Mark,
" I still have to figure how I will recess the hinge so it is below track level, and also how to make sure the track won't bind. "
The trick to making sure your track doesn't bind is to ensure that the hinge pin is above the top of the rail. That way when you lift the bridge, the first motion separates the rail. Mounting low, and the first motion closes the gap between the rails.
The hinge we used on Geezer Gorge is like:
eBay item number:
253001448111
My best suggestion is to use scenery or a structure to hide it.
