Swinging Bridge Picnic Area

Quick Facts

Amenities

5 listed

Picnic Table, Recycling, Restroom, Trash/Litter Receptacles, Wheelchair Accessible

Experience a view like none other while standing on the Swinging Bridge. Get a glimpse of Yosemite Falls and its reflection in the Merced River during the day or by full moon at night.

The first thing you may notice about Swinging Bridge is that it does not swing. Multiple years of high flood waters took its toll on the previous swinging bridge, until it was finally replaced with a permanently fixed bridge after being damaged in the 1964 flood.

Picnic tables and grills are conveniently located at this scenic spot along the Merced River that offers views of the Yosemite Falls.

The bridge was replaced after being damaged in the 1964 flood

Hours:
This picnic area is available from dawn to dusk.

Getting Here:
Swinging Bridge Picnic Area, is located on Southside Drive, several miles east of Bridalveil Fall.

Rules & Regulations:
Picnic areas are available on a first-come, first-served basis (reservations are not available).

Hazards & Warnings:
For your safety and that of wildlife:

Keep your distance from animals, even if they approach you.
Never feed wild animals.
Dispose of trash in bear-proof trash cans or dumpsters.
While enjoying your picnic, keep your food, trash, and other scented items within arm's reach.
If a bear approaches, yell as loudly as possible to scare the bear away.
Yosemite's water can be deceptively dangerous and unforgiving. Visitors are strongly urged to enjoy swift-moving or high water from a safe distance, especially in the spring.

Accessibility:
The Swinging Bridge Picnic Area features accessible picnic tables with extended tops, accessible vault toilets, and grills. Designated accessible parking spaces are available.