View from the Other Side

View from the Other Side
            Standing under the shade of a cypress tree, I look out to see a flock of brown pelicans flying in front of blue sky and puffy white clouds. The blue water below is marked by white diagonal lines, sailboats leaning in competition.
            Looming in the back is the Golden Gate Bridge, beyond that, the skyline of San Francisco. I hear only the sound of the breeze through the branches of the cypress grove, and the occasional bird song. The densely packed city feels like a thousand miles away.
            Living in a city can be exciting in both good ways and bad. Exploring historical sites, experiencing cultural events, and getting to know various neighborhood shops and restaurants can keep a person busy for years. But urban problems can pop up in the cities we love, and they do: Noise, homelessness, crime, parking and traffic problems.
            It’s important to step away from city life and immerse ourselves in nature. The Marin Headlands—where I stand looking back at the city across the water—is just a short drive across the Golden Gate Bridge.
            Getting a bit of distance from our usual space and looking back from across the way helps put our lives and the world in perspective. Keep putting one foot forward!
            This week’s Hike Notes, Bicentennial Campground-Marin Headlands, a spot where people can have an overnight camping experience or just a picnic area visit, with stunning views.
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New this week:
Hike Notes 205: Bicentennial Campground-Marin Headlands