The name 'Tridge' is a portmanteau of the words 'tri' and 'bridge'.
The bridge was originally constructed in 1981 following a massive community fundraising effort by Midland residents.
It replaced a former bridge that was destroyed by the 1986 flood, though the structure underwent significant reconstruction following the major dam failures and subsequent flooding in May 2020.
The central hub design allows for equal access from three distinct directions: downtown Midland, Emerson Park, and the Chippewa Nature Center.
The bridge spans two major rivers, serving as a physical confluence point for the Tittabawassee and Chippewa river systems.
The deck of the bridge is elevated to accommodate varying water levels during the spring thaw and heavy rain seasons.
The Tridge is a unique three-legged wooden footbridge spanning the confluence of the Tittabawassee and Chippewa Rivers in Midland, Michigan. Designed as a triple-span bridge, it serves as the primary pedestrian gateway connecting downtown Midland to the Chippewa Nature Center and the Rail-Trail system. The structure is constructed primarily of treated timber and features a circular central hub where the three spans meet. It sits within the larger Chippewassee Park, which provides expansive riverfront access. The bridge serves as a landmark for regional cycling and walking routes, functioning as a nexus for multi-use trails. As of mid-2026, the area remains open to public pedestrian and bicycle traffic throughout the year.
The center hub where all three spans converge, providing a symmetrical view of the river convergence.
Bring a bicycle to fully utilize the connecting Rail-Trail system that radiates from the bridge.
Check the local weather for high-wind alerts, as the open structure can become quite breezy.
Combine your visit with a trip to the adjacent Chippewa Nature Center for extended walking loops.
Do not attempt to swim or jump from the bridge into the rivers due to strong currents and hidden debris.
Maintain right-of-way for cyclists and runners; keep pets on a leash and clean up all waste.
