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Walk Across the Golden Gate Bridge: 12 Tips & Answers to FAQs
by Jill Loeffler •
Can you walk across the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco? Yes, you can!
I've walked across the bridge dozens of times, so I have lots of tips for you based on my experience.
The great news is that the pedestrian walkway is open every day of the year and free for all visitors, so it will be easy to fit into your itinerary. Walking across this incredible gem is a highlight of many trips to SF.
The 1.7-mile-long Golden Gate Bridge dons a striking International Orange and sits over a narrow straight above the San Francisco Bay. The bridge's southern side is in SF, and the northern end of the bridge is in Sausalito in Marin County.
Upon its completion in 1937, it was the longest and tallest suspension bridge in the world. Although it no longer holds that distinction, you will find this San Francisco attraction just as magnificent as ever.
Ready to walk the Golden Gate Bridge? In this article, you will find a few tips and answers to some frequently asked questions about one of the most gorgeous bridges in the world!
Disclaimer: I receive a small commission from some of the links on this page.
1. Distance & Time to Walk the Bridge
You can take this same photo from inside the Equator Coffee in the Round House on the south side of the bridge.How long is the Golden Gate Bridge? It's 1.7 miles or 2.7 kilometers across.
It's a straight path with a little bit of an uphill walk until you reach the center. It then goes downhill just a bit, but not too much.
How long does it take to walk the Golden Gate Bridge?
Walking all the way across the Golden Gate Bridge at a steady pace will take you about 30 minutes. Part of the experience is taking in all the sights, though, so plan for it to take you at least 45 minutes each way.
You will find that most people walk to the first tower, spend a little time soaking in the scenery, and then head back. If you do this, it's about a half-mile from the Golden Gate Bridge Vista Point South to the first tower, making the roundtrip only about 1 mile long.
How much does it cost to walk across the Golden Gate Bridge? While there is a toll for southbound vehicles crossing the bridge, it is totally free for pedestrians and cyclists going north or south.
2. Entrances to the East Sidewalk
Where do I start the Golden Gate Bridge walk? Find your way to the east sidewalk, which is the side that faces the bay, not the ocean.
If you're starting in San Francisco, as most people do, your walk across the Golden Gate Bridge will start near Vista Point South. You'll see the entrance near the roadway just to the west of this famous lookout point.
What if I want to walk across the Golden Gate Bridge from Sausalito? From the north side of the bridge, your walk will begin at Vista Point in Marin County. There are a few sidewalks that lead you to the east pedestrian walkway.
NOTE: The sidewalk on the western side of the bridge is reserved for cyclists. It's open during the busiest times of the day and on the weekends. You can only enter this side if you are on a bike; no pedestrians allowed.
If you're interested in biking across the Golden Gate Bridge, visit my page for details on where to find a bike rental, what the entire path looks like, and how to get back to SF.
3. Golden Gate Bridge Walkway Hours
What are the hours for walking across the Golden Gate Bridge?
The hours vary by season. Here are the current hours for the East Walkway.
- 1st Sunday in November to the 2nd Monday in March: 5 am to 6:30 pm
- 2nd Monday in March to the 1st Sunday in November: 5 am to 9 pm
The walkways have gates that automatically open and close at these times, as pedestrians are not allowed on the bridge at night. If you are on the bridge close to closing time, make sure to exit the walkway as soon as you can.
4. Parking Near the Bridge
Where do you park to walk across the Golden Gate Bridge? You will find several options for parking near the beautiful Golden Gate Bridge.
The visitor parking lot right near the Welcome Center on the San Francisco side gets crowded early, and it is difficult to find a parking space, so I never recommend parking here.
However, I created a complete guide to help you find parking for your visit. You will find both paid and free parking options on my list. You can see all of my recommendations here.
What amenities will you find near the bridge? On the south end, you'll find hot drinks and food at the Round House Cafe (open from 9 am to 6 pm daily), as well as souvenirs and history exhibits at the Welcome Center. There are no amenities on the north end of the bridge.
5. Best Times to Walk Across the Golden Gate Bridge
What is the best time of day to walk across the Golden Gate Bridge? There are a few times that I recommend. Here are a few more details on each one.
Mid-Morning
I think the best time to explore the bridge on foot is in the mid-morning. During the foggy season, this is usually the time of day when the fog starts to burn off, so you can get great views from the Golden Gate Bridge walkways.
By this time of day, the temperatures will be a little warmer than in the early morning.
Early Evening
Another fun time to walk on the Golden Gate Bridge is in the early evening. This is when the foot traffic dies down a little, and you can walk across more easily.
Dusk is also when you'll get beautiful sunset views and photos.
On weekdays after 3:30 pm, cyclists are required to use the western walkway, so you won't have to worry about bike traffic as you walk. (This does not apply to weekends or holidays, when cyclists can use either side.)
Weekdays
Weekdays in general are also more pleasant for walking the Golden Gate Bridge because you will also find less pedestrian traffic.
