Bellamy Bridge near Marianna, Florida.
The Bellamy Bridge Heritage Trail is a one-half mile long multi-use trail that offers access to historic Bellamy Bridge.
Located off State Road 162 just west of the Chipola River, the trail passes through some of the most beautiful scenery in Florida. Rare and endangered plant species have been identified along the path which also provides access to part of the Upper Chipola WMA, a stop on the Great Florida Birding Trail.
The trail was created as a cooperative venture of the Friends of Bellamy Bridge, Northwest Florida Water Management District and Jackson County Parks & Recycling. It was built using donated funds and labor and is an excellent demonstration of how a community effort can become a reality without using property tax dollars!
Tour group at historic Bellamy Bridge.
The highlight of the trail is the historic bridge itself. Built in 1914, Bellamy Bridge is the oldest structure of its type in Florida. It is also the centerpiece of what one recent film has proclaimed the “most haunted spot in Florida.”
Several ghost legends revolve around the bridge and trail including the story of an early 19th century moonshiner murder and the tale of a wagon driven by a headless driver. The story that brings most visitors to the bridge, however, is the fabulous tale of Elizabeth Jane Bellamy, the “Ghost of Bellamy Bridge.”
Please click here to learn more about Elizabeth’s story.
The popular Bellamy Bridge Ghost Walks – guided after dark tours – are hosted in late October of each year. This year’s events are scheduled for October 28 & 29.
Bellamy Bridge Heritage Trail is open daily, weather conditions permitting, and is free to visit. The parking area and entrance are located at 4057 Hwy 162, Marianna, Florida. DO NOT try to reach the bridge using Bellamy Bridge Road as that road no longer extends to the bridge.
The map below will provide good directions for reaching this wonderful historic site: