Spectacular views of the dry canyon and the vast mountains beyond it bely the dark history of this iconic arched channel.
The Colorado Street Bridge is a historic arched bridge stretching across the Arroyo Seco valley in western Pasadena. Dating back to 1912, the passageway is 150 feet (45 meters) high and has unfortunately picked up a reputation as a spot for suicides. Walk to the center of the bridge for stunning views of the surrounding valley and its green vegetation.
Check out the bridge from a distance to see the elegant beaux-arts arches and railings. Chat with locals about the history of the bridge, which is infamous for the many suicides involving people jumping from the top. This was particularly prevalent a century ago during the Great Depression. Several spurious and grisly legends and tales have developed around the bridge.
Notice the 8-foot (2.4-meter) barrier set up to deter people with suicidal intentions. Consider the iconic role the bridge plays in the local culture, having served as a filming location over the years for several TV programs, music videos and movies, including for a dance sequence in La La Land.
Drive over the bridge in the evening, noticing the sophisticated lanterns marking the balustrade. It is 1,486 feet (453 meters) long, bending to form an arch. Look out over the canyon and marvel at the various colors and shapes in the rock face. Low levels of water flow here seasonally.
Dramatic mountain peaks make up the scenic backdrop, while parks and patches of vegetation fill the foreground. Read the information on the plaque dedicated to the bridge and its history. It was constructed by the Waddell & Harrington company and opened in 1913.
The Colorado Street Bridge crosses over Brookside Park on the western side of Pasadena. From the heart of the Old Pasadena district, walk west for about 20 minutes to get here. While in the area, make sure to visit other surrounding landmarks such as the Rose Bowl Stadium, the Castle Green and the Kidspace Children’s Museum.
