Walking & Biking the Golden Gate Bridge
Walking or cycling across the Golden Gate Bridge is free, and it is one of the best experiences in San Francisco. The 1.7-mile crossing takes about 35 minutes on foot and offers spectacular views of the Bay, Alcatraz, and the city skyline. Here is everything you need to plan your crossing.
Sidewalk Hours & Access
The Golden Gate Bridge has two sidewalks, one on each side. Which sidewalk you use depends on whether you are walking or cycling, and the time of day.
| Period | Hours | East Sidewalk | West Sidewalk |
|---|---|---|---|
| April - October | 5:00 AM - 9:00 PM | Pedestrians & cyclists (before 3:30 PM on weekdays, all day weekends) | Cyclists only (after 3:30 PM on weekdays) |
| November - March | 5:00 AM - 6:30 PM | Pedestrians & cyclists | Cyclists only (limited hours) |
| Overnight | After closing | Closed to all | Closed to all |
Hours may change for special events, maintenance, or severe weather. Check goldengate.org for real-time updates.
Which Sidewalk to Use
East Sidewalk (Bay Side)
The most popular sidewalk for visitors. Offers panoramic views of the San Francisco skyline, Alcatraz Island, Angel Island, and the East Bay hills. This is where most tourists and casual walkers go.
- + Best views (skyline, Alcatraz, Bay)
- + Open to pedestrians daily
- + More sheltered from ocean wind
- - Can be very crowded on weekends
West Sidewalk (Ocean Side)
Primarily for cyclists. Faces the Pacific Ocean with views of the Marin Headlands, Point Bonita Lighthouse, and the Farallon Islands on clear days. Less crowded but more exposed to wind.
- + Ocean views, less crowded
- + Sunset views in the evening
- - Cyclists only (pedestrians use east side)
- - More wind exposure from the Pacific
Where to Start Your Crossing
San Francisco Side (South)
Most visitors start from the San Francisco side. The main access point is the southeast parking lot near the Welcome Center and the Bridge Pavilion gift shop. From here, follow the path under the bridge toll plaza to reach the east sidewalk entrance.
Marin Side (North)
Starting from the Marin side is less crowded. The Vista Point parking lot on the north end has parking and restrooms. From here, the sidewalk entrance is a short walk. This is also where many cyclists end their ride before heading down to Sausalito.
Cycling Guide
Rules for Cyclists
- - Speed limit: 15 mph on the bridge sidewalks
- - Yield to pedestrians at all times
- - Use a bell or call out when passing
- - Ride in single file, stay right
- - Class 1 and 2 e-bikes allowed, Class 3 not allowed
- - E-scooters and skateboards not permitted
Popular Cycling Routes
- 1. SF to Sausalito (8.5 miles one-way) - Cross the bridge, descend to Sausalito, ferry back. The classic route. About 1 hour of riding.
- 2. SF to Tiburon (16 miles one-way) - Continue past Sausalito along the bay to Tiburon. Ferry back from Tiburon to SF. Longer but flatter.
- 3. Marin Headlands loop (12 miles round trip) - Cross the bridge, climb Conzelman Road for stunning bridge views from above, loop back via Bunker Road. Hilly but spectacular.
Bike Rentals Near the Bridge
Several bike rental shops near Fisherman's Wharf and the Marina District offer rentals specifically for Golden Gate Bridge crossings. Most include helmets, locks, and maps of the SF-to-Sausalito route.
| Type | Typical Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Standard bike (2-3 hours) | $25-$35 | Bridge crossing + Sausalito. Flat route, easy for all fitness levels. |
| Standard bike (full day) | $35-$50 | Bridge + Sausalito + Tiburon, or Marin Headlands exploration. |
| Electric bike (2-3 hours) | $45-$65 | Bridge crossing with minimal effort. Great for hills on the Marin side. |
| Electric bike (full day) | $65-$95 | Longer rides including Marin Headlands loop or Tiburon. |
| Tandem bike (full day) | $55-$75 | Couples or parent-child rides. Fun but wider, so be careful on the sidewalk. |
Prices are approximate and vary by vendor. Book online for discounts. Bay Wheels bike-share docks are also available near the bridge.
Tips for Your Crossing
Dress in layers
The bridge is almost always windy, even on warm days. Temperatures on the bridge can be 10-15 degrees colder than downtown San Francisco. Bring a windbreaker or jacket regardless of the forecast.
Go early for fewer crowds
The bridge is least crowded before 9 AM. By midday on weekends, the east sidewalk can be shoulder-to-shoulder with tourists. Sunrise crossings are spectacular and nearly empty.
Watch for fog
Karl the Fog is unpredictable. The bridge can be completely socked in during summer mornings, with visibility under 50 feet. Check webcams at goldengate.org before heading out. Fog usually clears by afternoon.
Wear good shoes
The sidewalk surface is concrete and metal grating. The round trip is 3.4 miles. Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Flip-flops and heels are not recommended.
Bring a camera with a strap
The views are incredible, but the wind is strong. A phone or camera strap is smart insurance. The best photo spots are the two main tower bases and the midpoint of the span.
Plan your return
If walking, you must return the same way (no transit from the Marin side without going to Sausalito). If cycling, you can take the ferry from Sausalito back to SF. Check ferry schedules in advance.
Accessibility
The east sidewalk is wheelchair accessible for its full length. The path is flat with gentle grades and has no steps. Restrooms are available at the visitor areas on both the San Francisco and Marin sides. The west sidewalk also has no stairs but is narrower and less suitable for wheelchairs.
Motorized wheelchairs and mobility scooters are permitted on the sidewalks. Segways and hoverboards are not permitted.