Melson Park
Discover Melson Park in Bradgate
Melson Park lies along Three Rivers Trail, just off Pilot Creek Road located 4 miles east of Rolfe. Be sure to stop at Melson Park for a brief rest or picnic lunch, and don’t forget to read about the last Indian on Indian Battle in Iowa. Continue east on the trail from Melson Park to enjoy the view from the bridge over the West Fork of the Des Moines River. Long-distance bikers or runners may continue on the trail through Humboldt County all the way to Eagle Grove in Wright County, about 45 miles from start to finish.
History records also indicate that Melson Park was the location of the Winnebago-Sioux encounter, which is known as the last battle between two American Indian tribes in Iowa. A interpretive sign is located right off the trail, next time you are there take a moment to read the inscription and soak in this historic moment that happened in our own backyard.
Here, you’ll also find a parking lot, a pit toilet, and a picnic shelter.
