Cruis'n USA - California

For 2 weeks, my buddy and I hit the road looking for adventure and a new perspective on life. The California experience included everything from seeing an old Copenhagen friend in San Francisco, climbing to the top of one of the world's highest waterfalls in Yosemite, hugging the mighty Redwood trees and witnessing the aftermath of a careless motorcyclist who wrecked off a ravine.



San Francisco was just wonderful. My friend Matt who I met on my Copenhagen trip was kind enough to let us stay in his classic Victorian home that was built in 1903. Nothing beats being shown around by locals. We did everything from The Fisherman's Wharf at Pier 39 to visiting the Farmers' Markets and the Golden Gate Park. We drove down Lombard St as if we were kids again, all giddy and such as everyone took our picture. I even saw a naked man sitting outside of a restaurant downtown. As if the steep hills weren't enough, this city is a blast.

Victorian Houses in front of the city skyscrapers.

A view of the Golden Gate Bridge.

Yosemite was nothing short of amazing. The rock formations, gushing waterfalls, and steep cliffs could occupy your interest for days. We had one day to make the most of it so we chose to hike the 4.2 Upper Falls trail that reached over 6,000 feet above sea level. The hike up the mountain was the most strenuous hike I've been on and I can feel every bit of it in my leg muscles.There were several people who didn't make it to the top and there were a few people twice my age who made me look like an amateur. The satisfactory of looking out over Yosemite was priceless.  Dipping my feet in the ice cold water before the water made its way down to the bottom was refreshing and much needed after a 4 mile hike upward. I can't wait to go back and conquer the other trails!

I conquered the Upper Falls Trail!

The Redwoods were as magnificent as you could imagine. You really get a sense of how small you are when standing up next to one of these massive trees. Even after a tree dies, so much life is growing and thriving on it. About 10 minutes away from Oregon on an extremely curvy road, two motorcyclists pass us going 85+ mph. I looked at Michael and said I bet we would see one of them on the ground up ahead. About 10 minutes later, that would have been the case if the biker hadn't been thrown from the ravine. We were one of the first people to arrive to the scene but left after the police were called and traffic was blocked. I will probably never know if he lived or not but the odds are not in his favor. 

Hugging the mighty Redwood Tree

Inside of a carved out tree

The trip has been great so far. It's nice to get away from work and your responsibilities in order to do a little soul searching. I never realized how beautiful the United States really is. Going on this road trip was a great way to mark a wonderful 25 years of life. I wonder what I'll do for 30. :)

Off to Oregon and Seattle!