Barkers Creek Swinging Bridge

Looking for a quick roadside adventure in Whittier? The Barkers Creek Swinging Bridge offers a fun, free experience that takes just minutes but creates lasting memories. This authentic suspension footbridge sways and bounces as you walk across - and yes, that movement is totally normal and part of the fun! The bridge spans the shallow waters of Barkers Creek, providing nice views of the water below and surrounding woodland.

You can't miss this tourist attraction from the highway, and parking is straightforward in the small pull-off area. The bridge itself stretches about 100 feet across and delivers that classic swinging bridge experience, especially entertaining when crossing with friends or family (though perfectly safe for solo adventurers too). The wooden planks and cable construction give it that genuine rustic feel while maintaining modern safety standards.

Keep in mind that while the bridge itself is public, it ends at private property, so this is more of a quick stop than a hiking destination. Most visitors spend about 15-20 minutes here - enough time to cross a few times, take photos, and enjoy the gentle creek views. The bridge is accessible year-round and requires no admission fee.

Pro tips: Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photos. The bridge is most exciting (and swaying!) with 3-4 people walking across at once. Wear stable shoes, as the wooden planks can be slippery when wet. While the attraction is family-friendly, very young children should hold hands with adults due to the swaying motion and open sides of the bridge.