Autumn is for Walking!
by  Patricia Kutza

Most people have a favorite season and I am no exception.  I love autumn in northern California.  Raised in Chicago, when the seasons fell in lockstep (color display in October and leaves gone shortly afterwards), defining the essence of northern California’s autumn season is an exercise in acute observation.  With such an eclectic mixture of foliage, no two California streets tell the same fall season story:  many trees retain their leaves or don’t change colors until January.  Some years we can depend on a healthy rainy season, while other years find us praying for rain.

One feature that seems to be constant over the years is better air quality during these autumn months.  The air smells fresher and the horizons appear sharper.  What better invitation to eschew your car and talk a long walk!

To enjoy incomparable 360-degree vistas of the San Francisco and East Bay, head directly to Angel Island.  I am constantly surprised to meet Bay Area residents who have never visited this place!  Easily accessible year-round by ferries (Tiburon and San Francisco) or by private boat, Angel Island is a walker’s paradise.   There are over 13 miles of foot trails and fire roads that circle the entire island.  For hikers who want to build a little sweat, there is also a trail that leads to the 788-foot summit of Mt. Livermore.  Whatever path you choose, you will be rewarded with panoramic views.  Maps are available on the Island during the tourist season (March – November) or by writing the Angel Island Association in advance of your trip. (www.angelisland.org)

Are you hosting a reunion and want to introduce San Francisco to your out-of-town guests?  Consider using San Francisco City Hikes (www.cityhikes.com) They offer over twenty hike itineraries that include such unique areas as the Fillmore district, Fort Mason and the Marina, China Basin,  Dogpatch and the Mission. 

Most folks associate Painted Ladies with the incredible assortment of Victorian-era houses in San Francisco.  But places like Petaluma, just 35 miles north of San Francisco, can hold its own not only when it comes to architecture but also proximity to wineries, wildlife and up-and-coming restaurants.  Plan ahead and call/write for their walking tour maps (www.visitpetaluma.com).  Then amble through its picturesque neighborhoods and waterfront, enjoying this less-known but no-less-interesting destination.

Patricia Kutza is a member of the TravelTalkRADIO team and regularly contributes to TravelTalkRadio and Internet programming.