This large through girder bridge crosses over a former Milwaukee Road mainline just north of Owatonna, or near the ghost town of Clinton Falls.
Originally built in 1901, the bridge is located on a large sweeping curve. This large curve is a portion of track where the Union Pacific crosses both this railroad and the Straight River.
When constructed, the bridge consisted of a main through girder span and a deck girder approach on either side. The entire bridge rests on stone substructures.
For reasons unknown, the north approach has been replaced with an I-Beam span. Judging by other damage to the structure, it is possible a derailment destroyed the previous span.
In addition to replacing the approach span, portions of the north pier and north abutment were also replaced with concrete, further indicating derailment.
Overall, the bridge remains in good condition. Some minor damage to the through girder bridge is prevalent.
Currently, the railroad below is abandoned. Since being a part of the Milwaukee Road, it has also went through the name I&M Rail Link; Dakota, Minnesota & Eastern and Canadian Pacific.
The author has ranked this bridge as being locally significant, due to the common design.
The photo above is an overview. The bridge can only safely be accessed in the fall or spring, before heavy overgrowth becomes prevalent.