Wawona Swinging Bridge

Continue along the road over the bridge and past the various cabins until you can drive no further. You will find a small parking lot that can fit maybe 5-10 cars. Park here and look at the higher and of the lot for a trail leading the same direction you were driving.

The first part of the trail is flat but you will soon hike down for a few minutes before leveling out again as you parallel the river. After another 15 minutes of very slight elevation gain you will bend closer to the river, it is only a little further from here.

Continue on until you see the swinging bridge. When you are about half way across the bridge you will learn why its name is so appropriate, but don’t worry because it’s very sturdy.

For those seeking a little more excitement you can walk upriver to the other side of the bridge where you will find a natural “slide” in the river where you can slide down into the pools below. Be careful if the water level is too high (or too low) and be aware that when you finish you may no longer have the backside of your swimsuit anymore; you can thank the rough granite for that.

It is hard not to spend all afternoon here, and why shouldn’t you? When you are ready to hike out make sure to Leave No Trace and pack out all trash and anything else you brought in and hike the 0.7 miles back to your car the way you came in.

Once you cross the river find a place on the rocks to put down you bags, take off your shoes (take any electronics out of your pockets) and walk to the water for a relaxing and invigorating (read: cold, but nice) swim in one of the rivers many pools.