For covered bridge fans who plan on tracking down the Madison County Bridges, there's a pleasant surprise right in the heart of town at the Winterset City Park. One of the county's remaining half dozen historic bridges, Cutler-Donahoe Covered Bridge is found in a small valley in the city park. The 76 acre park offers the usual park amenities, such as picnic areas, stone shelters, a volleyball court, campgrounds and playground equipment. Its wooded grounds create a pleasant atmosphere, and the covered bridge and stone bridge add more elements of interest to the city park.
   For the early risers, as the park opens at 6 am, being the first on the drivable Clark Tower Loop can be an exciting place for wildlife viewing. It's possible to spot deer, turkey, pheasant and other upland critters. The Clark Tower, a 25 foot castle-like stone observation tower, features panoramic views of the Middle River Valley. The tower was built in 1926 as a memorial for Caleb and Ruth Clark, some of Madison County's first pioneer settlers. Knowing about the park loop road is often an added bonus.

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