Foxfire Mountain: Hiking & Swinging Bridge Family Adventure

If you’re looking for an outdoor experience that combines stunning scenery with a touch of adventure, Foxfire Mountain in Tennessee might just be your next favorite spot. This tour offers a mix of beautiful hiking trails, impressive bridges—including America’s second-longest swinging bridge—and kid-friendly activities like obstacle courses. It’s a day packed with fun for all ages, priced at an accessible $27 per person, making it a fantastic value for a family or anyone wanting a taste of nature with a little thrill.

What really caught our eye is how much variety this experience offers—the scenic trails, the iconic swinging bridge, and the unique attractions like the Whispering Winds Covered Bridge filled with hanging wishes. One thing to keep in mind is that this is an outdoor adventure, so comfortable clothes and a camera are essentials. If you’re after a relaxed yet engaging day in nature that’s suitable for children and adults alike, this could be a great pick. However, for travelers seeking high-adrenaline activities or guided experiences with detailed commentary, some may find it slightly less structured.

Overall, Foxfire Mountain shines as a flexible, family-friendly outdoor escape that combines scenic beauty with accessible adventure. It’s a perfect outing for those who love natural landscapes and want to enjoy it at a leisurely, unhurried pace.

Key Points

• Scenic Trails & Bridges: Easy to moderate trails wind through 150 acres of forests, creeks, and waterfalls.
• Iconic Swinging Bridge: Experience crossing the 335-foot-long swinging bridge, suspended 70 feet above the river.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Inclues the Littlest Adventurer Obstacle Course and stone cairn building for fun and engagement.
• Unique Attractions: Discover the Whispering Winds Covered Bridge with wishes hanging from the ceiling, and the Lost Mine Falls.
• Great for All Ages: Suitable for children and adults, with accessible trails and exciting features.
• Value for Money: At $27 per person, it offers a well-rounded outdoor adventure with plenty of photo opportunities.

A Deep Dive into the Foxfire Mountain Experience

Setting the Scene: Nature and Adventure Combined

From the moment you arrive at Foxfire Mountain, you are greeted with the promise of an outdoor adventure that balances nature’s serenity with a dash of thrill. Covering 150 acres of lush forests, bubbling creeks, and scenic vistas, this tour invites you to explore at your own pace—whether leisurely strolling along the River Walk Trail or braving the more exciting crossings and obstacle courses.

We loved the way the trails meander past Lost Mine Falls, offering perfect spots to pause, take photos, or simply enjoy the sound of water rushing over rocks. The trails are classified as easy to moderate, making them manageable for most visitors. The uneven terrain adds a bit of challenge but never feeling daunting. If you’re visiting with children or less experienced hikers, their pace will often be relaxed, and there’s plenty to see along the way.

Crossing the Iconic Swinging Bridge

The centerpiece of the tour is the 335-foot swinging bridge stretching across Foxfire Gorge. Suspended 70 feet above the Little Pigeon River, this bridge is bound to get your adrenaline pumping just a little, especially if you’re a bit wary of heights. As one reviewer noted, “It’s as advertised—a wonderful little hike with a stunning bridge crossing that’s worth every step.” It’s the kind of experience that provides a satisfying mix of scenic views and a gentle thrill.

The bridge itself is sturdy and well-maintained, with guides or staff usually present to assist or answer questions. Walking across, you’ll be treated to views of the river below and the surrounding valleys—ideal for capturing some memorable photos. For those who prefer to stay on solid ground, there are plenty of other scenic spots along the trails.

Discovering the Whispering Winds Covered Bridge & Wishes

Another charming feature is the Whispering Winds Covered Bridge, a whimsical spot where thousands of wishes hang from the ceiling—each representing hopes, dreams, or memories. It’s a quiet moment amid the adventure, perfect for reflection or a fun photo shoot. This quirky attraction adds a touch of magic and sentimentality to the experience, making it appealing to both kids and adults.

The Fun Continues: Lost Mine Falls & Historic Sites

Along the trails, you’ll find Lost Mine Falls, a lovely cascade that’s accessible and offers several vantage points for photos or a quick rest. The hike also includes a visit to the historic Sweden Furnace Iron Mine, giving visitors a glimpse into the area’s past if you’re interested in local history. These stops enrich the experience, transforming a simple hike into an educational and scenic journey.

