Red Bridge Knysna River
A historic 1923 red steel bridge over the Knysna River, offering scenic views, a popular cycling route, and a thrilling spot for river jumps.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Perfect for river jumps!
Red Bridge Knysna River
Best Time
Perfect for river jumps!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 1923 red steel bridge over the Knysna River, offering scenic views, a popular cycling route, and a thrilling spot for river jumps.
"It's a beautiful bridge in beautiful surroundings, perfect for a peaceful stop and a refreshing dip.
"🚗 Dirt Road Access
The road to the bridge is unpaved; drive carefully. Parking is available nearby.
🚻 No Restrooms Available
Plan ahead as there are no public toilets at the Red Bridge site.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Red Bridge
Knysna River
A historic 1923 steel bridge, refurbished and painted red, offering scenic river views and a popular cycling route.
Refreshing River Jumps
Knysna River
Brave visitors and locals leap from the bridge into the deep river for a thrilling summer swim.
Scenic Cycling Route
Connecting to Phantom Pass Road
The bridge is a picturesque part of a cycling trail, offering beautiful scenery along the Knysna River.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Accessing the Red Bridge
Best Time for a Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Dirt Road Access
The road to the bridge is unpaved; drive carefully. Parking is available nearby.
🚻 No Restrooms Available
Plan ahead as there are no public toilets at the Red Bridge site.
🏊♀️ Jump at Your Own Risk
Many enjoy jumping into the river, but be cautious and aware of surroundings.
🚴♀️ Great for Cyclists
A scenic stop on cycling routes, especially towards Phantom Pass.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Dirt Road Access
The road to the bridge is unpaved; drive carefully. Parking is available nearby.
🚻 No Restrooms Available
Plan ahead as there are no public toilets at the Red Bridge site.
🏊♀️ Jump at Your Own Risk
Many enjoy jumping into the river, but be cautious and aware of surroundings.
🚴♀️ Great for Cyclists
A scenic stop on cycling routes, especially towards Phantom Pass.
🎣 Good Fishing Spot
The river is also known to be a decent spot for fishing.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Red Bridge for its historical charm, scenic beauty, and the fun of jumping into the river. It's a free, accessible landmark that offers a unique local experience, though the lack of facilities like restrooms is a noted drawback.
"This historical landmark gem is part of a popular bicycle trail with a beautiful view from the bridge over the Knysna River. The Red Bridge was built in 1923 and refurbished in 2014. To get there, you drive on a small stretch of dirt road, park near the bridge and view. No entry fee and no bathrooms nearby. It's also frequented by youngsters who like to jump off the bride and into the river to take a refreshing dip."
Chantál Fourie
"Beautiful bridge in beautiful surroundings.
We come here often especially since they reworked on the bridge and made it safer and better as it was old and worn plus a bit of a safety hazard.
It's surrounded by beautiful scenery and the river is deep enough to jump off which we be doing in the summer and have seen people do! Also it's a good fishing 🎣 spot too.
The walk across is short to when u get to the phantom pass road but very scenic and beautiful.
It's very peaceful here so definitely take that short drive to come have a look at some history and beautiful scenery!"
James Ross
"Beautiful sight! Love the colour's of different plants growing in the water.
No restrooms though.
Free entry."
Elrinda Kluyts
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Red Bridge is reached via a short stretch of dirt road off the main route. Parking is available close to the bridge.
Yes, there is parking available near the bridge, making it convenient for visitors.
The road leading to the bridge is a dirt road, so it's advisable to drive cautiously.
Absolutely! The Red Bridge is a popular and scenic part of cycling routes in the area, especially for those heading towards Phantom Pass.
While near beautiful natural surroundings, the Red Bridge itself is a landmark and not typically described as being within a formal nature reserve. Featherbed Nature Reserve is a nearby attraction.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Red Bridge and the surrounding area is completely free.
The Red Bridge is an outdoor landmark and is accessible at any time.
No booking is required as there is no entry fee or specific visiting hours.
Unfortunately, there are no restrooms available at the Red Bridge site. Visitors are advised to plan accordingly.
The historic Red Bridge was originally built in 1923 and was refurbished in 2014.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can walk or cycle across the bridge, enjoy the scenic views of the Knysna River, and for the adventurous, jump into the river for a swim. It's also a good spot for fishing.
While many people do jump, it's important to be cautious and aware of the river's depth and any potential hazards. It's a popular activity, especially in summer.
The view from the bridge offers beautiful scenery of the Knysna River and the surrounding lush vegetation.
Yes, the vibrant red color of the bridge against the natural landscape makes it a picturesque spot for photos.
The Knysna River near the Red Bridge is considered a good fishing spot by locals.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful contrasts with the red bridge and the river.
Capture the bridge's structure, the river below, and the surrounding greenery. Action shots of people jumping or cycling can also be dynamic.
Experiment with shots from the riverbanks looking up at the bridge, or from the bridge looking down the river.
Drone regulations can vary; it's best to check local aviation rules before flying a drone in the area.
Its striking red color, historical architecture, and the beautiful natural setting of the Knysna River make it a visually appealing subject.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's important to note that there are no restroom facilities at the bridge, so families should plan their visits accordingly. The drive to the bridge involves a short dirt road, so ensure your vehicle is suitable. Despite these considerations, the free entry and the memorable experience of the river jump make it a worthwhile stop for families looking for a bit of adventure.
🚴♀️ Cyclists and Outdoor Enthusiasts
Beyond cycling, the area is great for trail walking and enjoying the natural beauty. The short walk across the bridge provides a good vantage point. For those interested in fishing, the riverbanks near the bridge are known to be productive. It’s an ideal spot for a scenic break during an outdoor adventure.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
History and Refurbishment of the Red Bridge
Over the decades, the bridge showed signs of wear and tear, posing potential safety concerns. Recognizing its importance, a significant refurbishment project was undertaken, culminating in its upgrade in 2014. This renovation ensured its structural integrity and safety for continued use, preserving its heritage while modernizing its infrastructure.
Today, the Red Bridge stands as a testament to Knysna's past, a functional piece of history that continues to be a point of interest for locals and visitors alike. Its vibrant red hue, a result of its refurbishment, makes it a visually striking feature against the natural beauty of the Knysna River.
Activities and Experiences at the Red Bridge
Beyond the adrenaline rush, the bridge is a fantastic spot for leisurely pursuits. Cyclists often incorporate the Red Bridge into their routes, enjoying the scenic beauty as they pedal towards Phantom Pass. The walk across the bridge itself is short but offers lovely views, making it a pleasant stop for a stroll.
For those seeking a more tranquil experience, the area around the Red Bridge is also known to be a good fishing spot. The combination of its historical charm, natural beauty, and diverse activities makes the Red Bridge a well-rounded destination for different types of visitors.
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