Biking the Golden Gate

Like many of you, I grew up watching "Full House".  I loved the beginning of that show, with the slow flyover of the Golden Gate Bridge. As a child I didn't put much thought into San Francisco or the Bridge. But now that I live here I can't help but think of "Full House" when I see it. Isn't it funny how those things work? Well, I experienced a nostalgic moment when we biked across the "Full House" bridge a few weeks ago.

What an amazing life experience. I couldn't help but think of all of the people that have only day-dreamed of visiting San Fransisco to walk/bike/ride across the Golden Gate, and now it is right in our back yard. We drove to the city, parked outside of Golden Gate Park, unloaded our bikes, got the kids fastened in the Burley trailer and took off. How easy is that? (Well, that part was easy. In case you are unfamiliar with San Francisco - it is ridiculously hilly. Thank goodness Joe was with me and he was hauling Q & F). The views leading up to the bridge were spectacular. It was a perfectly clear day everywhere I looked things were clear and beautiful. The temperature was also perfect. We couldn't have picked a better route, or day, or parking spot!

Riding across the bridge was surreal. I was overwhelmed with emotions. I was scared when I looked down and saw how far it was to the water. I was invigorated by the beauty around me. I was excited to look over and see the bustle of San Francisco. I was happy to be able to bike with my little family, and it inspired me to learn more about the bridge.

Some bridge fun facts:

• The length of the bridge is 1.7 miles. 
• The bridge spans the area between Pacific Ocean and the San Francisco Bay, and connects San Francisco with Marin. 
• The bridge is not Golden; it is actually International Orange and was chosen by a consulting architect because it was visible in the fog and blended with the surrounding mountains while contrasting with the water and sky.
• The bridge is the most photographed bridge in the world. 

Overall, crossing the bridge was something that I have wanted to do for a while and am overjoyed that the experience was everything I had hoped it would be. When you come to San Francisco, rent a bike and do it! If you already live here, get on out there
!