Androscoggin Swinging Bridge, Suspension footbridge in Topsham and Brunswick, Maine, United States
The Androscoggin Swinging Bridge is a pedestrian suspension bridge spanning the river between Topsham and Brunswick with a length of about 330 feet (100 meters). It features steel support frames at each end and a wooden walking surface held by steel cables running overhead.
The bridge was built in 1892 by a major bridge manufacturing company to serve workers at a nearby textile mill. It became an important infrastructure piece supporting the industrial growth of the region at that time.
The structure served as a daily passage for workers traveling between their homes and the mill, creating a shared experience across both towns. This connection shaped how people in the area lived and worked together.
The crossing is free for pedestrians and cyclists, with parking available on both sides of the river. Be aware that the wooden surface can become slippery in wet weather, so watch your step when conditions are damp.
What makes this bridge special is how the overhead steel cables allow the wooden deck to sway slightly as people cross. This noticeable movement is what inspired the bridge's name and creates a memorable sensation with each crossing.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
