Visiting the Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge in Ontario

Are you someone who loves travelling and nature and is not afraid of heights? Then, the Ranny Gorge Suspension Bridge in Cambellford, Ontario, is for you. This must-see attraction boasts spectacular panoramic views of the Trent River. It’s a destination that does not disappoint and is unexpected to find in the heart of a small community. Whether visiting the bridge during summer months or winter, the views are just as breathtaking.

Disclosure: Posts may contain affiliate links. Purchases made through our links result in a small commission to us at no charge to you. We only recommend products that meet our brand standards based on testing and first hand use by our authors.

History of the Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge

You will be amazed to learn that this one-of-a-kind pedestrian bridge was completed in 2004 by engineers in the Canadian Forces as a training project. Construction first began in September of 2002. Unlike the Collingwood Suspension Bridge, the Ranney Bridge (aka Campbellville Suspension Bridge) is of all steel construction. 55,000 lbs of steel, to be exact! The bridge can support up to 75,000 lbs, making it a safe and sturdy crossing for tourists and hikers alike. 

Just How High is the Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge?

For those of you who are not bothered by height, this impressive bridge spans 301 feet across the Ranney Gorge and hovers 30 feet above it. The bridge connects the Rotary Trail to the trails within the adjoining Ferris Provincial Park. The Ranney Falls Trail is part of The Great Trail, formally known as the Trans Canada Trail.

Where is Ontarios Ranney Bridge Located?

Situated 170 km northeast of Toronto and 250 km southwest of Ottawa in Northumberland County, you will find the small town of Cambellford. On the southern outskirts of Campbellford, off of Trent Drive, is the breathtaking Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge – south of Ranney Falls.

Is There Free Parking at the Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge?

Open year-round, parking to the Ranny Bridge is free if you use the lot at 15 Trent Drive near locks 11 & 12. From here, the suspension bridge is a short, easy walking distance. 

There is also a tiny parking lot on a dead-end street on Saskatoon Avenue, or you can use the paid parking lot inside Ferris Provincial Park, located at 474 County Road 8. Please note that the Ferris Park parking lot is open May-Oct and closed during the winter season.

Below is a Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge Map – pinned on the map are the small parking lot, the bridge and the entrance to Ferris Provincial Park.

What Can You Expect to See When Visiting the Ranney Gorge Bridge?

When visiting the picturesque Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge, you can expect a stunning 360-degree view of the Ranney Gorge, the Ranney Falls and an elevated view of the river, which is part of the Trent-Severn Waterway.

It doesn’t matter what time of year you visit Ontario’s most scenic suspension bridge. There is always something new being showcased throughout the year! For example, in the summer months, you will see fast-moving, sparkling water surrounded by lush trees and chirping birds. 

As the days get shorter and the nights get colder in the fall, the bridge provides a spectacular view of the changing foliage. The nearby foliage enhances what is already a majestic view.

In the winter, the high-banked walls of the Ranney Gorge turn into a magnificent frozen icicle wall. This icicle wall forms on the sides of the gorge and is absolutely superb.

​What Else Does the Bridge Offer?

Once you have taken in the spectacular views from the suspension bridge, you can take advantage of the 10 km trail network within the Ferris Provincial Park. One of the entry points to the park is on the east side of the bridge. An easy hike along the river’s edge also leads to spectacular views of the Ranny Falls. In the summer, this southern trail along the river is where you will find turtles basking in the sun. 

Not ready to leave yet? No worries, you can top off your day with a camping adventure at the 198.3 ha Ferris Provincial Park. So, don’t forget your camping gear, as there are over 150 tents to large trailer campsites to enjoy. Once settled, a short stroll will take you to a playground and a day-use picnic area.

Ferris Provincial Park Hiking Trails

Let’s use the suspension bridge as the starting point to access Ferris Park’s 10 km scenic trail system. After the bridge, turn left onto the Ranney Gorge Trail. This trail will lead you to a picnic area with a leash-free doggie play area and eventually into Ferris’ parking lot. 

In the opposite direction, the Ranney Gorge Trail continues along the riverside until you reach 4th Line East. The Gorge Trail is the longest recreational trail at 3.5 km, which works out to be a 2-hour hike. As you hike, you will make your way to the historic ‘sheep wash’ picnic area. 

Along the way, don’t forget to take in all the beauty of the Trent River. The trail is mostly level and an easy hike, though parts of it may be wet and slippery. Look for yellow markers along the way, and do not miss the perfectly crafted and rebuilt Ferris stone fences.

Ranney Falls Trail

Veer off the Ranney Gorge Trail to access the Ranney Falls Trail from the bridge. This 1 km trail offers picturesque views of the Trent River. In the spring, it is very muddy and somewhat slippery. As you hike, be on the lookout for a short trail that leads to a staircase. This lookout point overlooks the Ranney Falls. Be aware that this offshoot is easily missed. 

While looking, watch for the regionally rare Chinquapin Oak, distinguished by its unique saw-tooth-shaped leaves – on trees and underfoot! The Ranney Falls Trail ends at Saskatoon Drive. 

River Gorge Trail

The River Gorge Trail is a 3.5 km (2-hour) hike along the riverbank. On this trail, you will embark on the historic ‘sheep wash’ picnic area, experience the grandeur of the Ranney Gorge from the suspended bridge, and take in all the beauty of the Trent River. Best for springtime hikers, the trail is mostly level and easy, though parts may be wet. Look for yellow markers along the way, and do not miss the perfectly crafted and rebuilt Ferris stone fences.

Drumlin Trail System

In the interior of the Ferris Provincial Park is where you will find the Drumlin Trail System. This 3-looped trail system features a range of experiences – from 1.2 km (1.0 hours) on the Blue Trail to 2.5 km (2 hours) on the White Trail to 2.5 km (2.5 hours) on the Red Trail. You will wander through mature mixed forest, beside small wetlands and along seasonal creeks carved out thousands of years ago by glaciers. Along the way, you will retrace the steps of history by discovering the Ferris family’s sugar houses, shingle mill, granary, sheep pens and the old W. Cock Brickyard.

Top Attractions to Visit in Campbellford, Ontario

While in the Campbellford area, journey to Old Mill Park in downtown Campbellford, where you will find the World’s Largest Toonie! Built-in 2001, this monumental 8-metre-high replica of the Canadian two-dollar coin was created by a local artist and is still being used on the smaller versions by the Canadian Mint. This engineering feat is a brilliant example of the town’s support for its local artists. 

While at the park, take note of the large moored vessels in the summer, as Campbellville’s Old Mill Park sits beside the Trent River.

Dooher’s Bakery’s Unique Local Treat!

A must-try is a unique local treat that has tantalized taste buds for over 70 years. Dooher’s Bakery at 61 Bridge Street East, Campbellford, has been baking its decadent cream-filled doughnuts since 1949.

The cream-filled doughnut is a mouth-watering experience that you won’t soon forget. Each doughnut is affectionately created from scratch and is as unique as the customer ordering it. Be sure to get there early! These delicious treats are so popular that line-ups form and often sell out. Not to mention, their freshly made loaves are delicious.

The Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge, a Final Thought

Ontario’s Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge provides a unique and unforgettable experience that will leave a lasting impression and make you want to return. With its open metalwork design, 360-degree views, and extensive hiking trails, this landmark has something to offer for everyone. Plan a visit and create some unforgettable memories!

Bookmark this post on Pinterest for future reference!