The Sundial Bridge is an iconic structure that connects the northern and southern parts of Turtle Bay Exploration Park in Redding. Its northern end is dominated by one of the world’s largest sundials, whose enormous shadow tells the time. Visit the Sundial Bridge on foot or by bike to enjoy scenic views of the Sacramento River.
From your vantage point, watch drifting boats carrying anglers looking for their daily catches. Walk along the clouded glass panels that make up the bridge’s surface and spot Mount Shasta in the west.
Rising from the northern end of the crossing is the impressive 217-foot (66-meter) white mast of the sundial. Observe the shadow cast on the dial growing and shrinking with the passing of time. It is exactly accurate only on the summer solstice.
See the structure at night, when its underside is illuminated and reflects majestically on the river’s surface. Enjoy a meal or go for drinks at the adjacent Café at Turtle Bay. The site contains a shop selling all types of souvenirs and memorabilia.
Hike along the Sacramento River Trail, which runs across the bridge and continues east. It is 35 miles (56 kilometers) long and skirts both banks of the river, linking the bridge to the Shasta Dam.
The 700-foot (210-meter) crossing was designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava and unveiled in 2004. It is a cantilever spar cable-stayed bridge. Notice how the dial at the northern end uses cables to support the rest of the lopsided structure.
The Sundial Bridge crosses the Sacramento River in the center of Turtle Bay Exploration Park. Walk northeast from the city center of Redding, in northern California, to reach the bridge in about 25 minutes. On the way, see nearby attractions such as Redding Memorial Park, the Redding Civic Auditorium and Paul Bunyan’s Forest Camp. You can also travel by bus to a stop just outside the park.
