Cycle
Day 30
This morning I went and snagged a couple of breakfast sandwiches from down the street for my Warmshowers host and I. Afterward, I explored more since I only had a 30ish mile day ahead of me. I first sent off to check out the Lands End area and hike around. It turned out my father and relative was coming to San Francisco for lunch, so I decided to join them before I left for Half Moon Bay. I met them at the ferry station, and we walked to the Tadich Grill, my relative’s favorite spot to eat when he was working downtown. He hadn’t been to the restaurant in years, so it was nice to share that moment with him.
After our goodbye, I set off to meet my host again and ride part of the way to Half Moon Bay with him. Unfortunately, late afternoon was peak traffic, and it was a little freaky getting out of the city. We eventually made it out without much chaos, and we parted ways. I was back on the road by myself again, stoked to reach my campsite for the night. This is an area of California I have never seen before so I can’t wait to continue down and into Big Sur.
Arriving in Half Moon Bay that evening, just before sunset was euphoric! I probably laid around on the beach for an hour watching the sun disappear behind the horizon. Luckily for me, the beach was about 50 feet from my tent, so I was able to listen to the waves crash all night.
A few other cyclists were sitting around a fire, so I joined them and chatted with them. It was odd now, being the cyclist at the campsite with many days and miles under my belt. I felt like I had stories to share and advice to give to those just beginning their journey. They were still figuring out where all their items were packed and getting their legs used to the everyday lifestyle of pedaling all day. This was something I am grateful to overcome; I no longer get sore after riding all day.
I am so stoked to ride these last few days, I have big mileage days planned and should hit my first 90-mile day when I leave Santa Cruz and head into Big Sur. My legs feel great, and I don’t know if it’s the feeling of almost being done, the fact that I am solo again (and healthy), or that I am going into an area I have never seen before, but I cannot contain my energy for what is to come. I am itching to get on the bike and keep moving south again.
I am glad I was able to spend two days in San Francisco, I loved biking across the city, looking at all the homes, parks, and stores. Biking up twin peaks earlier today was a major highlight of my time in the city. Viewing the bay area from 925 feet up provided the best panoramic view. I never considered myself a city guy, but San Francisco has a spot in my heart.
Tomorrow I will set off for Santa Cruz!
Stats from today:
- 46 miles biked
- 2,450 vertical feet climbed
- 5 avocados purchased for $1
- 1 amazing sunset
