On the Golden Gate Bridge

Sunday we got a quick breakfast at the hotel and began the drive north to San Francisco.  Our first stop was the Golden Gate bridge.  While the parking lot was fairly crowded by the time we got there (around 10:30), we were fortunate to find a spot.  We got out of the car and realized two things.  The bridge was really cool.  And that Louisa does not like cold, windy foggy walks.  However, we still made it halfway across the bridge, and were able to enjoy the architecture and views of Alcatraz.  We then quickly walked back to the car and drove to nearby Sausalito for lunch.  We stopped at Fish., where we enjoyed clam chowder, tilapia fish tacos, and homemade pasta with fresh grilled tilapia and a garlic-butter sauce.  The food was excellent, and the restaurant was casual and right by the local boat dock.

Lots of Big Trees

After lunch we went to Muir Woods.  It was a free day, so the small parking lot and the equally small shoulder along the road were packed.  We decided to skip the headache of trying to find a parking spot, and instead caught the shuttle bus.  This allowed us to park at a park-and-ride, and then ride the bus into the park.

Once we were at the woods, we enjoyed walking around, looking at the giant trees and just enjoying the green scenery.

After getting back to our car, we began the drive to Yosemite.  First we drove through Oakland; Oakland always seems to be busy and bustling, and this time was no exception.  Once we got through Oakland, however, we were able to make good time to Yosemite.  We staid at the Comfort Inn in Oakhurst, CA, just south of Yosemite.

We got to drive through the park on our way to our hotel; we stopped at the Valley Floor for a late evening walk to Yosemite Falls, and then stopped at an overlook to see the night sky.  We also saw the space station go by.