Day 17 Samuel P. Taylor State Park to San Francisco, CA

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Seattle to San Francisco

Day 17 Samuel P. Taylor State Park to San Francisco, CA

Greetings from San Francisco! I made it!

Tom at the Golden Gate Bridge

I left the campground and began navigating a confusing series of city streets and bike paths in South Marin County. Along the way I ran into Danielle, one of the cyclists in the hiker-biker site at Sam Taylor Park. Using directions from my guidebook and advice from local cyclists, we managed to find our way to the Golden Gate Bridge. As we got closer, excitement began building. We climbed up past the bridge to the Marin Headlands for our "victory" photos. The view of the bridge, the city and the bay were magnificent! The dramatic scenery further heightened our sense of excitement and accomplishment. I should mention that the weather was excellent again today. All I kept saying was "This is so cool!"

Crossing the Golden Gate Bridge

We rode across the Golden Gate Bridge on a wide sidewalk. There were hundreds of cyclists on the bridge. At the end of the bridge Danielle and I went our separate ways.

I rode across the Presidio of San Francisco and climbed a monster hill on Arguello Blvd. I found my B&B on the other side of the hill.

I checked in and found that my case made it to the B&B in excellent shape. I dropped off my touring bags and got back on my bike to explore the city.

I wandered about aimlessly for a bit. Then, I found a nice restaurant with sidewalk tables where I could watch my bike. At my waiter's suggestion, I rode east on Broadway through a scary tunnel. I got a glimpse of the Transamerica building and some other famous landmarks.

Alcatraz

Submarine

I eventually found my way to Fishermans' Warf. I had read that the place was a tacky tourist trap. But, I had a great time there. There were lots of street performers and musicians. I got great views of the bay and Alcatraz. The place was very festive. There was a World War II submarine on display. I wanted to take the tour. But I didn't because I didn't want to risk my bike.

Cable Car

I rode up this insanely steep hill to get a photo of one of San Francisco's famous cable cars.

I rode back to the B&B and packed up my bike. Then I went for a walk and got a supper of pad Thai from one of the many Asian restaurants on nearby Clement Street.

It's been a great trip.

Todays total is 49 miles.

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