
Ocean to Ocean Bridge Yuma Arizona
Walk across the 1915 Ocean to Ocean Bridge, a historic link over the Colorado River, and enjoy scenic wetland parks and river floats.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps

Ocean to Ocean Bridge Yuma Arizona
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Walk across the 1915 Ocean to Ocean Bridge, a historic link over the Colorado River, and enjoy scenic wetland parks and river floats.
"A cool part of American history you can walk across it if you want."

🚶 Walk the Bridge
Take a stroll across the historic Ocean to Ocean Bridge for great views and a sense of history. :athletic_shoe:
☀️ River Float Fun
Rent tubes for a relaxing float down the Colorado River, a popular local activity. :tube:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Ocean to Ocean Bridge
Colorado River, Yuma, Arizona
Walk across this 1915 marvel, the first highway bridge over the Colorado River, connecting Arizona and California.
Colorado River Float
East Wetlands to West Wetlands
Enjoy a scenic 1-3 hour float down the Colorado River, passing under the iconic bridge.
Restored Wetlands Park
Yuma East and West Wetlands
Explore beautifully restored parks with trails offering great views and a peaceful escape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to the Ocean to Ocean Bridge
River Activities & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶 Walk the Bridge
Take a stroll across the historic Ocean to Ocean Bridge for great views and a sense of history. :athletic_shoe:
☀️ River Float Fun
Rent tubes for a relaxing float down the Colorado River, a popular local activity. :tube:
🏞️ Explore the Wetlands
Enjoy the restored parks and trails for a peaceful nature experience. :hiking_boot:
📸 Capture the History
The bridge and river offer fantastic photo opportunities, especially with new lighting. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶 Walk the Bridge
Take a stroll across the historic Ocean to Ocean Bridge for great views and a sense of history. :athletic_shoe:
☀️ River Float Fun
Rent tubes for a relaxing float down the Colorado River, a popular local activity. :tube:
🏞️ Explore the Wetlands
Enjoy the restored parks and trails for a peaceful nature experience. :hiking_boot:
📸 Capture the History
The bridge and river offer fantastic photo opportunities, especially with new lighting. :camerawithflash:
🚗 Parking Advice
Park at East Wetlands for a 2-hour float or West Wetlands for a 3-hour float. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Ocean to Ocean Bridge as a significant historical landmark and a gateway to enjoyable Colorado River activities. Many appreciate the restored wetland parks and the opportunity for a scenic float. While the bridge itself is a point of interest, the surrounding natural beauty and recreational potential are frequently highlighted as major draws.
"Was fun going back and forth but one side goes then the other direction goes.
Somewhat tedious. Nice view and great restored park and trails.
Well done"
Steve
"We floated under it! Started at East wetlands and ended up at west wetlands. Takes about an hour. Nice float!!"
Saunie H.
"Hadn't been out to the river in a long time and decided to go with my boys and service dog to check it out... Had a fun time... Glad I agreed to go."
Anna Adkins (Daughter*of*God#777)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Ocean to Ocean Bridge is located over the Colorado River, connecting Yuma, Arizona, with Winterhaven, California. Access points are typically from the East Wetlands Park on the Arizona side or West Wetlands Park on the California side. Driving is the most common way to reach the area, with parking available at both wetland parks.
Public transportation options directly to the bridge are limited. It's best to drive or use ride-sharing services to reach the East or West Wetlands parks, which provide access to the bridge and river.
Parking is available at both the East Wetlands Park (Yuma side) and West Wetlands Park (Winterhaven side). These parks offer convenient access for walking the bridge or launching for river activities.
Yes, you can walk across the historic Ocean to Ocean Bridge. It's a popular activity for visitors to experience the structure and enjoy the views of the Colorado River.
The bridge itself and the restored wetland parks are generally considered safe for visitors. However, like any public area, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to visit or walk across the Ocean to Ocean Bridge. Access to the bridge and the surrounding wetland parks is generally free.
