In celebration of Indiana’s 2016 Bicentennial, 15 geocaches have been placed throughout St. Joseph County near historic sites or places of interest. It is our goal to highlight interesting areas in the county, as well as to introduce new cachers to the hobby.
The Darden Road Bridge, originally known as Four Mile Bridge, was erected on what is now LaSalle Street in South Bend in 1885. In 1906 the bridge was dismantled and floated four miles down the river to its current location. The bridge was used for traffic until 1939, when it was closed due to a perceptible sag when it was loaded. It reopened in 1940 but was closed again in 1952 due to its poor condition; only light vehicles were allowed to cross the bridge at their own risk. In 1970 the bridge was closed to all vehicular traffic after the opening of the Cleveland Road Bridge, one-half mile south. The bridge, however, has remained a vital pedestrian crossing since its closing and now has new life as part of the South Bend Riverwalk.
In 1978 the Darden Road Bridge was declared a County Landmark because of its importance to St. Joseph County as an example of a late 19th century iron truss bridge, and for the major role it had in South Bend and St. Joseph County's early transportation history. This is the only known truss bridge remaining in St. Joseph County, which has fortunately been preserved in recognition of the rich heritage and beauty provided by this historic metal truss bridge.
A parking area, along with benches, picnic tables, and boat launch, is available at the coordinates provided on the west side of the river, south of Darden Road. Please use caution if you are exploring around the bridge supports.