Midland’s Tridge: Three-Legged Footbridge
Ever heard of “The Tridge?”
Falling in to one of Michigan’s “it-must-be-seen-to-be-appreciated” categories is this fantastic wooden footbridge, right in the middle of the city of Midland.
The Tridge is the name of this picturesque three-legged bridge spanning the spot where two of mid-Michigan’s longest rivers- the Chippewa River and the Tittabawassee River – meet.
Located in heart of downtown Midland, MI, in Chippewassee Park, the Tridge is one of the area’s most-visited tourist attractions. Opened in 1981, the Tridge is constructed with a 30-foot pillar supporting three spokes each 180-feet long.
This unique piece of architecture serves both as a natural oasis in Midland, MI as well as a functional structure, with each of the legs leading to a attraction in the city.
Explore the Parks in Midland, MI
In a city filled with beautiful outdoor spaces, The Tridge offers pedestrians access to some of the top attractions and parks in Midland, Michigan. In fact, families will find some of the best trails in Midland as well as some great playgrounds in Midland within easy walking distance of the Tridge.
Different parks, hiking trails and other attractions can be accessed by each leg of the Tridge. One leg of the tridge leads to the Chippewassee Park, a dog park and skate park; another leg leads to St. Charles Park and hiking and biking trails.
The third leg of the Tridge leads into downtown Midland, where visitors can explore the Farmers Markets or the Gerstacker Spray park, a fun spot for kids.
The Tridge is also the starting point for the Pere Marquette trail, one of the top rail trails in Michigan. Another cool thing about the Tridge? Although its primarily a footbridge, bicycles, skateboards, and in-line skating is allowed.
Hotels in Midland, MI
As home to Dow Chemical, one of the three largest chemical producers in the world, Midland receives visitors from around the world on regular basis. As a result, there are many hotels in the area, including many pet-friendly hotels.
One of the hotels near the Tridge is the highly-rated H Hotel, a luxurious spot worth checking out. While hotel quality can often be a subjective opinion, it’s worth noting that this spot offers many amenities including a shuttle service, loaner bikes and and an on-site French bistro.
Visit Midland MI
If you visit Midland for day trip or beyond, here are some spots you won’t want to miss:
Midland County Courthouse
Downtown Midland is mix of shops, restaurants and government buildings. One building you’ll want to see is the Midland County Courthouse, one of many must-see landmarks in Midland. This three-story Tudor Revival-style courthouse was named to the National Register of Historic Places in 1986.
Chippewa Nature Center
With over over 1,500 acres of forest, rivers and wetlands, this nature center is one of the largest and most prominent private non-profit nature centers in the United States. The Chippewa Nature Center hiking trails will take you through wetlands and alongside an old riverbed. You’ll also hike by a 150-year old Homestead Farm, all while viewing an wide array of birds and mammals.
Although there are no biking trails within the center, there are bike trails from the Tridge to the Chippewa Nature Center. You can also go kayaking or canoeing in Midland, there is an access here.
ADA Accessible Canoe/Kayak Launch
The accessible canoe and kayak launch is located on Chippewa River Road just west of M30. The launch is available for all to enjoy Midland’s rivers, whether they are wheelchair users, have limited mobility, trouble with balance and even those who would just appreciate an easier, smoother entry into and exit from their canoe or kayak.
There are also accessible canoe/kayak launches at the Tridge in Downtown Midland and at Sanford Lake Park. Use out guide to ADA accessible beaches in Michigan to find more spots to access water in Michigan.
Museums in Midland
Both the the city of Midland and surrounding Midland County are home to many historic sites and museums.
Alden Dow Home
Visit the home and studio of Alden B. Dow, renown architect and associate of Frank Lloyd Wright. This fascinating house was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1989 and was served workplace for Alden’s architectural firm. You’ll easily spot the influence of the Wright aesthetic in the home and it’s perfect position in the surrounding landscape.
Dow Gardens
This sprawling botanical garden set on 110-acres is home to over 1700 varieties of Michigan plants. Dow Gardens is a beautiful spot to visit any time of the year and capture natural Michigan at its best.
Art Galleries in Midland
Alden B. Dow Museum of Science and Art
The Alden B. Dow Museum of Science and Art in one of the top art galleries in Midland. This museum draws national exhibits and also features the Smithsonian Spark!Lab – an interactive invention and innovation space. This museum is currently closed due to flooding damage but may open in mid-2021.
More to See in Midland, MI
Dow Diamond
The games in Midland are on…the minor league games, that is. Try and plan your visit around the schedule of the Great Lake Loons, the feeder team for the L.A. Dodgers, and enjoy a game the the Dow Diamond.