
Diestelhorst Bridge
An iconic pedestrian bridge and functional sundial, offering stunning river views and access to miles of scenic trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour glow

Diestelhorst Bridge
Best Time
Golden hour glow
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An iconic pedestrian bridge and functional sundial, offering stunning river views and access to miles of scenic trails.
"A really cool bridge with a beautiful view. Lots of parking and very accessible to all."

🌅 Catch the Golden Hour
Visit at dusk for breathtaking views as the sun sets, casting a warm glow on the bridge and river.
🚴♀️ Bike the River Trail
Rent a bike or bring your own to explore the extensive Sacramento River Trail accessible from the bridge.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Sundial Function
The bridge itself
Experience a functional sundial, a unique blend of art and timekeeping. Witness the shadow move across the bridge as the day progresses.

Sacramento River Trail
Access from the bridge
Stroll or cycle along this scenic 35-mile trail, offering beautiful river views and connecting to various points of interest.

Architectural Marvel
The bridge structure
Admire the striking design of this pedestrian and cyclist bridge, a landmark created by artist Santiago Calatrava.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Sundial Magic
River Trail Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Catch the Golden Hour
Visit at dusk for breathtaking views as the sun sets, casting a warm glow on the bridge and river.
🚴♀️ Bike the River Trail
Rent a bike or bring your own to explore the extensive Sacramento River Trail accessible from the bridge.
🐾 Dog-Friendly Paths
Leashed dogs are welcome on the paved walkways of the Diestelhorst Bridge and the Sundial River Trail.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear comfortable shoes for walking or biking, as you'll want to explore the bridge and surrounding trails.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Catch the Golden Hour
Visit at dusk for breathtaking views as the sun sets, casting a warm glow on the bridge and river.
🚴♀️ Bike the River Trail
Rent a bike or bring your own to explore the extensive Sacramento River Trail accessible from the bridge.
🐾 Dog-Friendly Paths
Leashed dogs are welcome on the paved walkways of the Diestelhorst Bridge and the Sundial River Trail.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear comfortable shoes for walking or biking, as you'll want to explore the bridge and surrounding trails.
📸 Photography Ready
Bring your camera or phone to capture the unique architecture and scenic beauty, especially during sunrise or sunset.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Diestelhorst Bridge for its stunning beauty, unique design as a sundial, and its role as a gateway to the scenic Sacramento River Trail. The accessibility and availability of benches are also frequently highlighted as positive aspects, making it a pleasant spot for leisurely walks and bike rides.
"Beautiful fall bike ride. Lots of work has been done to beautify the area and keep it safe."
Rachelle Price
"A really cool bridge with a beautiful view. Lots of parking and very accessible to all."
Audrey Clark
"Was no shortage of benches to take a break on...most were shaded too !!!"
Kip Totherow
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Diestelhorst Bridge is located in Redding, California, and is easily accessible by car. There is ample parking available near the bridge, making it convenient for visitors. It's also a popular starting point for exploring the Sacramento River Trail.
While specific public transport routes directly to the bridge might be limited, Redding has a bus system that can get you close to the general area. It's often easier to drive or use ride-sharing services. Check with the local transit authority for the most up-to-date information.
Absolutely! The bridge is a key part of the Sacramento River Trail, which is designed for pedestrians and cyclists. Many locals and visitors enjoy biking or walking to the bridge from various points along the trail.
There are several parking areas available near the Diestelhorst Bridge, especially on the Redding side. These lots provide easy access to the bridge and the river trail.
Yes, the bridge and the paved Sacramento River Trail are generally accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, offering a smooth and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to visit the Diestelhorst Bridge or walk across it. It's a public landmark and part of the city's park system, making it a free attraction.
The Diestelhorst Bridge and the Sacramento River Trail are open to the public year-round, typically from dawn until dusk. There are no set closing times for accessing the bridge itself.
The Sacramento River Trail is a public trail and does not have an entrance fee. You can access it freely from various points, including the Diestelhorst Bridge.
