Open year round, the Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge in Campbellford is part of the The Great Trail (formerly the Trans Canada Trail). This is the longest recreational trail in the world.
In the area of 15 Trent Drive, Campbellford, there are many opportunities to park near the Trent-Severn Waterway (TSW) Locks 11 and 12. Walk over the TSW swing bridge where you’ll see signage for the Suspension Bridge (pedestrian only access; no fee). This is the west entrance to the bridge on Ontario Hydro property; you can also access the suspension bridge from the gates to Ferris Provincial Park at 474 County Road 8, Campbellford (fee for entry).
At the west entrance to the bridge you’ll be greeted with interpretive signage showing how it was built in 2003. The structure spans about 91 metres across the high-banked walls of the Ranney Gorge. From here you can look down 9 metres through the open metalwork of the bridge to the Trent River below and Ranney Falls to the north. At the river’s edge, in the summer months, look really closely as there are sure to be turtles basking in the sun. Turtle Day at the Park in July is a good time for a visit.
On the east side of the bridge is Ferris Provincial Park. The Ranney Falls Trail offers an easy and shaded hike at the river’s edge, southbound to a picturesque boat launch where you can rent kayaks (pay at Ferris gate entrance open May-Oct), get your feet wet and picnic. There's also a playground close by. Here’s a chance to do something different – call Apollo’s Pizzeria in town and have them deliver.
If you head north from the suspension bridge on that same trail, the hike is a little more challenging with some stone outcroppings and an elevated view of the river. You can walk down some rocks to a scenic lookout at the river’s edge and the top of the falls. Narcity has a nice shot of the north side of the suspension bridge in their “Ontario’s Most Scenic Suspension Bridge” article.
Another entry point (no fee) to access the bridge from the north is at 199 Saskatoon Avenue, Campbellford. There's limited parking at this dead-end street, but this entry to Ferris Park has a lovely forested and tranquil 1km trail that leads you to the suspension bridge.
Visit these spots, within a few kms, after visiting the bridge:
- Trent-Severn Waterway Locks 11 and 12 to read the interpretive signage of how locks function. Consider asking the lock attendant if any boats will be coming through. If so, ask if you can have the thrill of pushing a button to open the locks (end of May – Oct).
- Campbellford Paddle - rent a canoe, kayak or SUP and paddle down the Trent-Severn Waterway through Locks 11 and 12. A little south of the base of 12, look back to see the suspension bridge behind you.
- Ranney Gorge Run, held annually in May – 10km, 5km and 1km routes through Ferris Park and over the suspension bridge.
- Bring your bicycle to ride the suspension bridge since it's part of the Trans Canada Trail. Ontario By Bike has a "Ride With GPS" link from their June 2019 group ride starting near the bridge westbound on a rail trail into forest, wetlands and farmland.
- Kennedy Park Splash Pad/Skate Park/Playground, 179 Saskatoon Avenue
- World’s Finest Chocolate outlet, 103 Second Street. Seconds at discount prices. Pre-made gift baskets are available.
- Empire Cheese, about 10 minutes south of the Ferris Park main gate on County Rd 8. They offer free cheese samples. Enjoy ice cream with views of farmland at the parking lot.
- Main Street, Campbellford where shopping for clothes, baked goods (hello Dooher's, Canada's Sweetest Bakery). Going back in time at Stedman’s V&S is always fun.
- Bed and Breakfasts, Inns and cottages dot the Campbellford area, with some right on the Trent-Severn Waterway.
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