Posted in North Carolina Hiking, Nature December 05, 2019 by Robin Jarvis

Walk Across The Carolinas Border On A Daring 180-Foot Suspension Bridge On The Carolina Thread Trail In North Carolina

Now, here’s something you don’t see every day: a daring suspension bridge – much longer than half a football field – that crosses a state border. It’s not quite as long as the Mile High Swinging Bridge at Grandfather Mountain, but it’s every bit as daring (and it’s also free). Take a look for yourself:

Head over to near Waxhaw in Union County and embark on a short hike over to the state line swinging bridge that crosses Twelvemile Creek.

It's found along the Carolina Thread Trail, a 7.4-mile path that begins in Waxhaw and ends near Lancaster, South Carolina.

But hikers in search of the swinging bridge won't have far to go to reach the bridge from the Waxhaw trailhead. It's found right at a mile from the start of the trail.

The bridge has a load limit of only 12 people at once, so be weary of too many on the bridge at one time when crossing if hiking with a large group. And be sure to carve out enough time to get a selfie at the famous state line that's clearly marked with signage on the bridge. (You'll want to be on the North Carolina side in the photo — of course!)

Both states have thoroughly embraced this crossing walk connecting the Carolinas. On the North Carolina side, hikers can take a restful break on a custom-made Waxhaw, North Carolina bench.

And then over in South Carolina, there's a Lancaster County bench as well.

You may crack a smile at both states reminding hikers where their feet are planted — but once you've (fearlessly) crossed this adventurous bridge, you may welcome the opportunity to sit and collect your wits.

The Carolina Thread Trail also goes by the name of Twelvemile Creek Trail. It's a beautiful hike, should you decide to continue after crossing the bridge.

Don't want to hike 14.8 miles in one day? Bring a friend, park a car over at the South Carolina end of the trail, and then drive back to the Waxhaw trailhead. This strategy will cut the hike down to only 7.4 miles. Or, just hike the mile or so to the swinging bridge.

Haven’t heard of this daring bridge yet? The trail is fairly new. Learn more about it from our friends at AllTrails or check out the website for the Carolina Thread Trail.

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Address: 10521 Walnut Creek Pkwy, Lancaster, SC 29720, USA