49 Mile Drive Google Maps Route Details and Fun Facts

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The 49 Mile Drive in Pebble Beach is a scenic route that's been a favorite among tourists and locals alike for decades. This route is a 17-mile stretch of winding road that takes you through some of the most stunning coastal scenery in California.

One of the most interesting things about the 49 Mile Drive is that it's not actually 49 miles long - it's 17 miles long. The name likely comes from the fact that it's a long and winding road that feels like it goes on forever.

The route takes you through some of the most exclusive and expensive real estate in the country, with homes and golf courses that are the envy of anyone who's ever dreamed of living the high life.

Planning Your Drive

The 49 Mile Scenic Drive offers a free, printable map on its website, which includes details on every stop along the route, covering 37 spots.

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The quickest way to complete the drive takes about 4 hours, but this assumes you only stop for a minute at each spot. If you want to take your time and enjoy the views, you can complete the route in a day with some photo-taking and lunch breaks.

The route is a loop, so you can start at any point and end up back at City Hall, making it easy to pick up where you left off the next day.

Scenic Drive

The 49-Mile Scenic Drive is a must-do when visiting San Francisco. Created in 1938 by the Downtown Association, it was originally designed to highlight the city's beauty and promote it as a tourist destination.

The route starts at City Hall and takes you along many of San Francisco's historic and iconic landmarks. You can download a PDF map of the route to help guide you.

The scenic drive has undergone many changes over the years, but its purpose remains the same. It's a great way to see the city's famous attractions, such as the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island.

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If you're not driving, don't worry! The 49-Mile Scenic Route is an alternative that's designed to be accessible to non-drivers. It starts at the San Francisco Chronicle building and takes you through neighborhoods like Ingleside and Bernal Heights.

The quickest way to complete the scenic drive takes about 4 hours of driving, but it's recommended to spend more time exploring the city's hidden gems. You can complete the route in a day if you stop for short breaks, but 3 days is a more leisurely pace.

Remember, the scenic drive is a loop, so you can start at any point and end up back at City Hall. Don't be afraid to take your time and enjoy the views – it's a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Reroutings and Sign Update

The Golden Gate Drive has undergone several reroutings over the years, so it's essential to know the current path to ensure a smooth journey.

Control of Treasure Island was transferred to the U.S. Navy in 1940, and the drive was rerouted for the first time. This change effectively closed the route along with the civilian access to the Presidio.

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In 1947, the drive reopened with an expanded southeastern segment, which continued south past Mission San Francisco de Asís to Excelsior, McLaren Park, and Visitacion Valley. This new route returned via the Bayshore Freeway and Bryant Street to The Embarcadero.

The drive has been rerouted again, this time by 1976. The initial segment now moved west from Van Ness Avenue through Japantown, showcasing the recently completed Japan Center.

A complex loop through Chinatown was also introduced, which included a trip up Nob Hill. The route now turned in Lincoln Park to reach Cliff House via Geary Boulevard instead of Fort Miley.

In 1999, the route was modified once more. The drive now begins at Civic Center Plaza rather than on Van Ness Avenue, making it easier to navigate the city.

The San Francisco Department of Parking and Traffic manages the signs along the route, which have become a popular target for theft.

The Drive Details

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The 49 Mile Drive route is a loop, so you can start at any point and end up back where you began if you follow the entire route.

You can complete the route in just 4 hours of driving, but it's recommended to stop at each spot for about a minute.

Stopping for 10-15 minutes at some spots and taking an hour for lunch will allow you to complete the route in a day.

However, I would suggest spending 3 days covering the key locations and re-visit some of your favorite spots if you have more time.

The route includes 37 spots, and it might take a few days to complete if you stop at every one, like Alcatraz Island which requires several hours to visit.

The route is a free, printable map available on the 49 Mile Drive website, which includes full details on every stop.

Fun Facts

The 49 mile drive on Google Maps is a real thing, and it's actually a 49-mile loop in the San Francisco Bay Area.

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This loop takes you through some of the most scenic areas in the Bay Area, including the Pacific Coast Highway and the Dumbarton Bridge.

Did you know that the 49 mile drive is named after the 49ers, the gold prospectors who flocked to California in the mid-1800s?

The drive starts in San Francisco and takes you through the cities of Palo Alto and Fremont, giving you a glimpse into the region's rich history and culture.

The Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most beautiful parts of the drive, with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the California coastline.

You'll also pass by the Dumbarton Bridge, which offers breathtaking views of the bay and the surrounding landscape.

One of the unique features of the 49 mile drive is that it takes you through a variety of different landscapes, from urban cities to scenic coastal areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I see how many miles a route is on Google Maps?

To measure the distance of a route on Google Maps, right-click on your starting point and select Measure distance, then click anywhere on the map to create a path. The distance will be displayed on the card at the bottom once you've finished creating your route.

What is the most scenic drive in San Francisco?

The most scenic drive in San Francisco is the 49-Mile Scenic Drive, a famous route that takes you through stunning coastal views and iconic landmarks. This drive is a must-experience for anyone visiting San Francisco, offering breathtaking views and a unique perspective on the city's natural beauty.

Can you track a route on Google Maps?

Yes, you can track a route on Google Maps using their GPS tracking software. This feature helps navigate and save time, whether walking, cycling, or driving.

Glen Hackett

Writer

Glen Hackett is a skilled writer with a passion for crafting informative and engaging content. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for breaking down complex topics, Glen has established himself as a trusted voice in the tech industry. His writing expertise spans a range of subjects, including Azure Certifications, where he has developed a comprehensive understanding of the platform and its various applications.

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