Sundial Bridge at Turtle Bay

The Sundial Bridge crosses the Sacramento River with a translucent glass surface that lets you see the water below as you walk. A single white pylon leans backward from the north bank, holding steel cables that support the deck from above.

Santiago Calatrava designed this structure as part of an expansion at Turtle Bay Exploration Park that took place in the early 2000s. The opening occurred on July 4, 2004, marking the end of a multi-year construction project.

Walkers and runners use the crossing daily to reach trails and gardens on both sides of the river. Many visitors arrive in the evening when lighting beneath the glass deck creates a soft glow.

The crossing is open to pedestrians and cyclists, with the width of the pathway making it easy to pass others. On sunny days the glass can become warm, so solid footwear is recommended.

The tilted pylon acts as the pointer of a sundial that spreads across a landscaped garden on the north bank. On most clear days the shadow moves over marked lines and tells the time.

Location: Redding

Inception: July 4, 2004

Architects: Santiago Calatrava

Official opening: July 4, 2004

Length: 66 m

GPS coordinates: 40.59285,-122.37763

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:27