Bridge Ruins Hike – Florida Hiking Trails

I am constantly on the lookout for the finest hiking trails in Florida. But what does that really entail? I enjoy hiking, yet sometimes the scenery in Florida can feel repetitive with its sand, trees, and more sand and trees. However, every so often, as I journey through the state, I discover Florida hiking trails that offer something interesting to see. One such trail was the Bridge Ruins Hike.

The good news is that after doing a bit of research. While I was at Florida Caverns State Park in Marianna, Florida, I stumbled upon a trail that actually has a destination worth reaching at the end. At the conclusion of the trail, or the turnaround point, stands an old, abandoned bridge. This trail is called the Bellamy Bridge Heritage Trail. It is part of the Chipola Wildlife Management Area, and it spans approximately 1.1 miles round trip.

Getting There

To locate the Bellamy Bridge Heritage Trail, make your way to Marianna, Florida. As you travel, enter this address into your GPS to reach the trailhead and parking area: 4057 Highway 162 Marianna, FL 32446. As of my last update, access from Bellamy Bridge Heritage Trail is no longer available. Therefore, please use the address provided above to find the beginning of the trail. The trail is open every day and parking is free.

Trail Conditions

The Bellamy Bridge Heritage Trail is located within a Florida Floodplain Swamp. This means that this trail can become quite wet and certain sections may experience flooding. It’s wise to be ready for hiking through these flooded spots. Or, instead, you might want to plan your visit to this Florida hiking trail during the drier months.

Bridge History

The Bellamy Bridge was constructed in 1914, taking the place of a wooden bridge that had been located at the same site since the early to mid-1800s. During the Civil War, Confederate Soldiers protected the older wooden bridge. What remains today are the ruins of the metal bridge, which was last utilized in 1963.

Ghosts

Reports of ghosts have surfaced at this location. For many years, Florida Ghost Stories have circulated about this very spot. One particular tale features the wife of a political figure from Florida; her name was Elizabeth Jane Bellamy, and she is buried not far from the remnants of the Bellamy Bridge. Witnesses have claimed to see her wandering the trail and the swampy regions at night.

According to historical accounts and eyewitness testimonies, there are said to be other spirits haunting this trail. Some believe that the apparitions of moonshiners who perished there can be spotted. Others recount seeing the ghostly figures of a father and daughter who also met their end in that area. Additionally, some claim to observe mysterious lights flickering near the Bellamy Bridge. I’ve heard that Halloween Ghost Tours are offered for this trail, but I have yet to verify that information.

Places to Hike in Florida

If you’re in search of a trail that offers a destination to explore, then this Florida Hiking Trail is perfect for you. Keep in mind that the trail can be wet, so come prepared. Also, since it’s situated in Marianna, Florida, it tends to get quite hot. Don’t forget to pack some water. Some people refer to this area as a Florida Ghost Town, and if your goal for hiking here is to encounter ghosts, I wish you the best of luck. Personally, I didn’t see any ghosts, but I hiked during the day and relished every moment of it.