Canopy & Adventure Activities

One of the highlights is the tree-top canopy tour in the Evergreen Grotto. Up in the trees, you can walk along elevated bridges and platforms, experiencing the forest from a different perspective. While some reviews mention that certain activities, like zip-lining or aerial ropes courses, are not included in the base pass, the canopy walk offers a fun and safe way to see the treetops.

Children will especially enjoy the Littlest Adventurer Obstacle Course, designed to challenge their agility and coordination in a safe, on-the-ground setting. Many reviewers praise this feature, noting how it keeps kids engaged and active. Also, the stone cairn building station is a simple yet charming activity that encourages creativity and luck.

Relaxing and Picnicing

If you’re after downtime, the River Walk Trail is perfect for a leisurely stroll, with stops along Dunns Creek for a picnic or just to soak in the view. There are also comfortable rocking chairs on the porch, where you can simply sit back and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Some visitors even played games of cornhole or relaxed on the front porch, making this a well-rounded outing for families or groups.

Practical Details & Cost-Value Analysis

The $27 per person fee is quite reasonable, considering the variety of activities and scenic spots included in the pass. For this price, you gain access to the trails, bridges, waterfalls, and the obstacle course, making it a good deal especially for families. Additional activities like zip-lining, ATV tours, or the aerial ropes course are not included, but many visitors find the main features ample for a full day.

The tour lasts a full day, with check availability for starting times. The experience is flexible—you can spend as much or as little time as you like exploring the trails, crossing bridges, or relaxing.

Reviews and Real Experiences

The positive feedback from visitors highlights friendly, attentive staff—with one reviewer mentioning how staff took great care during a medical emergency after a child dislocated a knee, emphasizing their helpfulness and compassion. Guests appreciated the stunning views and the manageable trails, making it ideal for casual hikers and families alike.

Reviewers also pointed out how much they enjoyed the scenic beauty, with mentions of “wonderful little hikes,” “gorgeous views,” and the feeling of being immersed in nature. Some noted that certain attractions or animals were closed during their visit, so checking current availability is recommended.

Who Will Love Foxfire Mountain?

This experience is best suited for families with children, outdoor lovers, and anyone looking for a stress-free way to enjoy nature without strenuous hikes or high-adrenaline activities. It’s perfect if you’re after scenic views, unique bridges, and a variety of casual activities in one location. The moderate trails and safe crossings make it accessible, while the whimsical attractions add a fun twist.

Travelers who value value for money will find the $27 pass to be well worth it—especially considering the diversity of sights and activities included. However, those seeking a more intense adventure or guided tour might need to look elsewhere or add on extra activities.

Final thoughts

Foxfire Mountain offers a delightful mix of scenic beauty, accessible adventure, and family-friendly fun. The highlight—crossing the impressive swinging bridge—along with waterfalls, historic sites, and playful obstacle courses make it a memorable outing. Its affordability and variety make it a great choice for casual day trips, especially if you’re traveling with kids or want an easy outdoor activity that’s both beautiful and engaging.

Whether you’re after peaceful nature walks, a scenic bridge crossing, or some light adventure, this site delivers plenty of value in a stunning setting. Just bring your camera, comfortable clothes, and an appetite for some good old-fashioned outdoor fun.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, this experience is designed to be family-friendly. Kids will enjoy the Littlest Adventurer Obstacle Course and the opportunity to cross the swinging bridge. Just keep in mind some activities like the obstacle course are on the ground and geared toward children.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera for capturing scenic views, comfortable clothes suitable for walking, and perhaps a hat or sunscreen for sunny days. The trails are easy but a little uneven, so sturdy footwear is recommended.

Are there any activities not included in the pass?
Yes, activities like zip lining, ATV tours, aerial ropes courses, and the gorilla climbing wall are additional and not included in the base pass.

How long does the tour take?
You can spend a full day exploring the trails, bridges, and attractions, but the duration depends on how much time you want to dedicate to each activity. Check availability for starting times to plan your day.

Is there any guidance or staff on-site?
Yes, staff or guides are usually present, especially around the bridge crossings and popular attractions, and are available to assist and answer questions.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is there food available on-site?
Food and drinks are not included, so it’s a good idea to bring snacks or plan to picnic along the trails. Nearby facilities might be available outside the park.

In sum, Foxfire Mountain’s Hiking & Swinging Bridge Family Adventure offers a well-rounded, scenic, and fun day out that balances natural beauty with engaging activities. It’s a smart choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts looking to enjoy Tennessee’s gorgeous landscape without the fuss of strenuous hikes or expensive extras.