Sundial Bridge in Redding

On our trip to Bend, my husband and I stopped off in Redding, CA to visit the Sundial Bridge at Turtle Bay Exploration Park on the Sacramento River. The footbridge is a suspension bridge, and working sundial. It was designed by Spanish architect, Santiago Calatrava, and opened on July 4, 2004.

Entrance to the Park and the footbridge

Sundial Bridge is situated in a lovely forested, riparian area, which is green with beautiful oaks and understory. The landscaping is a great combination of water wise plants and grasses, and the natural riparian plants along the water's edge.

Green oak mixed forest

 

We spent a couple of pleasant hours admiring the architecture, strolling over the bridge, and investigating the construction. We saw many bird nests on the bridge, and many birds in the water and on the shore.

Sundial Bridge casting a shadow

Glass panels - warm by day, and lit by night

 

The Turtle Bay Park offers many recreational opportunities. Day camp and nature programs for kids, a place for pets, trails, an arboretum and botanical garden, museum, coffee bar, and gift shop. It is a great place for locals, and conveniently located off Interstate 5 near Highway 44. Next time I plan to visit the gardens, and view the bridge at night!