Almost as recognizable as the Golden Gate Bridge are the city's funicular rail systems, more commonly known as "Cable Cars." Yes, these are a San Franicsco invention; Andrew Hallidie created the first of these cable-driven railcars over 125 years ago, made necessary because of San Francisco's steep slopes.

The real articles are the clearly recognizable motorless rail carriages propelled by an arm that reaches below ground level to a moving cable that runs the whole length of the route, hence the name. But there are many immitation motor-coaches, framed to look like cable cars, that also escort tourists around the city. (In fact, these coaches have become so popular, they've been seen popping up in other cities as well.)

But nothing is quite the same as the real thing.

Market to Van Ness

The California line runs east-west from the Embarcadero ferry terminal to Van Ness street. This is actually the less-traveled line, since neither end is a major tourist attraction. The lines to wait for the two Powell lines, however, are frequently quite long... To experience the ride up San Francisco's steep hills, take the California line, then ride Muni's F line (vintage trolleys) to Fisherman's Wharf, Pier 39, and other tourist attractions.

The other line (two lines actually) go from Powell and Market streets (near Union Square) to Fisherman's Wharf. The Powell-Mason line trundles past Russian Hill and runs briefly along Columbus avenue. Here we start our ascent toward Russian Hill, leaving the Powell-Market turntable and Union Square.

Leaving Powell and Market

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On the other hand, the Powell-Hyde line takes you to Ghirardelli Square at the other end of Fisherman's wharf passing Lombard street ("the crookedest street in the world".) Needless to say, both ends of this line have extremely long waits, so if you have your heart set on this ride, be sure to allow a lot of extra time just standing and waiting.

Other sites: cablecarmuseum.com • sfcabelcar.com