Swinging Bridge Picnic Area: Yosemite Falls Reflection Point
Enjoy stunning Yosemite Falls views and riverside relaxation at the accessible Swinging Bridge Picnic Area in Yosemite Valley.
The Swinging Bridge Picnic Area in Yosemite Valley offers stunning, accessible views of Yosemite Falls and the Merced River. Despite its name, the bridge doesn't swing; it was rebuilt after flood damage in 1964. It's a popular spot for picnics, relaxation, and enjoying the natural beauty of Yosemite.
A brief summary to Swinging Bridge Picnic Area
- Yosemite National Park, 9000 Southside Dr, TUOLUMNE MEADOWS, California, 95389, US
- +1209-372-0200
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early or later in the day to avoid crowds, especially during peak season.
- Bring your own food and water, as there are no vendors on site.
- Dispose of all trash in bear-proof containers to protect wildlife.
- Enjoy a refreshing swim in the Merced River, but be aware of swift currents, especially in spring.
- Take advantage of the accessible trails and picnic facilities for an inclusive experience.
Getting There
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Driving
Swinging Bridge Picnic Area is located on Southside Drive in Yosemite Valley, a few miles east of Bridalveil Fall. From Yosemite Village, head west on Southside Drive for approximately 3.5 miles. The picnic area and parking lot will be on your left. Parking can be limited, especially during peak season. Consider arriving early or using the free Yosemite Valley shuttle.
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Public Transport
The free Yosemite Valley shuttle provides convenient access to Swinging Bridge Picnic Area. Check the Yosemite National Park website or app for the most up-to-date shuttle routes and schedules. The valleywide shuttle serves all stops in Yosemite Valley, including lodges, food services, campgrounds and trailheads. Get off at the stop closest to Sentinel Beach and walk a short distance east along Southside Drive to reach the picnic area.
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Walking
Swinging Bridge Picnic Area is accessible via the Cook's/Sentinel Meadow Loop trail. From Yosemite Valley Lodge, cross Northside Drive and follow the trail south towards Sentinel Meadow. Continue along the trail, crossing the bridge over the Merced River, and follow the signs to Swinging Bridge Picnic Area. The walk is approximately 1.5 miles and offers scenic views of Yosemite Falls and the surrounding meadows.
Discover more about Swinging Bridge Picnic Area
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Four Mile Trailhead
0.4 km
Hike Yosemite's Four Mile Trail for breathtaking views of Yosemite Valley, El Capitan, and Half Dome. A challenging climb to Glacier Point!
Yosemite Valley Lodge
0.8 km
Experience Yosemite Valley from this ideally located lodge, offering comfortable rooms, convenient amenities, and easy access to park attractions.
Yosemite Cemetery
1.7 km
Discover the stories of Yosemite's pioneers in this peaceful and historic cemetery nestled in the heart of Yosemite Valley.
Yosemite Wilderness Center
1.7 km
Your first stop for Yosemite wilderness adventures: permits, maps, and expert advice in the heart of Tuolumne Meadows.
Housekeeping Camp
1.8 km
Experience Yosemite's beauty with a touch of comfort at Housekeeping Camp, offering rustic lodging and stunning views in the heart of Yosemite Valley.
El Capitan Picnic Area
2.1 km
Picnic beneath a giant: Enjoy stunning views of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park at this accessible and scenic picnic spot.
The Ahwahnee
2.5 km
Experience Yosemite's grandeur at the Ahwahnee Hotel, a historic landmark offering luxury, stunning views, and a connection to the park's natural beauty.
Curry Village
2.5 km
Experience Yosemite Valley's charm at Curry Village: lodging, dining, activities, and stunning views beneath Glacier Point.
Cathedral Rocks
4.1 km
Experience the grandeur of Yosemite's Cathedral Rocks, a stunning natural landmark offering breathtaking views and challenging climbs.
Vernal Falls Footbridge
4.4 km
Hike the iconic Mist Trail to Vernal Fall Footbridge for breathtaking views of Yosemite's powerful waterfall and stunning granite landscape.
Hanging Valley Viewpoint
4.7 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Yosemite's Tuolumne Meadows from Hanging Valley Viewpoint, where granite cliffs meet lush wilderness.
Vernal Falls
5.0 km
Explore the stunning Vernal Falls in Yosemite National Park, a breathtaking natural wonder perfect for hiking and photography enthusiasts.
Yosemite Valley View
5.9 km
Experience the iconic Yosemite Valley from this easily accessible viewpoint, offering stunning vistas of El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and the Merced River.
Half Dome
5.9 km
Conquer Yosemite's iconic Half Dome: a challenging hike with breathtaking panoramic views from the summit. Permits required.
Sub dome
6.3 km
Conquer the Sub Dome, conquer Half Dome. A challenging climb with rewarding views in Yosemite National Park.
Unmissable attractions to see
Sentinel Beach Picnic Area
0.6 km
Discover the serene beauty of Sentinel Beach Picnic Area in Yosemite National Park, where nature meets relaxation for an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Yosemite Falls Trailhead
0.7 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Yosemite Falls Trailhead in California, a must-visit for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Upper Yosemite Falls
0.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Upper Yosemite Falls, the tallest waterfall in North America, nestled in the stunning landscapes of Yosemite National Park.
Yosemite Valley Loop Trail
0.8 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Yosemite Valley Loop Trail, a stunning hiking route through America's iconic national park.
Yosemite Valley Chapel
0.9 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Yosemite Valley Chapel, a historic gem nestled in the heart of Yosemite National Park, perfect for reflection and inspiration.
Lower Yosemite Fall Trailhead
1.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Lower Yosemite Falls, a stunning hiking area in the heart of Yosemite National Park, perfect for all adventurers.
Four Mile Trail
1.1 km
Explore the breathtaking Four Mile Trail in California, where panoramic views and diverse landscapes await every nature lover and hiker.
Yosemite Valley
1.1 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures in Yosemite Valley, a national reserve celebrated for its majestic granite cliffs and stunning waterfalls.
Sentinel/Cook's Meadow Loop
1.1 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Sentinel/Cook's Meadow Loop, a serene hiking paradise in Yosemite National Park, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Sentinel Bridge
1.2 km
Experience the breathtaking views from Sentinel Bridge in Yosemite Valley, a must-see attraction for nature lovers and photographers.
Columbia Rock
1.2 km
Explore Columbia Rock: A Stunning Hiking Destination in Yosemite National Park with Breathtaking Views and Natural Beauty.
Cook's Meadow Loop
1.2 km
Experience iconic Yosemite views on this easy, accessible loop trail through Cook's Meadow, offering stunning perspectives of Yosemite's natural wonders.
Yosemite Falls View
1.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Yosemite Falls View, a must-visit attraction in Yosemite National Park known for its stunning vistas and natural wonders.
Lower Yosemite Fall Trl
1.3 km
Explore the stunning Lower Yosemite Fall Trail in California, where breathtaking views and serene nature await every visitor in Yosemite National Park.
Yosemite Village
1.4 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Yosemite Village, your gateway to California's iconic national park, rich in nature, history, and adventure.
Essential places to dine
Yosemite Lodge Food Court
0.8 km
Experience delicious meals amidst breathtaking views at Yosemite Lodge Food Court - where nature meets culinary delight.
The Mountain Room
0.8 km
Experience exceptional American cuisine with breathtaking views at The Mountain Room in Yosemite Valley Lodge.
Village Grill
1.7 km
Experience delicious American cuisine at Village Grill in Yosemite National Park - a perfect stop for hungry adventurers!
The Loft at Degnan's
1.8 km
Discover The Loft at Degnan's - where delicious pizzas meet stunning Yosemite Valley views.
The Ahwahnee Dining Room
2.4 km
Experience fine dining at The Ahwahnee Dining Room in Yosemite National Park - where culinary artistry meets breathtaking natural beauty.
Curry Village Pizza Deck
2.5 km
Savor delicious pizza in the heart of Yosemite National Park at Curry Village Pizza Deck - where nature meets flavor.
