Foxfire Mountain: Hiking & Swinging Bridge Family Adventure

If you’re looking for a day filled with stunning views, gentle outdoor adventures, and unique bridges, the Foxfire Mountain Hiking & Swinging Bridge Family Adventure offers just that. This experience in Tennessee combines scenic trails, interactive stops, and plenty of family fun for an accessible price.

From crossing America’s second-longest swinging bridge to exploring waterfalls and treetop canopy tours, there’s a lot packed into this 150-acre outdoor playground. Expect unforgettable sights, engaging activities, and a chance to reconnect with nature — all with the convenience of a single pass.

One thing to consider is that the tour is designed to be easy to moderate, so it’s suitable for most ages and fitness levels. However, some reviews hint at the importance of wearing comfortable shoes and being prepared for a day outdoors. This adventure is perfect for families, nature lovers, and those craving a blend of gentle treks and exciting bridges without a hefty price tag.

This experience made our article of 2 Top-Rated Pigeon Forge Hiking And Trekking Tours.

Key Points

• Iconic Bridges: Walk across the second-longest swinging bridge in America, offering thrill and great photo opportunities.
• Multiple Attractions: From waterfalls to covered bridges, each stop has a story and a view that adds to the experience.
• Family-Friendly: Features like the Littlest Adventurer Obstacle Course and cairn building make it suitable for kids and adults alike.
• Hiking & Scenic Trails: Trails are easy to moderate, perfect for casual walkers and nature lovers.
• Unique Features: Whispering Winds Covered Bridge with wishes, tree-top canopy tours, and creek-side picnicking enhance the visit.
• Good Value: For $27, you gain access to a range of activities, trails, and sights, making it an affordable day out.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Foxfire Mountain: An Authentic Appalachian Experience

Nestled in the heart of Tennessee, Foxfire Mountain offers a natural escape with a mix of adventure and tranquility. The park spans 150 acres of lush forests, bubbling creeks, and scenic vistas, making it an ideal spot for those wanting to enjoy the outdoors without strenuous climbs or extreme activities.

What really sets this experience apart are the spectacular bridges. The highlight is the 70-foot-high swinging bridge that stretches 335 feet across Foxfire Gorge. Imagine standing in the middle, feeling the sway beneath your feet while gazing at the rushing river below — it’s a mix of excitement and awe that appeals to all ages.

The scenic trails are well-maintained and vary from gentle creekside walks to more elevated treks through the treetops. As one reviewer mentioned, “It was a wonderful little hike in a scenic spot,” and the views truly do live up to expectations. Many hikers enjoy stopping at the Lost Mine Falls, a peaceful cascade that provides a perfect photo backdrop.

Detailed Day Itinerary and Highlights

The Swinging Bridge & Gorge Crossing

The star of this experience is the 335-foot-long swinging bridge. You’ll cross it to reach Prosperity Mountain, adding a dash of thrill to your day. Standing 70 feet above the Little Pigeon River, this bridge offers sweeping views that are both exhilarating and picturesque.

Travelers like Kristina praise the bridge: “It was as advertised. Wonderful little hike in a scenic spot.” For many, walking across the swinging bridge is a highlight that makes the whole day worthwhile. The bridge’s robust construction and the sound of the wind add to the adventure, making it accessible yet memorable.

Whispering Winds Covered Bridge & Wish Wall

A quieter, more contemplative spot is the Whispering Winds Covered Bridge, filled with thousands of wishes hanging from the ceiling. Here, visitors can slow down and reflect, or contribute their own wish as a keepsake of their trip. This feature lends a charming, almost fairytale feel to the park and makes for some lovely photos.

More Great Tours Nearby

Treetop Canopy & Evergreen Grotto

For a different perspective, the tree-top canopy tour in the Evergreen Grotto is a must. It allows you to hike among the treetops, giving a sense of being part of the forest itself. Reviewers rave about the scenic views: “Absolutely stunning and gorgeous up there,” said Suzie, describing her experience.

The canopy tour is suitable for those who want a little adventure without the adrenaline rush of zip-lining or aerial courses. It’s an easy way to see the forest from above and learn about the local flora.

Waterfalls and Historic Sites

Along the trails, you’ll encounter Lost Mine Falls, a gentle cascade perfect for photos and picnics. The park also features the Sweden Furnace Iron Mine, adding a touch of history to your outdoor exploration. Whether you’re stacking stones to create a cairn or just relaxing by the creek, these stops add a peaceful dimension to your visit.

Adventure for Kids & Families

For families, the Littlest Adventurer Obstacle Course provides a safe, fun challenge for young explorers. It’s designed to engage children without being overwhelming, earning praise from parents who appreciated the balance of fun and safety.

