Can You Drive Across the Golden Gate Bridge?

Yes, absolutely. The Golden Gate Bridge carries **U.S. Route 101 / California State Route 1** — **six lanes of vehicle traffic** (plus sidewalks for pedestrians/cyclists).

Correction to Common Misconception

The prompt's source incorrectly states "You cannot cross the Golden Gate by car." **This is false.** The bridge has carried cars since opening day (May 28, 1937).

Crossing Details

• Time: ~3–5 minutes at speed limit (45 mph / 72 km/h); 10–30+ min in peak traffic.
• Toll: **Southbound only** (into San Francisco). All-electronic (FasTrak / License Plate Account / One-Time Payment). ~$9–$11 for 2-axle vehicles.
• Length: 1.7 mi (2.7 km) main span 4,200 ft (1,280 m).
• Pedestrians/Bikes: East sidewalk (daylight hours); West sidewalk (bikes when east closed).

Why the Confusion?

• Maybe confused with **Golden Gate Park** (no through traffic on some roads).
• Or **Alcatraz** (ferry only).
• Or **Mackinac Bridge** (no pedestrians).

Drive it. It's iconic.