Curry Village Dining Pavilion
2.5 km
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Seven Tents Pavilion
2.5 km
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The Ahwahnee Bar
2.5 km
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Taqueria @ Meadow Grill
2.5 km
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The Skiers Grill
10.0 km
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White Wolf Lodge Dining Room
15.4 km
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The River Restaurant & Lounge
16.0 km
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Wawona Hotel Dining Room
22.7 km
Experience delectable American cuisine surrounded by Yosemite's breathtaking beauty at Wawona Hotel Dining Room.
The Restaurant at Rush Creek Lodge
26.2 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Base Camp Eatery
0.8 km
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Starbucks Yosemite
0.8 km
Experience a unique coffee haven in the heart of Yosemite National Park, where nature meets the comfort of Starbucks.
Yosemite Valley Lodge Gift Shop
0.8 km
Discover unique souvenirs and essential supplies at Yosemite Valley Lodge Gift Shop, your gateway to capturing the essence of Yosemite National Park.
Yosemite Valley Lodge Bike Stand
0.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Yosemite National Park on two wheels with the Yosemite Valley Lodge Bike Stand, an ideal adventure for all outdoor enthusiasts.
Yosemite Village Parking
1.6 km
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Yosemite Visitor Center
1.7 km
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Village Store
1.7 km
Discover the ultimate convenience at The Village Store in Yosemite Valley, offering groceries and unique souvenirs for an unforgettable experience.
Degnan's Deli
1.8 km
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Housekeeping Camp Store
1.8 km
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Glacier Point Gift Shop & Snack Stand
2.4 km
Explore the Glacier Point Gift Shop & Snack Stand for unique souvenirs and tasty snacks amidst Yosemite's stunning beauty.
Curry Village Coffee Corner
2.5 km
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The Ahwahnee Sweet Shop
2.5 km
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The Ahwahnee Gift Shop
2.5 km
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Curry Village Gift and Grocery
2.5 km
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Mountain Shop at Curry Village
2.5 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Mountain Room Lounge
0.8 km
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Bar 1899
2.5 km
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Dry Creek Bar
50.2 km
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Tusks Bar
50.4 km
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Steeps Bar
51.1 km
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Basin Bar
52.1 km
Unwind at Basin Bar in Mammoth Lakes, where friendly vibes and local brews blend seamlessly for an unforgettable après-adventure experience.
Grizzly Bar
53.5 km
Experience the warmth and charm of Grizzly Bar, a cozy destination in Mammoth Lakes offering delicious American cuisine and refreshing drinks.
Side Door Wine Bar & Cafe
54.8 km
Discover the perfect blend of exquisite wines and delightful cuisine at Side Door Wine Bar & Cafe in Mammoth Lakes, California.
Clocktower Cellar
55.0 km
Discover the charm of Clocktower Cellar, a cozy bar and restaurant in Mammoth Lakes, offering fine wines, delicious food, and a warm atmosphere.
Mammoth Brewing Company
55.1 km
Experience the best of Mammoth Lakes at Mammoth Brewing Company, where craft beer meets breathtaking scenery and great food.
Salsa's
55.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Salsa's in Mammoth Lakes, offering a fantastic drink selection and lively atmosphere amidst breathtaking mountain views.
Liberty Sports Bar and Grill
56.0 km
Experience the best of American cuisine and lively sports atmosphere at Liberty Sports Bar and Grill in Mammoth Lakes.
Black Velvet Coffee Roaster | Espresso & Wine Bar
56.1 km
Discover Black Velvet Coffee Roaster, a delightful espresso bar in Mammoth Lakes offering artisanal coffees and exquisite wines in a cozy atmosphere.
The Shed | Wine & Charcuterie
56.2 km
Experience the perfect blend of exquisite wines and artisanal charcuterie at The Shed | Wine & Charcuterie in Mammoth Lakes, CA.
Distant Brewing
56.7 km
Discover the best of craft brews and delicious American cuisine at Distant Brewing in Mammoth Lakes, the perfect spot for beer lovers.