Reviewer Jariah called it “so fun doing all the trails,” appreciating the scenery and the chance to be active. Plus, the opportunity to build cairns or play cornhole offers laid-back ways to enjoy the outdoors.

Practical Details & Tips

What’s Included & What’s Not

The $27 pass provides access to all the trails, bridges, waterfalls, and the obstacle course, making it a pretty good deal considering the range of sights and activities. However, extras like zip line adventures, ATV tours, aerial ropes courses, and the gorilla climbing wall are not included, so if those thrill-seeking activities are on your list, you’ll need to pay separately.

How to Prepare

Travelers recommend wearing comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes — the trails are generally easy but some areas require a bit of footing. Don’t forget your camera for all those photo-worthy moments. The park is suitable for all ages, but a moderate level of mobility helps, especially when crossing the bridges or walking along the trails.

Accessibility & Group Size

The experience is designed to be enjoyable for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike, with no mention of group size limitations. It’s a self-guided experience, so you can take your time and explore at your own pace.

Best Time to Visit

Check availability for the 1-day window and plan your visit during the daytime hours when visibility and wildlife activity are at their best. The park’s natural beauty is best appreciated in good weather, so aim for a dry, sunny day.

The Real Traveler Experience: Authentic Opinions & Tips

Many visitors highlight the knowledgeable guides and friendly staff, who make the experience smooth. While the tour itself is self-guided, staff are available for questions and safety concerns, especially around the swinging bridge.

Reviewers also mention good value for money, with Kristina noting, “Definitely worth going back to and trying their other activities,” suggesting that the park offers enough to justify multiple visits.

Suzie’s experience underscores the park’s caring environment: “They took great care of us until the ambulance was there to get us to the hospital,” after her child dislocated a knee. This speaks to the park’s safety and responsiveness in emergencies — a comforting factor for families considering the adventure.

Why This Tour Stands Out

Compared to other outdoor activities, Foxfire Mountain’s combination of easy hiking, standout bridges, waterfalls, and interactive features offers a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation. It’s a place where you can enjoy stunning scenery without needing advanced skills, yet feel the thrill of crossing a lofty swinging bridge.

The $27 price point makes it accessible for most families or travelers on a budget, especially when you consider the variety of attractions included. The experience is well-suited for those wanting to enjoy nature, take memorable photos, and indulge in light physical activity.

While not offering high-octane thrills like zip-lining or ATV rides, the focus on scenic beauty and family-friendly fun makes this a solid choice for a laid-back yet engaging day outdoors.

The Sum Up: Who Is It Best For?

This adventure is perfect if you’re after a relaxed outdoor experience with a touch of excitement. It appeals particularly to families with kids, nature lovers, and anyone interested in scenic walks and iconic bridges. The affordability, combined with the range of attractions, makes it an excellent value choice.

If you enjoy easy hikes, unique crossings, and peaceful waterfalls, this tour delivers in spades. However, if you’re seeking adrenaline-fueled activities like ziplining or ATV riding, you might want to explore other options nearby.

Overall, Foxfire Mountain’s Hiking & Swinging Bridge Family Adventure offers a charming, scenic day out that balances adventure, natural beauty, and family-friendly fun — a genuine slice of Tennessee’s outdoor charm.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for young children?
Yes, the tour is designed to be family-friendly, with features like the Littlest Adventurer Obstacle Course and gentle trails suitable for kids.

What is included in the $27 pass?
The pass grants access to all hiking trails, bridges including the swinging bridge, waterfalls, the covered bridge, and the obstacle course.

Are there any activities that cost extra?
Yes, activities like zip lining, ATV tours, aerial ropes courses, and gorilla climbing are not included and require additional payment.

How long does the tour typically last?
The tour is valid for a single day. The actual time spent depends on how leisurely you explore, but most visitors spend several hours enjoying the trails and bridges.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes are recommended, as you’ll be walking on trails, bridges, and uneven terrain.

Is the experience accessible?
While designed for a wide range of ages, a basic level of mobility is helpful, especially when crossing bridges and walking trails.

Can I bring food and drinks?
The review doesn’t specify, but a picnic along the River Walk Trail or creekside is a relaxing option. Check local rules for on-site dining.

What is the weather like?
The experience is best enjoyed in good weather. Rain can make trails slippery, and high winds might affect bridge crossings.

How do I book?
Reservations are available online with the option to pay later. Check availability to confirm starting times for your preferred date.

Overall, Foxfire Mountain offers a delightful blend of scenic beauty, family fun, and gentle adventure, making it a memorable addition to your Tennessee trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: