Golden Gate Bridge: Over Coming Fears

Golden Gate Bridge - San Francisco, California 

A view of the Golden Gate Bridge from the Bridge Pavilion which showcases the bridge's rich history. It is just a short walk to the East sidewalk on the South side of the bridge. 

A view of the bridge from Battery Lancaster. The archway, "South Pylons" over my shoulder, was built so they didn't need to destroy Fort Point which sits below the archway. 



My three biggest fears come to life as I began the trek to the South Tower along the east sidewalk. Water - Heights - Bridges

Pushing my fears aside I decide I will at least try to make it to the South Tower. 

The Golden Gate is supported by 250 pairs of vertical steel "ropes" which loop over the massive main cable. I am becoming braver with each step towards the South Tower. 

Not only is a hat an important accessory in a topless Jeep but also walking up on a windy bridge. The hair blowing in your face could be a tragic end. 

On the other side of this tower is a straight drop to the turbulent currents of the Pacific Ocean meeting the San Francisco Bay. It took a little time for me to make my way to the edge of the bridge.

I did make it to the rail and was able to peer out over the San Francisco Bay. It is mind over matter but I was still afraid. At least not the paralyzing fear I have had in the past. 

South Tower: 500 feet above the roadway. This tower was the first ever built in open water sitting 1,100 feet from the shoreline.

Even looking up at great heights puts a little wobble in my step. 

This is me trying to be bad ass.  

This is how I look taking my selfies. I do believe I embarrass my husband sometimes. 

This International Orange bridge is 1.7 miles from end to end and was open to automobile traffic May 28, 1937.  

Crossing this beautiful bridge to the North takes us to Sonoma County where we will see the gorgeous Pacific Coast, and the miles of vineyards through the rolling hills of Northern California.

Chapter 3 - Pacific Coast Drive