This bridge was built as part of the Soo Line Railroad mainline across northcentral Minnesota. This rail line also crossed the Mississippi River in Bemidji, and that bridge is also a trail bridge.

When built, this bridge was over 1,000 feet long. Over time, the Soo Line filled in all but approach spans. That leaves the configuration that we see today, a truss main span, and two plate girder side spans. Major fill work was added in 1943 and 1959, with the current configuration being completed in 1964. The rail line was abandoned in 1985, and opened as an early rail to trail project in 1988.

The rail to trail program seeks to preserve historic railroad right of ways by converting them into regional trails. The trails bring in tourism. If a national emergency warrants rebuilding the railroad, the right of way is graded and ready to go.