View of Holliwell Bridge from the creek
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Holliwell Covered Bridge

4.8
·524 reviews·Winterset, United States

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring and Fall mornings

Pleasant weather for exploring

CrowdLow
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View of Holliwell Bridge from the creek

Holliwell Covered Bridge

Best Time

Spring and Fall mornings

Pleasant weather for exploring

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.8
(524 reviews)

"A beautiful piece of history, this bridge is a must-see for fans of the movie and history buffs alike."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 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.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Holliwell Covered Bridge

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

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

Biking the Bridges

Madison County Scenic Bridges Byway

Cycle through picturesque Iowa landscapes, visiting multiple historic covered bridges, including Holliwell.

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Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Visit to Holliwell Covered Bridge

Holliwell Covered Bridge, built in 1880, is the longest of Madison County's remaining bridges. While you can't drive over it, parking is available for a walk across and to access a short hiking path to the creek below. It's a must-see for fans of 'The Bridges of Madison County'.

Best Time to Experience the Bridges

Consider visiting during the spring or fall for pleasant weather, ideal for exploring the rural roads and biking between bridges. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, allowing for a more peaceful experience.

Best Times

When
Spring and Fall mornings
Why
Pleasant weather for exploring
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Summer weekends
Why
Lively atmosphere, but busier
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Holliwell Covered Bridge, Madison County, Iowa
hanane68
13 likes • 194 views

🚗 Park & Walk Across

Park nearby and stroll across the bridge; you can't drive over it. Enjoy the historic architecture from within. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Creek Path

Take the short, easy path down to the creek for a different view and great photo opportunities. Reddit

Covered Bridges of Madison County, Iowa Holliwell Covered Bridge Built in 1880 by Harvey P. Jones and George K. Foster, Holliwell is the longest covered bridge, measuring 122 feet. It remains in its original site over the Middle River southeast of Winterset.
drmnbig_drones
11 likes • 289 views
Tour de Covered Bridges! - Back in the homeland for this fun day out! Feels great to continue to see new things in Iowa. Makes it even better to do it by bike :) Managed to snag 5/6 Madison County Covered Bridges by bike. Hope to bag them all next time… - Mileage: 52.95 miles Elevation Gain: 3,261 ft - Here are the bridges in order of completion. How you get there is up to you :) ☑️Imes Covered...
loganhoile
47 likes • 749 views

🚴 Bike the Bridges

Consider biking to visit multiple bridges, including Holliwell, for a scenic adventure. Instagram

🎬 Movie Buffs Rejoice

This is one of the iconic bridges from 'The Bridges of Madison County' film. Reddit

Holliwell Covered Bridge, Madison County Iowa #makingmemories #covered bridges
thingoldline1817
0 likes • 37 views

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. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Creek Path

Take the short, easy path down to the creek for a different view and great photo opportunities. Reddit

🚴 Bike the Bridges

Consider biking to visit multiple bridges, including Holliwell, for a scenic adventure. Instagram

🎬 Movie Buffs Rejoice

This is one of the iconic bridges from 'The Bridges of Madison County' film. Reddit

📸 Capture the History

The bridge offers beautiful architectural details and scenic views, perfect for photography. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.8
(524 reviews)

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

Historic architecture
Movie connection
Easy access and walk

What People Dislike

Cannot drive over bridge

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available near Holliwell Covered Bridge, making it easy for visitors to stop, park, and explore the bridge on foot. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Instagram

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. Reddit

Visiting the covered bridges of Madison County, including Holliwell, is free. There are no entrance fees associated with these historic landmarks. Instagram

While you can explore the bridges independently, there are sometimes guided tours offered in the area, which can provide historical context and efficient routing. Instagram

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. Reddit

📸 📸 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. InstagramReddit

Drone photography can offer stunning aerial views of the bridge and the surrounding Iowa landscape. Always check local regulations regarding drone usage before flying. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon light often provides the most flattering illumination for photography, creating beautiful shadows and highlights on the bridge. TikTok

Absolutely! The interior of the covered bridge, with its wooden beams and construction, is a key photographic subject. Reddit

Many visitors enjoy capturing the bridge from the banks of the Middle River, especially when the water is calm, reflecting the structure. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Yes, it's a great spot for families. The short walk across the bridge and the easy creek path are manageable for children. Reddit

Facilities are generally minimal at the individual covered bridges. It's advisable to use restrooms and pack any food or drinks before arriving. Instagram

Pets are generally welcome in outdoor public spaces like Holliwell Covered Bridge, provided they are leashed and cleaned up after. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Holliwell Covered Bridge is a fantastic, low-key destination for families. The short, easy walk across the bridge is engaging for children, and the path down to the creek offers a chance for a bit of exploration. It’s a safe environment where kids can learn about history and enjoy the outdoors. Reddit

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. Instagram

🚴 Cyclists and Outdoor Enthusiasts

For cyclists, the Bridges of Madison County offer an incredible route. Holliwell Covered Bridge is a key stop on many biking tours, with riders often covering significant mileage to visit multiple bridges. The rural roads provide a scenic and relatively quiet cycling experience. Instagram

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. Instagram

🎬 Fans of 'The Bridges of Madison County'

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Significance of Holliwell Covered Bridge

Constructed in 1880 by Harvey P. Jones and George K. Foster, Holliwell Covered Bridge stands as a testament to 19th-century engineering and craftsmanship. Measuring an impressive 122 feet, it holds the distinction of being the longest covered bridge in Madison County, Iowa. Its original site over the Middle River has been preserved, allowing visitors to experience it as it was intended. The bridge's enduring presence makes it a significant historical landmark, drawing visitors interested in local history and architecture. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

Exploring the Bridges of Madison County

Holliwell Covered Bridge is one of six historic covered bridges remaining in Madison County, Iowa, each with its own unique charm and history. These bridges are scattered across the picturesque rural landscape, connected by scenic byways that are perfect for a leisurely drive or an adventurous bike ride. Popular routes often include the Roseman Covered Bridge (1883), known for its prominent feature in the novel and film, and the Hogback Covered Bridge (1884), which spans 98 feet. Instagram

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. Instagram+1

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. Reddit

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