Three weeks into the semester calls for a change: take a drive off-campus to visit The Tridge before the chill of the winter sets in.
Located in Downtown Midland, The Tridge is a three-legged wooden bridge that sits over the Tittabawassee and Chippewa Rivers. It connects different parts of the area with three legs: the farmer’s market, Chippewa Park, and two different hiking trails.
While the bridge was built in 1981, it is far from outdated. According to the City of Midland, the bridge underwent a $2.7M renovation in 2017 to replace the light system, remove old stains, add benches and so much more.
The bridge might be pretty to look at, but there’s more to do than just stare. This tourist attraction is a great way to touch grass and lower the screen-time on any phone, and it’s only 30 minutes from campus at 111 W. Main Street. The best part about it: it’s free. It’s worth a visit whether on a date, with your friends, or on your own, and The Tridge is good for so many different activities.
Picnic and games
Pack a lunch or grab cider and donuts from a cider mill to have a relaxing day at the park. Don’t forget a blanket!
Photoshoot
Find a friend with a camera to bring to The Tridge. At SVSU, many art students and photographers would love this idea to build their portfolio. There is plenty of scenery to use as the focus of a photo or the background of a portrait.
Light show
Every night, the bridge is lit up with color; however, there are a few special occasions where the bridge lights switch it up. On Holidays, there is a light show, and Halloween is arriving shortly.
Recreational Activities
The Chippewa Nature Trail and the Pere Marquette Rail Trail begin on The Tridge, so it’s the perfect place to get in some new scenery while on a bike ride or a run. If that’s not your style, there’s also a skate park located right off the bridge and a disc golf area.
Relax
College life is a stressful life, so it’s good to get a breath of fresh air every once in a while. Start your day with a slow drive to Midland. Take a walk over the rivers and find a spot under a tree to read a book or even color a coloring book.
