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Rattlesnake Bridge: Tucson's Serpentine Landmark
Walk or cycle through a giant rattlesnake in Tucson! An iconic bridge blending art and functionality, connecting paths and sparking curiosity.
The Rattlesnake Bridge in Tucson, Arizona, is a 280-foot pedestrian and bicycle bridge designed to resemble a Western Diamondback Rattlesnake. This unique structure allows people to safely cross over Broadway Boulevard, linking Iron Horse Park and the Aviation Bikeway.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Rattlesnake Bridge
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Rattlesnake Brg, Tucson, Iron Horse, Arizona, 85719, US
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Getting There
Walking
If you are in downtown Tucson, head east on Broadway Boulevard. The bridge is located just east of downtown, near the intersection of Broadway and Euclid Avenue. You'll see the distinctive snake head and fangs as you approach.
Public Transport
From downtown Tucson, take the Sun Tran bus #13 towards Tucson Mountain Park. Get off at the stop closest to the park entrance. From there, it's approximately a 2-mile walk along Tucson Mountain Park Road to reach the bridge. Be sure to use pedestrian paths and watch for traffic. A single ride on Sun Tran is $1.75.
Taxi/Ride-share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Tucson. A taxi ride from downtown Tucson to the Rattlesnake Bridge will cost approximately $12-$20, depending on traffic and the specific route. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver or through the app before you start your trip.
Local tips
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Visit during sunrise or sunset for the best lighting to photograph the bridge and the surrounding landscape.
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Combine your visit with a walk or bike ride along the Aviation Bikeway or through Iron Horse Park.
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Look for the subtle details in the bridge's design, such as the painted diamonds and the segmented underbelly, which mimic a real rattlesnake.
Discover more about Rattlesnake Bridge
The Rattlesnake Bridge, also known as the Diamondback Bridge or Snake Bridge, is a distinctive landmark in Tucson, Arizona. Completed in 2002, this 280-foot-long bridge was designed by artist Simon Donovan to resemble a Western Diamondback Rattlesnake, a species endemic to the region. The bridge serves as a pedestrian and bicycle crossing over Broadway Boulevard, connecting Iron Horse Park and the Aviation Bikeway.The bridge's design incorporates biologically accurate details of a rattlesnake. The entrance at one end is shaped like the snake's head, complete with gaping maw and fangs, while the opposite end features a sculpted tail rattle. The body of the snake is covered in a metal mesh, painted with the colors and patterns of a real rattlesnake, including the diamond-shaped markings. Originally, the snake's eyes lit up at night, and a motion-activated rattle sound effect was triggered as people exited the bridge.The Rattlesnake Bridge has become an iconic symbol of Tucson, representing the city's commitment to public art and its connection to the surrounding desert environment. It has also won an award from the Federal Highway Administration.
A brief summary to Rattlesnake Bridge
Use Rattlesnake Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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