As mentioned, even if one has to 'wing it'.
We have enjoyed the Bay area very much in the past and especially, recently. Of course, we are not talking of San Francisco but rather the rural areas and small towns. In fact, between San Ramon, Dublin, Fremont, Newark (not NJ), and a few others, the developments of the region have captured the beautiful surrounding mountains, the lakes and views by establishing many parks encompassing mountains. The sights of the bigger cities, from distance (always), are impressive.
I do show my prejudice, but I do not have a desire to visit Central San Francisco. However, I easily concede that observing the bridges, buildings, and bay from distance, especially where open spaces and forests exist between our position and the City, are magnificent. What a wonderful paradox. One is able to feel and be completely safe from the violence of the big cities, not hear any noise at all and yet, view the beauty of the metropolis and surrounding water, admire the amazing bridges, enjoy the dunes while avoiding traffic completely. It almost feels artificial, but there is an important requirement or restriction though: One has to hike to the various peaks to attain great views. Well, for us, that’s a real pleasure and our main objective.
I might have exaggerated by dismissing the dangers outside of the cities in dealing with traffic and thugs. I did not mention that one comes into contact frequently with cattle—some of those cows get a little aggressive when caring for their calves. As for bulls... Of course, placing of feet is critical unless dung-covered boots and ankles are not a concern. Snakes are a general worry, especially for one of us, although the danger can never be exaggerated when in certain overgrown places.
It reminds us of an occasion when we came across a couple (rattlers) that appeared to be mating. We cannot swear by it because after all, perhaps they were only good friends. It was most interesting as we had never experienced such a visual. Fortunately, we stood above them although less than thirty feet distant and as they moved toward us, following coitus interruptus, struggled to grip the surface, thus hampering their advance. It had obviously been a vigorous session. We derived no pleasure at disturbing them but how does one explain this and apologize to a slithering couple. Contrary to popular belief, it’s not always easy copulating...um...coping on the slopes.
Part-way up the trail as we head down through the forest and continue the ascent thereafter.
San Francisco Bay (extension) in the distance.
San Antonio Reservoir from Mission Peak.
Approaching the peak, a beautiful view of Fremont and Newark, California.
Part-way up we changed direction and left the 'granny trail' as one fellow referred to it. We preferred the more difficult route which is a trail rather than a road; it's very quiet and of course, steeper as it has a couple of descending places, adding to the elevation gain. For the record, "'granny trail' is tough in-and-of-itself," says Granny Jenni. (I enjoyed using that form of address as my father's mother was 'Granny Jenny', too.)
At last, the peak.
Near the commencement, we enjoyed the view and especially, the tree.
Enjoyed 'a bird's-eye-view' of the water and surround. The 'pink' water/sand is a chemical reaction to salt and other substances in the soil.
As we headed to the tower, the trail curved away toward the peak, changing our destination for the better.
A view of the bay as we reach Mission Peak.
The I-880 freeway passes through Fremont and by-passes a few ponds.
Many pylons, bridges, road, islands and the odd bit of water, too.
Over the years, the concept of enhanced perspective from height has been fascinating one for us to admire. (The road below is the popular track which we hopped off as mentioned earlier.)
At the end of the hike, Jen summons a li(y)ft.
Cheers,
San Francisco Bay (extension) in the distance.
San Antonio Reservoir from Mission Peak.
Approaching the peak, a beautiful view of Fremont and Newark, California.
Part-way up we changed direction and left the 'granny trail' as one fellow referred to it. We preferred the more difficult route which is a trail rather than a road; it's very quiet and of course, steeper as it has a couple of descending places, adding to the elevation gain. For the record, "'granny trail' is tough in-and-of-itself," says Granny Jenni. (I enjoyed using that form of address as my father's mother was 'Granny Jenny', too.)
At last, the peak.
Near the commencement, we enjoyed the view and especially, the tree.
Enjoyed 'a bird's-eye-view' of the water and surround. The 'pink' water/sand is a chemical reaction to salt and other substances in the soil.
As we headed to the tower, the trail curved away toward the peak, changing our destination for the better.
A view of the bay as we reach Mission Peak.
The I-880 freeway passes through Fremont and by-passes a few ponds.
Many pylons, bridges, road, islands and the odd bit of water, too.
Over the years, the concept of enhanced perspective from height has been fascinating one for us to admire. (The road below is the popular track which we hopped off as mentioned earlier.)
At the end of the hike, Jen summons a li(y)ft.
Cheers,
Jenni and Jeffrey
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