A spanning tree protocol traffic handling system includes a first networking device and a second networking device that is coupled to the first networking device via a first access port that is included on the second networking device. The second networking device receives a Bridge Protocol Data Unit (BPDU) frame through the first access port from the first networking device. The second networking device sends an acknowledgement that includes a BPDU stop request and that is configured to cause the first networking device to stop sending BPDU frames to the first access port. The second networking device then sets an access port state of the first access port to a forwarding state.