Historic Bridge Adds Charm to This Hidden Dubuque Oasis

Dubuque is a city with more than a few amazing natural areas to discover and explore. I should know, I've been trying to visit all of them, whether it's exploring at the Mines of Spain, watching the muskrats at Deere Dike Park, or just a leisurely stroll through the Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens.

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Some of these natural areas are even "hidden" not far from bustling highways, busy businesses, or, in this case, a vital industrial park.

On this occasion, my wife and I decided to check out the trail found at the John G Bergfeld Recreation Area. Unfortunately, our trip was hampered by the appearance of Avian Influenza in the form of several dead geese. If it weren't for that, this area has it all: a great place to fish, a playground for kids, and even some relocated historical significance.

Despite that hiccup, the trail itself was a delight. Well-maintained and easy to traverse for all, it’s perfect for anyone looking for a peaceful walk, a jog, or a family outing. The path winds around Bergfeld pond, offering opportunities to pause, watch wildlife, or just enjoy the sounds of nature.

The fishing pond, complete with two jetties, is a nice touch for anglers, while nearby picnic tables and the pavilion make it easy to turn a walk into a relaxing day outdoors.

Perhaps the most fascinating feature of the park is the Dubuque & Dunleith Bridge, also known as the White Water Creek Bridge. This historic cast-iron truss bridge dates back to the 19th century and originally helped span the Mississippi River between Dubuque and Dunleith (now East Dubuque).

After decades of service and multiple relocations, including a stint in my favorite area of White Water Creek, near Cascade, it found a permanent home at the Bergfeld Recreational Area in 2010.

Walking across it is like stepping back in time: you can see the intricate cast-iron columns, the ornamental connector blocks, and the carefully preserved truss system. Any creaking underfoot is charming rather than alarming, and it gives a sense of the bridge’s long history.

From the bridge, you can enjoy a new perspective of the pond and trail, making it both a scenic vantage point and a living piece of engineering history. It could also be a nice place to fish from, if you like the vantage point.

All in all, the John G. Bergfeld Recreation Area delivers a blend of recreation, history, and natural beauty. Even with the issue of avian influenza, it’s a place worth visiting. Comfortable shoes, a camera, and an eye for nature are all you need for easy exploration. You may even find yourself lingering a bit longer than expected.