If you’ve been craving a hike now that the weather is starting to warm up, I have an easy one that comes with gorgeous views. The Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge is nestled within Campbellford, Ontario, hanging 30 feet above the Trent River Gorge, with a scenic background that’s sure to be bursting with colour in the spring and summer.
Exploring Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge
Getting to the bridge from Toronto takes about two hours by car and there are a couple of different access points. The first is through Ferris Provincial Park, which comes with a daily park/vehicle fee of $12.25.
Ferris Provincial Park is closed in the winter, opening in May this year, so if you want to visit the bridge before then, you’ll need to go to the second access point. You can find the entrance of this point adjacent to locks 11 and 12 at 15 Trent Drive.
Those who are visiting the bridge are warned that they will feel slight swaying as they make their way across the 300-foot span.
Once you’ve crossed, you’ll have access to a beautiful trail system through forests and along the river, about 10 km to explore!
The history of the bridge
“The idea of a suspension bridge spanning the gorge as a way to improve viability and enhance Ferris Park was discussed and the Rotary Club of Campbellford embraced the idea,” shares Trent Hills Tourism.
The project was big, and ground finally broke on it in September 2002. 55,000 pounds of steel later, the bridge finally opened to the public in June, 2004.
Trent Hills also makes mention that since its opening, the Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge remains as the only of its kind in the province.
While the sights are spectacular no matter the time of year, I recommend making a trip back in the fall when the surrounding forest turns into a sea of autumn colours.
Don’t forget to snap some pics, Ontario!
