Location and History of the Golden Gate Bridge

Golden Gate Bridge: Icon of San Francisco

The Golden Gate Bridge spans the Golden Gate Strait, the entrance to San Francisco Bay from the Pacific Ocean, connecting San Francisco (south) to Marin County (north).

Vital Statistics

• Total Length: 8,981 ft (2,737 m) including approaches.
• Main Span: 4,200 ft (1,280 m) – longest suspension span in world 1937–1964.
• Tower Height: 746 ft (227 m) above water.
• Clearance: 220 ft (67 m) at high tide.
• Color: International Orange (primer color chosen for visibility/fog).
• Construction: Jan 1933 – Apr 1937. Chief Engineer: Joseph B. Strauss.
• Cost: $35 million (1930s dollars).

Engineering Marvels

• First bridge to span a major ocean harbor entrance in high seismic/wind zone.
• Innovative safety net saved 19 lives ("Halfway to Hell Club"). 11 died (10 in one scaffold fall).
• Cables: 2 main cables, each 36.5 in diameter, 7,650 ft long, 27,572 parallel wires.
• Designed for 27 ft lateral sway, 8 mph wind (survived 70+ mph).

Experience

• Walk/Bike: East sidewalk (pedestrians), west sidewalk (bikes) – free.
• Visitor Centers: Southeast plaza (exhibits, cafe), Round House (gift shop).
• Tours: Bridge walks, Ironworkers' history, night tours.

The Golden Gate Bridge is a globally recognized symbol of engineering audacity and the gateway to the Pacific.