Swinging Bridge Trailhead

The Swinging Bridge Trail sits in southern Yosemite near Wawona, a short drive up from Fish Camp, and it delivers exactly what the name promises: an honest suspension bridge that sways underfoot as you cross the Merced River's South Fork. It's one of the easiest walks in the park and a favorite cool-down stop on a hot Sierra summer day.

The Walk

From the trailhead, the path to the bridge covers just 0.75 miles round trip on wide, flat ground with almost no elevation change — the trailhead sits around 4,140 feet. That makes it manageable for young kids, grandparents, or anyone who wants river scenery without a climb. Don't expect the towering granite walls Yosemite is famous for here; this is a quieter stretch of pines, boulders, and moving water.

Swimming and Safety

The real draw is the swimming hole just past the bridge, popular once the river drops and warms up in mid-to-late summer. There's no lifeguard, so you swim at your own risk, and it's best to stay out of the water entirely during spring runoff, when it moves fast and cold and is more dangerous than it looks from the bank.

Getting There

• From the Wawona General Store, continue about 2 miles to the trailhead parking lot.
• On-site facilities are limited to a porta potty; fuller restrooms and snacks are back at the store.
• Fish Camp makes a convenient home base if you're staying just south of the park.