Spire (Andy Goldsworthy) San Francisco
Andy Goldsworthy's Spire: a towering, ephemeral sculpture in San Francisco's Presidio, symbolizing nature's cycles.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical, peaceful experience
Spire (Andy Goldsworthy) San Francisco
Best Time
Magical, peaceful experience
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Andy Goldsworthy's Spire: a towering, ephemeral sculpture in San Francisco's Presidio, symbolizing nature's cycles.
"A peaceful place to sit, reflect, and feel very, very at peace. 
🎯 Visit during Golden Hour
The light during golden hour creates a magical atmosphere for viewing and photographing Spire.
👟 Wear comfortable shoes
You'll be walking on trails, so comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the Presidio.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Spire Sculpture
Presidio National Park
A towering, ephemeral artwork by Andy Goldsworthy, symbolizing forest rejuvenation and the cycle of decay.
Lovers' Lane Trail
Presidio National Park
An enchanting trail connecting the Presidio Gate to the Main Post, perfect for a scenic and reflective walk.
El Polin Spring
Presidio National Park
The starting point for many visitors to Spire, offering a glimpse of the sculpture emerging from the woods.
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Embrace the Journey
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Visit during Golden Hour
The light during golden hour creates a magical atmosphere for viewing and photographing Spire.
👟 Wear comfortable shoes
You'll be walking on trails, so comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the Presidio.
💧 Stay hydrated
Bring water, especially on warmer days, as there are no snack bars nearby.
🌳 Explore beyond Spire
The Presidio has much to offer, including Lovers' Lane and Inspiration Point.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Visit during Golden Hour
The light during golden hour creates a magical atmosphere for viewing and photographing Spire.
👟 Wear comfortable shoes
You'll be walking on trails, so comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the Presidio.
💧 Stay hydrated
Bring water, especially on warmer days, as there are no snack bars nearby.
🌳 Explore beyond Spire
The Presidio has much to offer, including Lovers' Lane and Inspiration Point.
🤫 Seek quiet reflection
Visit on a weekday afternoon for a serene experience and to truly appreciate the art.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Spire to be a unique and thought-provoking art installation within the beautiful Presidio. While some are initially surprised by its construction, most appreciate its ephemeral nature and the opportunity for quiet reflection. The surrounding park offers a rich experience beyond the sculpture itself.
"From the bottom of the hill at the El Polin Spring you can see it sticking out of the woods. When you get close it does look like a solid burned tree, possibly by lightning, and later trimmed. But it's actually a series of trees bolted together which I thought was a little disappointing at first honestly. After thinking about it tho, the installation drew my attention and hiked up to see it because I thought it was interesting, and it was. I missed the information sign describing it but others have photos as well :p"
Kyler DuVall
"I love Andy Goldsworthy's work. His art is usually closely intertwined with his photography as a way of capturing the ephemeral nature of his creations. Some of his pieces only exist for minutes before they are gone.
So it might seem odd that he created Spire, a far more permanent installation. But the more I thought about it, I realized this exhibit is hardly permanent. It's already starting to decay, succumbing to insects, rot, and even a fire in 2020. Eventually it will no longer be safe to continue standing and will be removed. This is part of its beauty and Goldsworthy's intention.
It will live on like all of his work...in photographs. Only now, documented by viewers, thousands of people who have stumbled across this beautiful tower constructed from the dead carcasses of invasive trees planted long ago.
If you're in the Presidio for any reason, take a few minutes to stop by Spire. Sit for a while and examine what it means to you...before it no longer exists."
Steve Ramsey
"This area is beautiful and very well worth the hike to the Spire. Although the piece was burned a few years back, it is still magnificent and a peaceful place to explore. There are many places to visit along the trail after a visit to this installation."
Elise Langiano
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Spire is located in the Presidio National Park. While there isn't a dedicated parking lot for Spire itself, many visitors park near El Polin Spring or along Lovers' Lane. Public transportation options are also available to reach the Presidio.
Parking can be limited, especially on weekends. It's recommended to arrive early or consider parking further away and enjoying a walk. Some suggest parking near the south end of the installation.
Yes, several Muni bus lines serve the Presidio. Check the Muni website for routes and schedules that get you closest to the Lovers' Lane area.
