The Bitch Creek Trestle is the dramatic centerpiece of the Ashton to Tetonia Trail, a historic railroad bridge that carries walkers, cyclists and horseback riders some 135 feet above the valley floor in the rolling farm country of eastern Idaho's Teton Valley near Tetonia. Built in 1923 for the Teton Valley Branch of the Union Pacific Railroad and now repurposed as a recreation crossing, it's one of the most popular and photogenic features on the whole trail, delivering a genuine thrill and sweeping views of the creek far below and the Teton Range beyond.

The trestle is part of the Ashton to Tetonia Trailway State Park, a 29.6-mile rail trail that follows the abandoned grade of the old railroad. When the rail line was permanently abandoned, the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation recognized that the gentle, scenic railroad grade would make an excellent trail, and it opened to the public in 2010. Along its 30 miles it crosses three historic railroad bridges, the Bitch Creek Trestle, the Conant Creek Trestle and the Fall River Trestle, with Bitch Creek the star of the trio.

What makes the trail so appealing is its easy grade and its views. Because it follows a railroad bed, the climbing is gentle and steady rather than steep, which makes it approachable for families, casual cyclists and horseback riders alike, all while serving up stunning views of the Tetons across the valley. The trestle itself is the highlight, a high, airy crossing that rewards the ride with a look straight down into the Bitch Creek gorge.

Unlike many state parks, the Ashton to Tetonia Trail is free of charge, which makes it an easy, low-commitment outing. In winter, the same grade becomes a groomed cross-country ski and snow route in sections, extending its use across the seasons.

The trestle is high and open, so anyone uneasy with heights should know that going in, and the trail surface is old railroad grade, generally good but with loose spots, so appropriate footwear or tires help. Sun exposure is real on the open farm-country stretches.

Late spring through fall is prime for hiking and biking, with the wildflowers and green fields of early summer and the golden light of autumn both worth timing for; winter opens the Nordic use. Bring water, sun protection, and a camera, since the trestle is a genuinely spectacular photo spot. For an easy, scenic, historic ride or walk with a heart-in-your-throat crossing at its center, the Bitch Creek Trestle is one of eastern Idaho's best.