The Swinging Bridge

Hiking

The Swinging Bridge on the Toccoa River is a very popular destination for day-hikers. Located on the Benton MacKaye Trail through hikers, and paddlers making the journey down the Toccoa River Canoe Trail, this 265 foot long bridge is the longest swinging bridge east of the Mississippi River.

In 1976 the Forest Service, along with the Georgia Appalachian Trail Club replaced a dangerous ford of the Toccoa River in this area. A private contractor built the bridge which was completed in 1977 and has been a landmark in Fannin County and a popular camping spot in Blue Ridge, GA. It is one of the most scenic river locations in North Georgia....

Directions:

  • From Blue Ridge, take Hwy 515 east to Hwy 60/Morganton
  • In Morganton, follow Hwy 60 South toward Dahlonega for 11.3 miles passing Skeenah Mill
  • Another .7 miles on the right is FS 816
  • Turn right on FS 816 and follow the gravel road 3 miles to the parking area
  • Short hike down to the Toccoa River and the Swinging Bridge