Wawona Swinging Bridge - Yosemite National Park
This week we’re celebrating Fall in Yosemite National Park and I’m so excited to share a spot I’ve cherished for years in an area of the park that is often overlooked. Join me on an adventure across the Wawona Swinging Bridge.
Wawona Swinging Bridge in Yosemite National Park
One thing I try to avoid on my blog is sharing any “new” spot that can’t be found on other online resources. If you’re wondering why it’s because I so enjoy visiting special spots that continue to go unnamed (at least to me), which I either unexpectedly stumbled on during a time of adventure or that were shared through word of mouth by dear ones who have traveled before me. I absolutely revel in discovering spots that I haven’t heard of or can’t find detailed information on…they feel uniquely wild and untouched to me, and I love the idea that others can experience them in the same way – filled with wonder and discovery. For a long time I actually avoided posting about this bridge because it felt like such a secluded spot, but in recent years it has grown in popularity (as well as its online presence)…so today I’m sharing some of my own sweet memories here.
Wawona Swinging Bridge in Yosemite National Park
Wawona Swinging Bridge vs Yosemite Valley Swinging Bridge
You’ve probably heard of Yosemite Valley’s famous Swinging Bridge, which crosses the central fork of the Merced River and is much loved by photographers for its stunning Yosemite Falls views. Interestingly, while it’s still referred to as “Swinging Bridge,” the Yosemite Valley bridge has been fixed solid for decades and hasn’t been a swinging bridge since the 1960s. However, the Wawona Swinging Bridge crosses the south fork of the Merced and really does swing (safely)…and it’s surrounded by beautiful lush Yosemite scenery.
Yosemite Valley Swinging Bridge
Hiking
This Swinging Bridge can be reached from two trails. One option is to follow the trail from the end of Chilnualna Falls Road, which is just under a mile and a half round trip to the bridge with less than 100 feet of elevation change. The second option starts from Forest Drive and approaches the opposite end of the bridge for a round trip hike just under a mile with less than 50 feet of elevation change. It is also possible to combine these hikes for a lovely 5 mile loop hike through Wawona.
The path to the Wawona Swinging Bridge from Forest Drive
Activities
This suspension bridge spans about 40ft over the Merced’s crystal clear waters. The beauty of polished granite both under and surrounding the water is definitely part of the appeal here. In the Summer & Fall you’ll find families picnicking, wading & sunbathing along the gleaming water’s edge. It’s incredibly important to be careful here, though, and respect signs that warn about the potentially dangerous water and strong current. In the Fall one can often rock hop along the soft low flowing water, but in the Spring the Merced can be both frigid and wild, raging down past the bridge.
Wawona Swinging Bridge in Yosemite National Park
Preservation
With Yosemite’s new reservation system in place during Summer seasons, less people accessed the park than usual…but I witnessed a disheartening uptick in trash and mistreatment of natural resources inside the park. I love this bridge and the incredible Wawona area, and one of the ways we can honor these treasured spots is to be mindful of our impact on them. Always pack out what we pack in (and anything we might find along the way), and if you see something suspicious say something…you can always talk to any NPS employee or submit a tip for any NPS site anytime… call or text the IBS Tip Line at 888-653-0009.
Low Fall water levels in the south fork of the Merced River
Know Before You Go
• Spring & early Summer is a wonderful time to see wildflowers here, and in the early Fall months when the water levels recede, the small pools around the river’s edge are a popular spot to take a dip.
• There are no restrooms, trashcans, water/snacks at the bridge, so plan ahead…pack out everything you pack in.
• Always remember to adventure within your own skill and comfort level here. There are ticks & poison oak in the area, the granite can be slick in many places, and the water of the Merced here can be dangerous.
• Always check the NPS website prior to visiting Yosemite for road closures, weather information, up to date park information, and visiting guidelines.
• Please remember to take only pictures and leave only footprints. Pack out everything you pack in and stay on the designated paths. If you’re not familiar with the Leave No Trace Principles, consider familiarizing yourself with them before your trip. Please help leave this special place better than you found it, so its natural beauty can be enjoyed for years to come.
Wawona Swinging Bridge in Yosemite National Park
In Summary
Thanks so much for joining me this week in Yosemite National Park. For a virtual visit to this spot, check out my Behind the Blog Youtube video at the top of this post. Until next week, I hope you find adventure and encouragement wherever you go.
Wawona Swinging Bridge in Yosemite National Park
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About Me
I’m Dawn Marie, a travel and lifestyle blogger based out of Southern California. With in-depth articles, travel guides, and reviews on hotels & products, I seek to share my journeys to help you plan for your own. My adventures take me all over California, the western United States, and around the globe...and every Monday I post new content here, including a comprehensive blog post and YouTube video.
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