Usually, you'll find the least number of people visiting on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. The closer you get to the weekend, the more traffic you will find.
San Francisco high season is during the summer and over holiday weekends. The bridge is crowded during these times.
FUN FACT: What is the bridge capacity?
While we can't know for sure, its limits were definitely tested with the Golden Gate Bridge Walk of 1987, when we celebrated its 50th birthday. Organizers had closed the bridge to cars and expected a turnout of 80,000 pedestrians. Instead, 300,000 people crowded onto the bridge, weighing it down so much it flattened.
6. Walking the Bridge at Night
Can you walk across the Golden Gate Bridge at night? No.
The walkways on the bridge close down to pedestrians at night for safety reasons.
It is open 24 hours a day to cyclists, but they close it to pedestrians to prevent accidents on the bridge when it's dark.
The gates will automatically close at 6:30 pm in the winter and 9 pm in summer.
7. What to Wear
This is a great view of the east sidewalk. You can also see it's a sunny day, and most people are bundled up with jackets and long pants.What should I wear while walking across the Golden Gate Bridge?
Most people don't realize that it's windy on the Golden Gate Bridge and usually a bit cooler than San Francisco or the surrounding areas. During our warmest months, September and October, you will find it's not as cool as windy as the rest of the year.
Due to these variations, I recommend you wear layers.
I usually wear a medium-weight long or short-sleeved shirt. I then bring along a jacket to add or remove as I walk across. You can find some great waterproof windbreakers for men and women that pack up small on Amazon.
I always wear long pants. Shorts are acceptable if you run hot, but make sure to bring along a jacket to keep you warm.
Also, I don't recommend skirts. The wind can whip around at times, and you don't want to have to be trying to hold your dress down the entire time you are there.
For your feet, I recommend you wear close-toed shoes with socks. I don't recommend heels, as the pavement is not 100% flat on the walkway. There are a few places where you could trip if you are wearing heels.
Biking the Bridge: Trying to decide if you should bike the bridge instead? If so, check out this page with everything you need to know to bike the Golden Gate Bridge. You can also check out this excellent Guided Cycling Tour.
8. Walking to Sausalito
Can I walk all the way to Sausalito? Yes!
You can walk across the Golden Gate Bridge and all the way to Sausalito (on the Marin side). I've done it a few times. It's quite a walk, and you'll want to come prepared, but you can get all the way to Sausalito from the bridge on foot.
One of the things to keep in mind is that once you leave Golden Gate Bridge Vista Point (on the Sausalito side), there are no services until you reach Sausalito. You won't find anywhere to stop, go to the bathroom, or grab something to eat.
Make sure you bring everything you will need for your walk. On top of the 1.7 miles to walk across, it's another 2.5 miles from the northern end of the bridge to downtown Sausalito. That's a total of around 4 to 4.5 miles from San Francisco one way.
You will run into some hills as you walk the last 2.5 miles to Sausalito, but they aren't too bad.
>> Discover the best Sausalito highlights to check out while you're there
9. Best Way to Get Back to San Francisco
Can I take the ferry or public transportation back from Sausalito? Yes!
Tips to Take the Ferry Back from Sausalito
You can take the ferry back from Sausalito if you plan to walk over the Golden Gate Bridge. The Sausalito ferry terminal is downtown, so the walk to get there won't add to the mileage for your journey.
You will want to check the times for the ferry on the day of your walk. I'd double-check them in the morning, as the ferry does not run very often to SF.
Make sure you leave a little extra time, since you will probably walk slower than you think over the bridge (there are so many great things to stop and admire!).
You have two ferry options. The one that runs most often is through Blue and Gold. It drops off at Fisherman's Wharf near Pier 39.
The second option is a commuter ferry, which doesn't run as often. It drops off at the SF Ferry Building.
>> Pick up your Sausalito ferry tickets in advance
Take the Bus from Sausalito to San Francisco
If you miss the ferry, you can also take the 130 Golden Gate Transit bus from downtown Sausalito back over the bridge.
If you wish to get back to the parking lot on the San Francisco end, let the driver know you want to get off here, as they don't stop unless requested. This ride takes about 16 minutes.
If you want to get closer to your hotel, you can take this same bus to Fisherman's Wharf (it drops off about a half-mile from the western end of the district), Civic Center, and Union Square.
This bus drives along Mission Street, one block south of Market Street. You may have to walk a half-mile to a mile to get from these bus stops to your hotel in Union Square.
10. Dogs & Animals on the Bridge
Can I bring my dog along? Unfortunately, non-service animals, including dogs and horses, are not allowed on the Golden Gate Bridge.
If you have a service animal, they are welcome to join you on the bridge when it's open to pedestrians.
Be aware of your surroundings as both cyclists and pedestrians use the eastern Golden Gate Bridge walkway. Some cyclists come through quickly and, since it's loud on the bridge, you may not hear them coming.
