Image for San Francisco cable car system

San Francisco cable car system

The San Francisco cable car system is an iconic mode of transportation that uses underground cables to pull specially equipped streetcars along designated routes. The cables run continuously in underground tunnels, and the cars have grip mechanisms that clutch onto the moving cable to propel forward. Operators manually control the grip to start, stop, or slow the car. This system, operating since the late 19th century, is known for navigating steep hills and offering scenic views of the city. It functions as both a practical transit option and a historical symbol, attracting visitors and locals alike.