Cross The Stomach Dropping Buchanan Swinging Bridge In Virginia

Here in Virginia, most of our thrilling outdoor adventures are reserved for the mountains and the rivers. Yet there’s another adrenaline-pumping adventure that’s easily accessible and sounds unsuspecting. That is…until you see it in person. Here’s more on the Buchanan swinging bridge that you can only find in Virginia:

The Buchanan Swinging Bridge is one of the most recognizable structures in this southwestern corner of Virginia.

Al/flickr The suspension bridge is 366 feet in length and is the only of its kind to cross the mighty James River. The bridge is a Registered Historic Landmark and is owned by VDOT.

With stone structures dating back to 1897, the bridge is steeped in history, but is not the first bridge in this location.

Lindley Ashline/flickr In fact, there was once a covered bridge that spanned this exact segment of the James River. That bridge was eventually burned on June 13, 1864 in an effort to prevent Union soldiers from crossing over the river and accessing Lynchburg.

Despite the strength of this extraordinary structure, may people can’t help but feel a bit shaky at the knees when crossing over.

Lindley Ashline/flickr As soon as you set foot onto the bridge, you’ll notice a shift in the cables and you’ll probably hear a creak or two. While this is perfectly normal, we won’t blame you for turning around and staying on more solid ground!

Fortunately, there are a few rules in place to guarantee the upkeep of the bridge and more importantly, the safety of those who cross it.

Lindley Ashline/flickr

If you’re brave enough to venture out on the bridge, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the river as well as downtown Buchanan.

Melinda Young Stuart/flickr

While this suspension bridge walk may take some gusto, rest assured that the views and experience will all be worthwhile.

Lindley Ashline/flickr On a clear day, you might even glimpse fish swimming around at the bottom of the river!

Have you crossed this notoriously creaky bridge before? If so, we’d love to hear about your experiences! Parking can be accessed at 19908 Main St, Buchanan, VA 24066. For another nearby experience that’s equally unique, be sure to read about how You Can Spend The Night In A Converted Railcar In Virginia.

Al/flickr

The suspension bridge is 366 feet in length and is the only of its kind to cross the mighty James River. The bridge is a Registered Historic Landmark and is owned by VDOT.

Lindley Ashline/flickr

In fact, there was once a covered bridge that spanned this exact segment of the James River. That bridge was eventually burned on June 13, 1864 in an effort to prevent Union soldiers from crossing over the river and accessing Lynchburg.

As soon as you set foot onto the bridge, you’ll notice a shift in the cables and you’ll probably hear a creak or two. While this is perfectly normal, we won’t blame you for turning around and staying on more solid ground!

Melinda Young Stuart/flickr

On a clear day, you might even glimpse fish swimming around at the bottom of the river!

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