmark accessible to everyone free of charge.
Holliwell Covered Bridge is an outdoor historical site and is generally accessible at any time, though it's best visited during daylight hours for safety and the best experience.
Visiting the covered bridges of Madison County, including Holliwell, is free. There are no entrance fees associated with these historic landmarks.
While you can explore the bridges independently, there are sometimes guided tours offered in the area, which can provide historical context and efficient routing.
The main restriction is that vehicles cannot drive over the bridge. Visitors are encouraged to respect the historic nature of the structure and its surroundings.
📸 📸 Photography
Great photo opportunities include walking across the bridge to capture its interior structure, and from the creek access path for unique angles of the bridge and river.
Drone photography can offer stunning aerial views of the bridge and the surrounding Iowa landscape. Always check local regulations regarding drone usage before flying.
Early morning or late afternoon light often provides the most flattering illumination for photography, creating beautiful shadows and highlights on the bridge.
Absolutely! The interior of the covered bridge, with its wooden beams and construction, is a key photographic subject.
Many visitors enjoy capturing the bridge from the banks of the Middle River, especially when the water is calm, reflecting the structure.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can walk across the bridge, explore the short hiking path down to the creek, and take photos. It's a peaceful spot to appreciate history and nature.
A visit to Holliwell Covered Bridge typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how much time you spend exploring the creek path and taking photos.
Yes, it's a great spot for families. The short walk across the bridge and the easy creek path are manageable for children.
Facilities are generally minimal at the individual covered bridges. It's advisable to use restrooms and pack any food or drinks before arriving.
Pets are generally welcome in outdoor public spaces like Holliwell Covered Bridge, provided they are leashed and cleaned up after.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack some snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited. The scenic drive to the bridge also adds to the adventure. Consider making it part of a larger tour of the other covered bridges in Madison County for a full day of family fun and discovery.
🚴 Cyclists and Outdoor Enthusiasts
Be prepared for varying road conditions, especially on gravel paths. Bringing water, snacks, and a repair kit is advisable. The opportunity to combine physical activity with historical exploration makes this area a prime destination for outdoor adventurers.
🎬 Fans of 'The Bridges of Madison County'
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Holliwell Covered Bridge
The bridge gained widespread recognition as a filming location for the iconic 1995 film The Bridges of Madison County, starring Clint Eastwood and Meryl Streep. This cinematic connection has cemented its place in popular culture, attracting fans of the movie and novel who wish to see these famous settings in person. The preservation of Holliwell and the other five remaining covered bridges in Madison County is crucial for maintaining the area's unique heritage and charm.
Visiting Holliwell offers a tangible connection to the past. The sturdy wooden structure, the gentle flow of the Middle River beneath, and the surrounding rural landscape all contribute to a serene and evocative experience. It’s a place where history feels alive, inviting contemplation and appreciation for the enduring beauty of these architectural marvels.
Exploring the Bridges of Madison County
Many visitors embark on a 'Covered Bridges Tour' to experience all the remaining structures. This can be done by car, taking a few hours to navigate the county's backroads, or by bicycle for a more immersive and active exploration. The Iowa Scenic Bridges Byway is a designated route that guides visitors to these historic gems.
Each bridge offers a slightly different perspective and experience. Some are more secluded, while others are closer to small towns or parks. Planning your route in advance can help you maximize your time and ensure you don't miss any of these iconic Iowa landmarks. Remember to check road conditions, especially if visiting after inclement weather.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit