The Toccoca River Swinging Bridge
The Swinging Bridge over the Toccoa River is truly one of the highlights of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Located in the Chattahoochee National Forest, it is the longest swinging bridge east of the Mississippi River, spanning over 265 feet. A private contractor was hired in 1976 by the USDA Forest Service, with cooperation of the Georgia Appalachian Trail Club, to replace a dangerous ford in the area. Construction was completed in 1977. The bridge is about 14 miles from the start of the Benton MacKaye Trail at Springer Mountain.
To reach the Swinging Bridge from the McDonald’s in Blue Ridge, take Hwy 515 east about four miles and turn right onto Hwy 60 toward Morganton. Follow past the Post Office, turning right toward Suches/Dahlonega and go 11.3 twisty miles. After passing the Old Skeenah Mill, go .7 miles to FS816 and turn right onto a gravel road. FS816 is not really marked, but there is a “hiker sign” on the other side of the road from the turn. It’s easy to miss. Just know that if you go too far, you’ll see a redneck General Store. Don’t even ask to use their restroom—they won’t let you. You’ll have to drive another 3 miles down the road to the Deep Hole Recreation Area. That is the “put in” for the Toccoa River Canoe Trail. It’s a very pretty area with campsites and a decent bathroom that you can use. It’s probably a good idea to stop there (especially if you have kids or old people with you) since there are no facilities at the Swinging Bridge.
Once you actually find the road to the bridge, expect four miles of bumpy terrain to reach the parking lot. When my husband, John, and I visited the bridge many years ago it seemed to take forever to reach the parking lot, and I swear we had to maneuver around pot holes that a VW Bug would get lost in. But, it only took Bryan, my son-in-law, 10-15 minutes to get there. It’s still bumpy, but the road is much better than it used to be. I don’t know if I’d try it in a low sedan, but if you have an SUV, you’ll be fine. Once you park, you’ll have to hike about a ½ mile down to the river. The trail is marked with a White Diamond blaze, indicating that you’re on the Benton MacKaye Trail. Our group included my able-bodied daughter and her husband, their energetic three and five year-old daughters, and me--the plump, out-of-shape grandma with bad knees. We all made the trek just fine. While you’re heading down the trail, notice a fork to the left. That’s a great short-cut when you’re heading back to the parking lot from the river.
When you reach the bridge you will be amazed. This part of the Toccoa is particularly beautiful—with water rushing over huge boulders and the forest thick with towering pines, mature hemlocks and lots of mountain laurel. The Swinging Bridge is huge and sturdy, built of very large timbers. It sways from side to side, but be sure to cross over and explore the other side. There are many secluded picnic sites. The water is shallow, making it possible to wade out into the chilly river and play on the boulders. The kids love that! Both sides of the river are extremely popular for camping. It is unmanaged, however, meaning that there is no one to call to reserve a campsite. It’s obviously easier during the week to secure a prime spot, so plan accordingly. The fishing can be great anytime of the year. I think you’ll find it well worth the effort to visit this beautiful spot in the North Georgia Mountains.
Rainbow Cabins of North Georgia offers family vacation rental cabins – every cabin is located on a North Georgia river or trout stream.