Keep your service animal and yourself safe by being very aware of others on the bridge, both in front and behind you.
What else is not allowed on the Golden Gate Bridge? Electric scooters, rollerblades or skates, skateboards, and drones are not allowed on the sidewalks for safety reasons. Also, throwing anything off the side of the bridge is a misdemeanor.
11. What Sights Can I See from the Bridge?
Here are just a few of the attractions you can see from the walkway on the bridge.
Crissy Field
This long, narrow stretch of green space is easy to see from the bridge. It's a popular spot for running and walking.
It's also where you will find the Warming Hut, a popular restaurant with sandwiches, salads, and coffee. Learn more here.
Fort Point National Historic Site
The Fort Point historic landmark sits below the southern end of the bridge. It's one of the oldest buildings in SF and interesting to see from above.
It's also free to visit, and one of my favorite places for taking close-up Golden Gate Bridge photos from below. Learn more about it here.
Palace of Fine Arts
You'll easily be able to spot this dome-shaped attraction just to the east of the bridge. It's also free to visit, and one of my go-to picnic spots to enjoy a morning or afternoon.
The Roman-style columns and lagoon at this historic beauty are often featured in films. More here.
Alcatraz Island
From the eastern sidewalk where you'll be walking, you will get some great views of "The Rock," or Alcatraz Island.
This former federal prison in the middle of San Francisco Bay is another must-visit. Find out more about visiting here.
>> Alcatraz tickets tend to sell out. Get yours ahead of your visit!
Angel Island
The largest island in the San Francisco Bay sits just beyond Alcatraz. You can see it from the walkway as well.
It served as a military base and immigration station for several decades. Learn more about the history of this island and a few tips to visit.
Downtown San Francisco
The perfect place to admire the skyline of downtown San Francisco is on your walk across the Golden Gate Bridge.
It's a unique vantage point, since you'll be looking back at the city from over the bay. Find out what to see and do downtown.
Marin Headlands
The Marin Headlands sits to the north of the bridge in Marin County. It's part of the vast Golden Gate National Recreation Area.
If you love to walk and decide to go all the way across the bridge, then you can continue your hike up to the top of these hills for even more incredible views of San Francisco.
Fort Baker
Just under the northern end of the bridge, you will find Fort Baker. You can see it from the walkways above, or stroll down there when you finish crossing the bridge.
This is the site of the Bay Area Discovery Museum, which is popular with families, and the luxurious Cavallo Point lodge.
>> Find details about this historic lodge and other top getaways in Sausalito
Battery Spencer
Another attraction on the Marin side of the bridge is Battery Spencer, about halfway up the hill to the Marin Headlands. You can hike up to visit or admire it from the bridge.
This is a fantastic stop for history buffs, as it dates back to the post-Civil War era. What was then a strategic point for coastal defense guns is now an incredible place to take in the views.
Want that perfect shot of the Golden Gate Bridge? If you are looking for the best views of this gorgeous SF landmark, check out my page on the top 15 spots to take amazing photos.
12. Guided Tours of the Golden Gate Bridge
Can you walk across the Golden Gate Bridge on a guided tour? Certainly!
This will allow you to learn more about its history, including Joseph Strauss, the bridge designer and engineer who made this gorgeous gem a reality.
Free SF Public Library Walking Tour
This free 1.5- to 2-hour walking tour is offered a couple of times every week, usually at 11 am. It starts at the Strauss statue in the visitors plaza on the SF side of the bridge.
You will learn about the bridge's history and architecture, its challenging geology, important people from around the Bay Area who supported its construction, and more fun facts.
>> Learn more about these walking tours here
Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
If you want to ride across, a great way to do so is on the Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus tour. It's an open-top bus, which still gives you the chance to feel the wind in your hair as you live this uniquely SF experience.
This tour bus takes you around SF to 17 top attractions and allows you to jump off and on at any of their designated stops, including the Golden Gate Bridge Vista Point North. They run along the route every 10 to 15 minutes from 10 am to 6 pm.
>> Get tickets for this popular tour here!
Love Tour
This small-group tour in a 1970s VW bus also offers a chance for you to stop and admire the bridge in all its glory.
Your two-hour sightseeing tour will start in none other than the Haight-Ashbury district, home of the hippie movement and the Summer of Love.
After visiting the Golden Gate Bridge, you'll make your way through SF's most iconic neighborhoods.
Panoramic Night Tour
If you want to see the Golden Gate Bridge at night, this one-hour open-top bus tour is a great way to visit.
You'll have the chance to photograph this beauty and other top San Francisco attractions while they're illuminated in the dark.
>> Find details and book this night tour here
Comments? Questions? Suggestions?
I would love for you to join me in my private Facebook group!
It's a great place to interact with me and others who know the area well.
You can ask questions, get advice for your upcoming stay, and then share your photos and advice with others when you return home. It's a great community and the fastest way to get answers to those nagging questions about your visit!
