Sundial Bridge

Redding's Iconic Architectural Marvel

Sundial Bridge in Redding, California

Open 24/7

Always accessible for visitors

Location

Turtle Bay Exploration Park

Length

700 feet long

Access

Free pedestrian access

Planning an Event at Sundial Bridge?

The Sundial Bridge is a popular venue for weddings, photography sessions, and special events. We provide clean, reliable porta potty rentals to ensure your guests have proper facilities.

Call (530) 245-8998 for Event Rentals

About the Sundial Bridge

The Sundial Bridge at Turtle Bay is one of Redding's most recognizable landmarks and a stunning example of modern architecture. Designed by renowned Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, this pedestrian bridge spans the Sacramento River and serves as both a functional crossing and a working sundial.

Architectural Marvel

Completed in 2004, the Sundial Bridge is a cable-stayed bridge featuring a single 217-foot tall tower that supports the 700-foot span. The tower acts as a gnomon (the part of a sundial that casts a shadow), creating the world's largest working sundial. The bridge's unique design and stunning white cables make it a photographer's dream and a popular venue for special events.

Key Features

  • Length: 700 feet (213 meters)
  • Tower Height: 217 feet (66 meters)
  • Designer: Santiago Calatrava
  • Opened: July 4, 2004
  • Type: Cable-stayed pedestrian bridge
  • Special Feature: World's largest working sundial

Popular Activities

Photography

The bridge's striking architecture makes it a favorite spot for wedding photography, engagement sessions, and artistic photography.

Walking & Jogging

The bridge connects to the Sacramento River Trail system, making it popular with walkers, joggers, and cyclists.

Events & Weddings

The bridge and surrounding areas host weddings, corporate events, and community gatherings throughout the year.

Educational Tours

School groups and tourists visit to learn about the bridge's unique sundial function and architectural significance.

The Sundial Function

The bridge's tower casts a shadow on a large dial plaza on the north side of the river. The shadow moves throughout the day, indicating the time with remarkable accuracy. This unique feature makes the Sundial Bridge not just a crossing, but an interactive timepiece that connects visitors with the movement of the sun and earth.

Environmental Design

The bridge was designed with environmental sensitivity in mind. It doesn't touch the water, allowing salmon and other fish to pass underneath unimpeded. The structure also provides minimal impact on the river ecosystem while creating a stunning architectural statement.

Visiting Information

  • Location: Turtle Bay Exploration Park, Redding, CA
  • Access: Free pedestrian and bicycle access
  • Parking: Available at Turtle Bay Exploration Park
  • Hours: Open 24 hours (lighting available at night)
  • Best Photo Times: Sunrise and sunset for dramatic lighting

Event Facilities

While the bridge itself is a public space, the surrounding Turtle Bay area offers event facilities and can accommodate various types of gatherings. For events in this area, portable restroom facilities are often needed to ensure guest comfort and convenience.

Porta Potty Rentals for Sundial Bridge Events

Planning a wedding, corporate event, or photography session at the Sundial Bridge? We provide clean, well-maintained porta potty rentals to ensure your event runs smoothly.

  • • Standard and deluxe porta potty options
  • • ADA accessible units available
  • • Handwashing stations
  • • Luxury trailer rentals for upscale events
  • • Reliable delivery and pickup service

Call (530) 245-8998 to discuss your event needs!