buchanan swinging bridge

Oh what fun! Signs posted warn you - no more than three at a time- and no swaying!Just walking across is a thrill in itself. At no charge this is something worth stopping to enjoy. The view over the river is so pretty. Just 5 miles away is an entry to the Blue Ridge Parkway well known for its vistas.

Pretty cool little experience. The town isn't too big and there isn't a whole lot there but this is worth a small stop, especially if you have kids they will really enjoy it! It really does swing, but not enough to make a motion sickness person weak in the knees. On a nice clear day you are able to see fish in the river below and sometimes spot a herron in the water as well. It's a neat little attraction.

Planned this roadside attraction as a stop along our drive along I-81. Found this to be a decent place to stretch the legs, get some fuel and fill up our bellies. The bridge is just a few minutes drive off the interstate & right downtown next to shops, dining and fuel station. The bridge itself is pretty neat. It sways & bounces quite a bit with no effort. It is kind of scary since it seems kind of rickety, but I'm sure it is safe. One nice safety feature is that there is wire between the railings, so little children cannot slip through. On one end of the bridge there is railroad tracks and housing. The other side goes into town to an Exxon/Burger King right across the street & the downtown district steps away. The ramp leading down to the bridge from the Exxon side is pretty steep and on a strange angle. The other end near the railroad tracks is flat. From the bridge we could see the water & people getting into canoes along the riverbank. We didn't see any fish, but I'm sure they are in there.Overall, a decent roadside attraction. I think it is a great place to stop along the interstate to stretch your legs.

We can't take a drive up 81 or 11 without stopping in Buchanan and walking across the swinging bridge. My daughter has grown up playing on the bridge. Stand in the middle and look down at the river and pay close attention and you can spot several different species of fish - smallmouth bass, sunfish and carp for the most part. Its an easy walk from most parking areas, and make sure you also try to enjoy one of the local restaurants - get a milkshake at the Fountain Grille!

We've walked across this bridge several times on trips through the area, and it is always a fun thing to do. Not many places you can walk across a major river on a swinging bridge!

This is pretty awesome swinging or swaying bridge. It def feels a little unsafe but is a must do if you are ever in this small town. Don't expect to be there long unless you want to take in the great view of the river and mountains.

Great easy stop off of I 81 to get out of the car and stretch a big on this awesome swinging bridge across the James River - perfect for kids. . . . free!

This bridge was rebuilt some time ago after a flood, so it is relatively new. The whole town is wonderful with a classic Main Street. We used to live there and miss it.

Fun little bridge right there in town. Couldn't believe how mush it would actually swing, kinda freaked me out!

Take an extra 5 minutes to stretch your legs during a long drive here! It is quick, easy and free! Fun for kids because it looks scarier than it is. Even my most hesitant child was excitedly looking over the rail within minutes! Sturdy walkway and has a little bit of sway (not bad).

When in Buchanan, one must walk the swinging bridge. Excellent view of the river, especially when kayaks/canoes in the river. Easy to park near the river and walk up to the bridge. Ramp from the vehicular bridge to the swinging bridge is steep, but otherwise, the bridge is largely accessible. Large groups must separate to cross.

The swinging bridge in Buchanan, Va is the only swinging Bridge over the James River. It's free and takes about 5-10 minutes to park and walk. It's just off I81 on the drive up to the Blue Ridge Parkway on US route 43.