Golden Gate Bridge in numbers
The figures below come from the published design and construction statistics. They describe the bridge itself, not the walk or the drive. The total length includes the approach structures. If a source gives a slightly longer figure, it counts the road to the toll plaza as well.
This guide is independent and not run by the bridge district or the park service. For dates and the people behind the design, see the history page.
Size, towers and cables
All values as published, in metric and US units.
| Measure | Metric | US units |
|---|---|---|
| Total length with approach structures | 2,737 m | 8,981 ft (1.7 miles) |
| Length including the way to the toll plaza | 2,788 m | 9,150 ft |
| Main span between the towers | 1,280 m | 4,200 ft |
| Total suspended structure | 1,966 m | 6,450 ft |
| Tower height above the water | 227 m | 746 ft |
| Tower height above the roadway | 152 m | 500 ft |
| Clearance above mean higher high water | 67 m | 220 ft |
| Main cables | 2 cables, 0.92 m across, 2,332 m long each | – |
| Wires per cable | 27,572, bundled in 61 strands | – |
| Wire length, both cables together | about 129,000 km | about 80,000 miles |
The clearance is measured from mean higher high water, a tidal reference. It is not always the distance to the water you see on the day, and it is not the height of the walkway.
Golden Gate Bridge tours
See the bridge up close on a guided walk, from the water on a bay cruise or by bike, with live prices and availability.
International Orange
The color and why it was chosen.
Irving Morrow chose the orange-red tone. It suits the surroundings and makes the bridge easier for ships to see, which matters in fog. The name Golden Gate belongs to the strait, not to a golden color.
Paint work on the bridge is ongoing as corrosion protection. That does not mean the whole bridge is repainted every year. Fog, wind and salt air are the reason the work never ends.
Safety barrier and current works
Status as published in 2026.
A continuous physical barrier has been in place on both sides of the bridge since 1 January 2024. Construction began in 2018. Some contract work was still listed through December 2026, so a finished barrier and a closed contract are two different milestones. The net used during the original construction in the 1930s is a separate matter.
Since 5 October 2026 there are night lane closures for earthquake strengthening. At least one lane in each direction stays open, and delays are possible.
The practical numbers
What the figures mean for your visit.
Walking
The way across is 2,737 m one way. There and back is 5,474 m, about 3.4 miles, before any extra steps at either end. Pedestrians use the east sidewalk only, and it is free.
Walking guide →Driving
The toll applies southbound only, toward San Francisco. For a two-axle vehicle in 2026 the published rates are $10.25 or $10.50 for FasTrak and license plate payment, and $11.25 by invoice. Check the toll page for the rate for your payment method.
Toll guide →Biking
Cyclists share the walkway with pedestrians, who have priority. The speed limit is 15 mph, and 5 mph at the towers. All e-bike classes are allowed.
Biking guide →Reading the numbers correctly
Why some figures look different from one source to the next.
Two lengths
The bridge itself, including the approach structures, is 2,737 m. The figure of 2,788 m also counts the way to the toll plaza. Both are correct for what they measure. Do not use either one to work out the distance between two viewpoints.
Two tower heights
The towers are 227 m above the water and 152 m above the roadway. They measure from different starting points, so quote them with their reference.
Span versus total
The main span of 1,280 m is the gap between the two towers. The suspended structure of 1,966 m is a separate measure: the whole suspended structure.
Wire in the cables
Each main cable holds 27,572 wires. Together the wires of both cables would be about 129,000 km long, or about 80,000 miles.
More about the bridge
History, views, walking and tolls.
Golden Gate Bridge facts: frequently asked questions
How long is the Golden Gate Bridge?
The total length with the approach structures is 2,737 m (8,981 ft, 1.7 miles). Counting the way to the toll plaza, it is 2,788 m (9,150 ft).
How tall are the towers?
The towers rise 227 m (746 ft) above the water and 152 m (500 ft) above the roadway.
How long is the main span?
The main span between the two towers is 1,280 m (4,200 ft). The total suspended structure is 1,966 m (6,450 ft).
What color is the bridge?
The color is International Orange, chosen by Irving Morrow. It fits the landscape and helps ships see the bridge.
How many cables does it have?
There are two main cables. Each is 0.92 m across and 2,332 m long and holds 27,572 wires in 61 strands.