The bridge and surrounding parks are typically open during daylight hours. Specific hours for the East and West Wetlands parks may vary, but they are generally accessible from early morning to late afternoon.
While accessing the bridge and parks is free, there may be fees for tube rentals or shuttle services if you plan to float down the Colorado River. These services are often provided by local outfitters.
Yes, you can bring your own tubes for floating down the Colorado River. Some outfitters also offer inflation services for a small fee.
The Yuma East Wetlands, which provides access to the bridge and river, is generally free to enter and explore.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can walk across the historic bridge, enjoy scenic views of the Colorado River, explore the restored East and West Wetlands parks with their trails, and participate in river activities like tubing.
Many visitors enjoy floating down the Colorado River in tubes. You can start at East Wetlands and float to West Wetlands, a trip that typically takes about an hour.
Absolutely! The Ocean to Ocean Bridge is a landmark with historical significance, and recent lighting upgrades enhance its visual appeal. The river and wetlands also provide beautiful backdrops for photography.
The restored wetlands are habitats for various bird species and other local wildlife, making it a great spot for nature observation.
The bridge surface is generally paved, making it accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. The wetland parks also have trails that are often accessible.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Directly at the bridge or in the immediate wetland areas, food options are limited. However, Yuma and Winterhaven have numerous restaurants, cafes, and fast-food establishments a short drive away.
Yes, picnic areas are available within the East and West Wetlands parks, making it a great spot for a meal with a view of the river and bridge.
There have been reports of food trucks operating in the vicinity, though their presence can be sporadic. It's advisable to check local listings or social media for current availability.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. The new lighting on the bridge also makes evening and night photography appealing.
The bridge itself, the Colorado River, and the surrounding wetland landscapes are all excellent subjects. Shots from both the Arizona and California sides offer different perspectives.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions on personal photography at the bridge or in the public parks. However, commercial photography might require permits.
Drone usage is subject to FAA regulations and local park rules. It's essential to check current regulations before flying a drone in the area.
Its historical significance, unique architecture, and its role as a connector between states make it a compelling subject. The river and natural surroundings add to its photographic appeal.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of water, sunscreen, and snacks, as amenities directly at the bridge are limited. The restored wetlands provide a safe and engaging environment for children to connect with nature. Consider a shorter float or simply enjoying the parks if younger children might find a longer river trip challenging.
🏞️ Nature Lovers & Photographers
Photographers will find the Ocean to Ocean Bridge a compelling subject, especially with its recent lighting upgrades. The river, the bridge's architecture, and the natural landscapes create diverse photographic opportunities. Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best natural light, while the illuminated bridge offers a unique evening shot.
🚶 History Buffs
Take time to appreciate the engineering and historical significance of the bridge. Consider researching its construction and role in regional transportation to enhance your visit. The bridge stands as a testament to early 20th-century infrastructure achievements.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of the Ocean to Ocean Bridge
For decades, the bridge was a primary artery for cross-state travel. While newer bridges have since been constructed to handle modern traffic volumes, the Ocean to Ocean Bridge remains a cherished symbol of Yuma's past. It has been the subject of restoration efforts, ensuring its preservation for future generations to appreciate its historical and architectural significance. The bridge's enduring presence is a reminder of the challenges and triumphs of early 20th-century infrastructure development.
Today, the bridge is a popular spot for visitors to walk across, offering a tangible connection to history. Its iconic status is further enhanced by its inclusion in local lore and its use as a backdrop for various events and photoshoots, as seen in social media content. The recent addition of new lighting has revitalized its appearance, making it a striking landmark both day and night.
Recreational Activities on the Colorado River
Several local outfitters provide tube rentals and shuttle services, making it easy for visitors to arrange their river adventure. These services often include inflating the tubes and dropping participants off at designated points upstream. The experience is described as a nice float with great scenery, providing a relaxing escape from the desert heat.
Beyond tubing, the riverbanks and the restored wetland areas offer opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and simply enjoying the riparian environment. The parks themselves feature trails for walking and birdwatching, making the area around the bridge a multifaceted destination for both history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit