If you go

For more information, go to www.hightrestletrail.com. The closest parking lot to the trail's famous bridge is about a half-mile away, on Q Lane in Madrid. Bike rental is available at Trailside Rentals in Madrid. Call ahead to reserve (1-515-230-6712).

Where to eat: For drinks, grill grub and occasional live music trail-side, try the Flat Tire Lounge in Madrid (1-515-795-4174) and the Nite Hawk Bar & Grill in Slater (1-515-228-3500). In Woodward, Cayanne's Caf (1-515-438-2190) is a mainstay.

Where to stay: The Hotel Pattee, a one-of-a-kind gem, is in Perry, about 11 miles west of Woodward (1-515-465-3511). Two Bears Lodge Bed & Breakfast is in Madrid (1-515-795-3880).