Sundialed

Redding is home to one of the world’s most famous pedestrian-only bridges—the Sundial Bridge was created by the Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava (its sister bridges are in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and Seville, Spain).

The glass-deck bridge is indeed a true sundial, recording four hours of the day from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.—and only accurate during the solstice. Its construction over the Sacramento River includes tall pylon and cable stays that allow the bridge to avoid the nearby salmon-spawning habitat while encouraging public appreciation for the river, which weaves through the heart of Redding.

Celebrating its 21st anniversary this year, the Sundial is also the starting point for one of America’s most beautiful car-free bike rides. The Sacramento River Trail is a premier rail trail, following the river upstream for 17 beautiful miles (one-way). It goes all the way to Shasta Dam, but you can go as far as you’d like—there’s no shortage of enjoyment along the entire route.

Riding across the Sundial Bridge you’ll take in the shimmering river and spy waist-deep fly fishers casting for fresh catches.

Mount Shasta is in the distance, and ponderosa pines make the trail fragrant and shaded in sections. There are also two more bridges—the historic concrete Diestelhorst Bridge and the brightly muraled Stress Ribbon Bridge. The big challenge is farther along the trail at “Heartrate Hill” (you’ll know it when you feel it!), a brief but tough section dipping and curving as you head to high rolling in the wilds, with a bird’s-eye view of the river. This climb rewards with a brilliant trifecta vista of the three superb S’s: Lake Shasta, Mount Shasta, and Shasta Dam. Shasta la vista!

BONUS FOOD & DRINK: After your ride … rest, relax, and restore your energy at Branch House Riverfront Bistro, located right at the base of the Sundial. The outdoor patio warms with a fireplace, and the food here is great too. You can also grab dinner just around the corner at the lively and tasty Mosaic Restaurant.

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