Swinging Bridge Picnic Area: Yosemite's Scenic Retreat
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 National Park offers stunning views of Yosemite Falls and the Merced River. Despite its name, the bridge no longer swings, having been replaced after flood damage. It's a popular spot for picnics, relaxation, and enjoying the natural beauty of Yosemite Valley.
A brief summary to Swinging Bridge Picnic Area
- Yosemite National Park, 9000 Southside Dr, TUOLUMNE MEADOWS, California, 95389, US
- +1209-372-0200
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially during peak season, to secure a picnic table and parking spot.
- Bring your own food and water, as there are no vendors in the picnic area.
- Take advantage of the accessible trail for an easy walk from the parking lot to the picnic area.
- Enjoy the views of Yosemite Falls and the Merced River, and consider a swim or raft ride.
- Be aware of wildlife and follow park regulations for food storage and disposal.
Getting There
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Driving
From Yosemite Valley, follow Southside Drive. The Swinging Bridge Picnic Area is located just past Sentinel Beach and before the turn to Yosemite Valley Lodge. Parking is available in a designated lot, but it can be limited, especially during peak season. Consider arriving early.
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Public Transport
Take the free Yosemite Valley shuttle. The Valleywide Shuttle (Green Route) stops near Swinging Bridge Picnic Area. Check the Yosemite National Park website or shuttle map for the most up-to-date route information and schedules. The shuttle is free to use.
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Walking
From nearby areas like Sentinel Beach or Yosemite Valley Lodge, follow the paved bike trail along Southside Drive. The Swinging Bridge Picnic Area is easily accessible on foot. Follow signs for the picnic area.
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
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Yosemite Falls Trailhead
0.7 km
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Upper Yosemite Falls
0.7 km
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Yosemite Valley Loop Trail
0.8 km
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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
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Four Mile Trail
1.1 km
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Yosemite Valley
1.1 km
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Sentinel/Cook's Meadow Loop
1.1 km
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Sentinel Bridge
1.2 km
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Columbia Rock
1.2 km
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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
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Lower Yosemite Fall Trl
1.3 km
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Yosemite Village
1.4 km
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Essential places to dine
Yosemite Lodge Food Court
0.8 km
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The Mountain Room
0.8 km
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Village Grill
1.7 km
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The Loft at Degnan's
1.8 km
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The Ahwahnee Dining Room
2.4 km
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Curry Village Pizza Deck
2.5 km
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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
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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
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Yosemite Valley Lodge Gift Shop
0.8 km
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Yosemite Valley Lodge Bike Stand
0.9 km
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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
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Degnan's Deli
1.8 km
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Housekeeping Camp Store
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Glacier Point Gift Shop & Snack Stand
2.4 km
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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
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Curry Village Gift and Grocery
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Mountain Shop at Curry Village
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Mountain Room Lounge
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Bar 1899
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Dry Creek Bar
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Tusks Bar
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Steeps Bar
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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
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Side Door Wine Bar & Cafe
54.8 km
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Clocktower Cellar
55.0 km
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Mammoth Brewing Company
55.1 km
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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
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Black Velvet Coffee Roaster | Espresso & Wine Bar
56.1 km
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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.
