Columbus Junction, IA

Columbus Junction grew at a literal crossroads: first where two railroad lines met, and now where the Iowa and Cedar Rivers come together in Louisa County. The river setting gives the town steep, wooded ravines, and the local landmark is the 1922 Swinging Bridge just south of Highway 92. It is a 262-foot suspension footbridge built to connect Third and Fourth streets, and yes, it still moves when people cross it. Downtown sits close by, with the railroad, farming, and industrial story still visible in the town’s layout. For the quick local read, start at the bridge, then follow the streets back toward the river.