A Step Along the Way: The 7 Bridge Hike

An Urban Trail Adventure

The Spruce Street Suspension Bridge is a key landmark along one of San Diego's most popular urban walking routes: the 7 Bridge Hike. This established loop trail offers a unique way to experience the city on foot, winding through several central neighborhoods including Bankers Hill, Hillcrest, North Park, and University Heights, as well as traversing parts of Balboa Park.

The hike is generally considered easy to moderate, covering a distance of approximately 5.5 to 6.6 miles on mostly flat, paved urban terrain, although it does include some stairs and inclines. It's accessible for various fitness levels and often enjoyed by families. The walk typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours to complete, depending on pace and stops along the way.

Mapping the Route: The Seven Spans

Being a loop, the 7 Bridge Hike can be started at various points, though Balboa Park is a very common and convenient starting location. The hike connects seven distinct and historically interesting bridges. While the exact order can vary slightly based on the chosen starting point and specific path, a typical sequence starting from the east side of Balboa Park is as follows:

1. Park Boulevard Bridge: Crossing Park Boulevard near the Rose Garden in Balboa Park.
2. Cabrillo Bridge: The iconic cantilever bridge spanning the CA-163 freeway, exiting/entering Balboa Park on the west side.
3. First Avenue Bridge: San Diego's only steel-arch bridge, crossing Maple Canyon in Bankers Hill.
4. Quince Street Bridge: The historic wooden trestle footbridge, also crossing Maple Canyon. (More Info)
5. Spruce Street Suspension Bridge: The unique "wiggly" bridge crossing Kate Sessions Canyon. (You are here!)
6. Vermont Street Bridge: A modern bridge connecting Hillcrest and University Heights.
7. Georgia Street Bridge: A historic concrete arch bridge connecting Hillcrest and North Park.

The route involves navigating neighborhood streets between the bridges, offering glimpses of local architecture, gardens, shops, and cafes. A map or reliable turn-by-turn directions are highly recommended for navigating the loop effectively.

The Spruce Street Bridge Experience on the Hike

Within the 7 Bridge Hike, the Spruce Street Suspension Bridge serves as a definite highlight and a memorable experience. Typically encountered as the fifth bridge in the sequence, it offers a distinct change from the other structures.

Its iconic status, scenic perch high above Kate Sessions Canyon, and the unique "wiggle" make it a standout moment. It's frequently noted as a popular spot for hikers to pause and take photos.

Navigating to the bridge usually involves arriving on Spruce Street after visiting the Quince Street Bridge, typically via First, Second, Third, or Fourth Avenue. After crossing the suspension bridge from east to west, the typical hike route continues north via Brant Street towards University Avenue to reach the Vermont Street Bridge.