Connecting the north and south campuses of the Turtle Bay Exploration Park is the Sundial Bridge, an iconic and captivating piece of Redding culture. Designed by the renowned Spanish architect and structural engineer, Santiago Calatrava, and completed in 2004, it also serves as the trailhead for the Sacramento River Trail. The 700 ft. pedestrian bridge spans the width of the river and never touches water, a precaution that safeguards the salmon spawning habitat below.
Although it’s only perfectly accurate one day a year, on the summer solstice, the enormous main pylon actually tells the time by casting a shadow on a large dial to the north of the bridge.
For a special experience, stroll across it at night, when the deck of the bridge is illuminated from below, creating a warm aquamarine glow. No matter when you visit, we think you’ll agree that this cultural landmark is pretty unique.
WHERE: 840 Sundial Bridge Dr., Redding (google map)
MORE INFO: 800-TURTLEBAY | TurtleBay.org
Next Up: #40 – Turtle Bay’s McConnell Arboretum & Botanical Gardens