THE SUNDIAL BRIDGE

If you haven’t visited northern California, I mean far northern California, now is the time to do so. Just an hour south of Siskiyou County is Redding. You may not know it but Redding really has something special to offer.

The Sacramento meanders right through Redding in its entire splendor. Did you know that the headwaters of the Sacramento is in Mt. Shasta City? Don’t forget to visit the Mt. Shasta City Park, sit on a park bench and relax at the headwaters.

The City of Redding decided to dedicate a portion of the river for people to enjoy. They wanted to make it a natural habitat that includes native plants and animals. They created miles of walkways along the river as well as Turtle Bay, the museum that is dedicated to the history and natural habitat of the area. But it gets better. They also built the Sundial Bridge to cross the river. It is an actual sundial. It has been featured in “Sunset Magazine”, “VIA”, and other travel magazines. It is truly worth a visit.

Park your car and either bike or walk across the bridge. Stop on the bridge to admire the river and watch the fisherman. After crossing the bridge you can walk or ride the miles of pathways. This time of year the scenery is painted with wildflowers and huge Oak Trees that seem centuries old. You can even visit the Arboretum, which has all the flowers and bushes you can even imagine.