Duncan Ridge Trail - Toccoa River Swinging Bridge to Three Forks - Thu, Sep 25 2025

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Duncan Ridge Trail - Toccoa River Swinging Bridge to Three Forks


The Basics:
Event Type:Hike
Event Location: Toccoa River Swinging Bridge FS - 816.
Date(s) & Time:Thu, Sep 25 2025  8:30 am >> Thu, Sep 25 2025 4:15 pm  (Carpool Departure: 6:30 am   *log in for location*)
Registration Opens: Wed, Sep 17 2025 7:00 pm
Registration Cut Off: Wed, Sep 24 2025 6:00 pm
Event Duration:7 Hours 45 Minutes
Difficulty Rating:D6: Advanced
Distance:17 Miles
Pace:Moderate
Trip Leader(s):
Leigh B
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Member Cost:None

Participant Info:
Who's Invited: Members Only, 21 And Older Only
Maximum Group Size:11
Minimum Group Size:3
Number Registered So Far: 2 / 0 (To see who's signed up, log in to the Member Area)
Are Dogs Permitted: Yes

Itinerary:

The Duncan Ridge Trail starts at Three Forks and winds its way to Blood Mt. This section is hard but always feels good upon completion. My AI friend describes it as rugged, scenic and fairly remote. I concur. 

         Toccoa River Swinging Bridge to Three Forks

 

At 270 feet, the Toccoa River Swinging Bridge is the longest swinging bridge east of the Mississippi.

This strenuous hike will follow the DRT from the bridge all the way to the intersection of the AT. We will be climbing two mountains, Big John Dick and Little John Dick.

A quick side trail will take us to Long Creek Falls and the opportunity for lunch. After a break, we will retrace our steps to complete our out and back adventure.

We will be maintaining a moderate pace of around 2.5 mph. Normally this hike is completed by 3:30pm and is at a slightly faster pace, but I have added some extra time in to accommodate a more moderate pace as I am still building up my D6 endurance and speed from having been out so long with injuries. The hike is over 17 miles and 4200 feet of ascent and therefore is not for those without D6 experience or very recent and consistent hard D5 mountain terrain experience. Please expect a vetting e mail if your profile does not reflect this.   

I know the map reflects less distance and elevation, but its an All Trails white lie. 

Thanks to Ron J for the original map (modified write up from original)


Required Items to Bring:

Water

Food

Recommended Items to Bring:
Use our Event Checklists to make sure you have everything you need.

Hiking poles

Electrolytes. 

Sunscreen/Hat


How to Get There:
Event Directions:

We will be parking at Swinging Bridge Parking Area which is at the end of Forest Service Road 816. Turn on to the Forest Road from Hwy 60 and drive to the swinging bridge parking area. The service road is about 3 miles and I have checked that it is open and clear. 

 

https://maps.app.goo.gl/EtXqkNeULAfZ2Rb1A

Carpool to Event Distance (round trip):142Mile(s)
Carpool Departure Time: 6:30 am
Carpool Location:   Log in for location
Carpool Directions:   Log in for directions
Carpool Cost: Estimated cost per vehicle for this event is $56.80 using a reimbursement rate guideline of $0.400 per mile. The total amount should be divided by the number of people in the vehicle, including the driver. This is a guideline, not a rule, for drivers but the cost should not be higher unless there are extenuating circumstances.

Notes:


* We encourage all members to follow our Etiquette Guidelines while participating in AOC events.


Cancellation/Partial Attendance:   Please review the AOC cancellation policy.