While generally open, it's always a good idea to check for any temporary closures due to events or maintenance. The bridge is a pedestrian and cyclist bridge, so motorized vehicles are not permitted.
The bridge is accessible during nighttime hours, but it is not typically illuminated. For safety and to best appreciate the sundial feature, visiting during daylight or twilight hours is recommended.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can walk or bike across the bridge, enjoy the views of the Sacramento River, and access the extensive Sacramento River Trail for further exploration. It's also a popular spot for photography and enjoying nature.
Yes, the Diestelhorst Bridge is famously known as the Sundial Bridge. It's designed to function as one of the world's largest working sundials, with its gnomon (the part that casts the shadow) being the bridge's mast.
For the best experience and photography, visit during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset. The bridge also functions as a sundial, so seeing the shadow move is fascinating during the day.
Restroom facilities may be available at trailheads or nearby parks along the Sacramento River Trail. It's advisable to check local park information or plan accordingly before your visit.
While there aren't dedicated picnic tables directly on the bridge, there are benches along the river trail where you can relax and enjoy a snack. The surrounding park areas might offer picnic spots.
📸 📸 Photography
The bridge itself offers stunning angles, especially from below the arches or from the riverbanks. Capturing the sundial effect during the day and the bridge illuminated by sunset are popular choices.
Absolutely! Sunset provides a beautiful backdrop for the Diestelhorst Bridge, with warm light illuminating the structure and the river.
Drone usage is subject to local regulations. It's essential to check with the City of Redding Parks and Recreation department or FAA guidelines before flying a drone in the area to ensure compliance.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the full span of the bridge. A telephoto lens can be useful for details or shots from a distance. A tripod is recommended for low-light photography during sunset or sunrise.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting. Midday can be harsh, but it's when the sundial function is most apparent.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack some snacks and water, and make a day of it! The benches along the trail offer spots to rest and enjoy the river views. It's a great, free activity that offers both exercise and beautiful scenery for the whole family.
🚴♀️ Cyclists and Fitness Enthusiasts
Many cyclists use the bridge as a starting point for longer rides, connecting to other parts of the trail network. The scenic views and relatively low traffic on the trail make it a popular choice for those looking to stay active while enjoying the outdoors.
📸 Photographers and Art Lovers
Visiting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset will provide the most dramatic lighting. Capturing the shadow of the mast as it moves across the bridge is a unique photographic opportunity that highlights its sundial feature.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art and Engineering of the Sundial Bridge
The construction itself is a marvel, with the bridge suspended by steel cables from the mast, creating a graceful, arching silhouette. The deck is made of translucent blue glass, adding to its ethereal quality. This unique design not only makes it an iconic landmark for Redding, California, but also a testament to how art and infrastructure can be seamlessly integrated.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the bridge is a vital link in the community's recreational network. It provides access to the Sacramento River Trail, a popular pathway for locals and visitors alike, further enhancing its value as a public space.
Exploring the Sacramento River Trail
Travelers often praise the trail for its well-maintained surface and beautiful natural surroundings. You can enjoy views of the river, local wildlife, and the surrounding landscape. The trail is also dog-friendly, allowing leashed pets to join in the outdoor fun, which is a significant plus for many visitors.
Whether you're looking for a short stroll or a longer bike ride, the Sacramento River Trail offers a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty of Redding. The Diestelhorst Bridge serves as an excellent starting or ending point, providing easy access and picturesque views.
Community Events and Local Life
These events underscore the bridge's importance not just as a landmark, but as a focal point for local life and civic engagement. The presence of such events adds another layer to the visitor experience, offering a glimpse into the community's spirit and shared values.
Local businesses and residents also utilize the area, with mentions of bike rides to local coffee shops and pre-orders for meals that give back to the community, showcasing the bridge's integration into the daily fabric of Redding.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit