Golden Gate Park
time travel by bike
This ambitious garden the size of New York's Central Park was built on unforgiving windswept sand, partly as a refuge from city stress and partly to boost land developer profits. It has become a showcase for exotic and native species with lush woods, flowerbeds, recreation sites and jungles. The park was home to the first electric light displayed in San Francisco, the first playground in the world, and many peculiar statues, recreation areas, quiet walkways and edible plants.
We'll bicycle to prehistoric groves, dense redwoods, buffalo, hippies, and other artifacts of time's tumble. There's even ruins of a stolen eleventh century Spanish monastery that has become a pagan ritual altar!
Come with us for an exploration of the "artificial" nature refuge that San Franciscans use for their ball games, drug trips, and law suits; curse for its weather; and spontaneously reenact the Summer of Love in whenever blessed by a sunny afternoon.
If you need a bike, you can rent one near the Park, or we can help you find a free loaner.
Two hours minimum, followed by an optional add-on ride across the Golden Gate Bridge (adds another two hours). Note: the Bridge is not especially near Golden gate Park, and is very windy and noisy, but since so many people want to see it and bike is the best way, we include this option. Besides, the route from the Park to the Bridge is beautiful and has only one big uphill (one block long).
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