description Waldo Tunnel Overview
The Waldo Tunnel is a pair of road tunnels carrying U.S. Route 101 through the Marin Headlands north of the Golden Gate Bridge in Marin County, California. The first bore opened in 1937, and the second was completed in 1954. Officially named the Robin Williams Tunnel in 2016, it is recognizable for the rainbow painted around its south-facing portals and serves traffic between San Francisco and communities in Marin County.
help Waldo Tunnel FAQ
Where is the Waldo Tunnel, and when were its two bores built?
The Waldo Tunnel carries U.S. Route 101 through the Marin Headlands just north of the Golden Gate Bridge. Its first bore opened in 1937 and its second was completed in 1954. [Waldo Grade overview](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Waldo_Grade)
Why is the Waldo Tunnel also called the Robin Williams Tunnel?
California designated the structure as the Robin Williams Tunnel after the actor and comedian, who lived in Marin County and studied at the College of Marin. The official signs appeared in 2016 after the naming resolution. [California legislative record](https://www.leginfo.ca.gov/pub/15-16/bill/asm/ab_0001-0050/acr_1_bill_20150312_amended_asm_v98.html)
Why do some people call it the Rainbow Tunnel?
The tunnel entrances became known locally as the Rainbow Tunnel because their archways were painted in rainbow colors. Waldo Tunnel remains the historic name linked to William Waldo and nearby Waldo Point.
What road does the Waldo Tunnel carry through the Marin Headlands?
It carries State Route 101 between the Golden Gate Bridge and Marin County's northern approach. The route passes through the Waldo Grade before continuing toward Sausalito and other Marin communities.
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