Heh. My wife & in-laws went with me to watch the Perseids in the Santa Cruz mountains. While we were there, we met a couple young women who had Ubered in from San Francisco. They got there fine, but there was no cell reception where we were, so their apps didn't work, so they were trying to find someone to hitchhike home with. We had a full car (and were going the other way) so we couldn't take them, but I hope they managed to get home safely.

Sure, and if I shared your hobbies, I'd probably have trouble wrapping my head around how people could live without a license too.

For me, the natural areas would be pretty much the only reason I could possibly think of that would make me even consider living in the Bay Area.

That's my main use of the car in California, trips to local hills to hike and monthly trips to the Sierra/other outdoor places.

Renting a car is actually very cheap once you turn 25. Renting a car on the weekends, every weekend is also cheaper than owning a car.

Sure. Subject to the other reasons you may want your own vehicle. But the discussion was about not having a driver's license. I fully agree that, for a lot of people, using some combination of rentals, Zipcar, and ride hail services makes a lot of sense.

Or do a tour. Or cycle. It feels good enjoying those areas and not polluting them.