Constructed well over a century ago north of Marianna, Bellamy Bridge over the Chipola River has been the center of numerous ghost tales.
A collaboration between several agencies, the Bellamy Bridge Heritage Trail provides access to the historic structure known as one of the most haunted places in Florida.
Creek crossing in the Chipola River floodplain along the hike to Bellamy BridgeResources
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Overview
Location: Marianna
Length: 1.2 mile round-trip
Trailhead: 30.870883, -85.258052
Address: 4057 CR 162, Marianna
Fees: Free
Restrooms: No
Land manager: Florida Fish & Wildlife
Phone: 850-482-8061
Open sunrise to sunset. Leashed dogs welcome.
FWC permits seasonal hunting in Upper Chipola WMA. Be aware of hunt dates and wear blaze orange clothing during hunts.
Directions
From the intersection of SR 166 N and US 90 in downtown Marianna, head north on SR 166 N for three miles, before turning left onto Old US Road. Continue for 4.2 miles, then turn left onto CR 162. In 2.7 miles, the entrance will be on the left side of the road.
Hike
At the parking area, two roads with access gates lead into the property.
Head through a gap in the fence marked with red paint on the east side to access the heritage trail.
Trailhead gateFollowing a sandy road as it bends around a corner onto a raised bed, the trail quickly delves into deeply shaded wetlands.
A diverse mix of hardwood trees and cypress flank the trail, along with a couple of benches, offering places to relax and listen to the sounds of the swamp.
Raised road through the swampAs the path continues southward, a trailside slough becomes progressively deeper, eventually cutting across the road.
A sturdy bridge spans this flooded depression, allowing visitors to keep their feet dry as they carry on towards the river.
Wooden bridgeReaching a half mile, another slough presents a tricky obstacle as the bridge that crossed this swampy area has been compromised by flooding.
Depending on water levels, it may require wading across, or tiptoeing across a series of logs and sticks.
Tricky crossingAs the trail rounds a bend, its namesake bridge comes into view. While an impressively large structure, only the metal supports of the bridge remain.
An informative sign nearby provides historic facts about the area, and a bench sits high above the Chipola River.
Bellamy BridgeIf the river is low, it is possible to walk among large cypress trees on the bank, as the muddy waters slowly drift past and under the bridge.
From this point, return along the same route along the road to reach the trailhead, completing a 1.2 mile round-trip.
Chipola riverbankTrail Map
Explore More!
Video
A virtual walk to Bellamy Bridge
Nearby Adventures
Florida Caverns State Park A dip into Florida’s only show cave brings on an instant sense of cool. But the cave tour isn't the only delight you'll find at Florida Caverns State Park.
Blue Springs Recreation Area With a developed swimming area surrounding a first-magnitude spring, Blue Springs Recreation Area is a liquid playground in hues of blue, a broad open basin pouring forth a major spring run.
Spring Creek Park A gentle boardwalk leads to the crystalline waters of Spring Creek at Spring Creek Park in Marianna.
Baltzell Spring Made up of liquid pools of beauty on the edge of Florida Caverns State Park, Baltzell Spring is a compelling destination for spring hunters along the Chipola River in Marianna.
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