The Guy West Bridge takes on a similar resemblance to the Golden Gate Bridge with its two 87-foot-tall towers, and its 1144 ft long, 16 ft wide suspended pedestrian walkways making it the largest of its type in the U.S.

The Guy West Bridge is accessed by Sacramento State students as well as the public. It is located off of University Avenue and leads directly onto the campus.

Sac State’s campus was originally where Sacramento City College is now. Sac State moved to its present location in 1953. There was a strong desire to create a college experience for Sac State and this implementation of a bridge allowed students to connect to campus from where they were living. The Guy West Bridge was built in 1966 with the purpose of connecting the campus commons to the campus.

However, the bridge not only serves as a means to get to a destination, but also creates space between home and school for students to slow down and take things in.

“Commuting across the Guy West Bridge everyday gives me a relaxing break from all that is hectic in life,” said kinesiology major Ronnie Davis. “I am reminded how beautiful Mother Nature is and how calming she can be for me. I just enjoy being able to experience nature for a few minutes everyday as I commute across the bridge.”

While walking across the bridge they are not in one place or the other but rather in the process, and on a journey between where they are coming from and where they are heading to.

This part of their day, as expressed by Sac State students, is a cherished aspect of their daily routine and helps them find peace in the chaos.

“My favorite part of commuting is the morning when the sun is rising, it’s just super peaceful and I like this walk a lot,” said business finance major Tommy Crosbie. “It helps me clear my thoughts before and after my day.”

The short experience provides students with an in-between time, which can be seldom found in the fast-paced moments of life.

College students who are striving to attain internships, careers, jobs and distinct majors may not always carve out time in their schedules to just breathe.

However, being on the bridge, an area of transition, offers students a chance to be in-between things in their lives as well. A walk on the bridge can bring this insight to students.

“Walking across the Guy West Bridge as part of my daily commute is such a privilege,” said pre-nursing major Jacqueline Shawver. “It’s a beautiful transition in my day, when I’m coming to school in the morning, it’s a peaceful way to ease into the commotion on campus, and on my way home it’s a beautiful place to enjoy and unwind as I finish my school day. It’s a blessing to have such a beautiful place that is practically my backyard.”

The Guy West Bridge is situated in the middle of trees, hiking trails, bike paths, and hovers right above the American River. Because campus is located in the heart of the city, students seem to really treasure the exposure to nature.

“Walking across the bridge has me admire Mother Nature,” said student John Pinedo. “Where it’s the trees, water, clouds, wildlife, sky, sun … it’s all there when crossing the bridge.”