The trails leading to Spire are generally natural and can be uneven. While some parts might be manageable, it's best to check current trail conditions for accessibility.
Spire is located east of the Lovers' Lane Trail. You can often see it sticking out of the woods from the bottom of the hill near El Polin Spring.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Spire is an outdoor sculpture located within the Presidio National Park, which is free to enter.
As Spire is an outdoor installation in a national park, it is accessible during park hours, typically from sunrise to sunset.
The Presidio National Park does not have an entrance fee, making Spire and its surroundings freely accessible to all visitors.
Yes, Spire is an outdoor installation and can be visited year-round, though weather conditions may vary.
While there aren't specific guided tours for Spire, the Presidio offers various ranger programs and events that might cover its art installations.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, just before sunset, offers the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photographing Spire. Weekday afternoons can also provide softer light and fewer crowds.
Drone usage in national parks is highly regulated. It's essential to check the official National Park Service guidelines for the Presidio regarding drone operation.
Any camera, from a smartphone to a professional DSLR, can capture the beauty of Spire. The key is to play with angles and light.
Absolutely! Spire is a popular spot for photography, and visitors are encouraged to capture its unique form and its interaction with the surrounding nature.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or videography may require permits. Always be respectful of other visitors.
🎫 🌲 Onsite Experience
Spire is constructed from felled eucalyptus trees, bolted together to form a towering, spiraling structure.
Spire symbolizes forest rejuvenation and the natural cycle of growth, decay, and renewal. It's a testament to Goldsworthy's focus on ephemeral art.
A visit to Spire itself can be brief, but allow at least 1-2 hours to explore the surrounding trails like Lovers' Lane and enjoy the Presidio.
Restroom facilities are available in various parts of the Presidio, but may not be immediately adjacent to Spire. Plan accordingly.
While more permanent than some of Goldsworthy's work, Spire is subject to natural decay, insects, and environmental factors, making its existence inherently ephemeral.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no snack bars directly at Spire. It's recommended to pack a lunch or visit one of the cafes or restaurants within the Presidio.
Picnicking is a great idea! Find a scenic spot in the Presidio to enjoy your meal. Remember to pack out all your trash.
The Presidio offers various dining options, from casual cafes to more formal restaurants, catering to different tastes and budgets.
Yes, it's highly recommended to bring your own food and plenty of water, especially if you plan to spend a few hours exploring the park.
Food truck availability can vary. It's best to check local listings or park information for any current food truck locations within the Presidio.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider incorporating a visit to Inspiration Point for breathtaking views or Fort Point for a dose of history. The open spaces and natural beauty of the Presidio provide a wonderful backdrop for family adventures. Remember to bring snacks and water, as amenities can be spread out.
🚶♀️ Nature & Art Enthusiasts
Beyond 'Spire,' the Presidio offers a wealth of natural beauty and other art installations. Explore the diverse ecosystems, from coastal scrub to eucalyptus forests, and discover other hidden artistic gems. The park is a living gallery, constantly evolving with the seasons and the artist's interventions.
+1📸 Photographers
Experiment with different angles, focal lengths, and compositions. Capture the details of the wood, the scale of the sculpture against the trees, and the interplay of light and shadow. Don't forget to explore the Lovers' Lane Trail and other scenic spots in the Presidio for a broader portfolio of your visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Andy Goldsworthy
'Spire' in the Presidio is a more enduring piece, constructed from felled eucalyptus trees. However, even this sculpture is subject to the forces of nature, succumbing to decay, insects, and even fire. This ongoing process of change is integral to the artwork's meaning, highlighting the continuous cycle of life and death in the environment. Visitors are encouraged to observe and reflect on this process, becoming part of the documentation of the artwork's existence.
Goldsworthy's installations in the Presidio, including 'Spire' and 'Wood Line,' invite a slower, more mindful engagement with the landscape. They encourage visitors to look closely at the materials, the forms, and the way the art interacts with its surroundings. The experience is not just about seeing the sculpture, but about walking with it, observing its subtle changes over time, and appreciating the artist's profound connection to the natural world.
+1Exploring the Presidio
Other notable spots within the Presidio include Inspiration Point, providing panoramic vistas of the bay, and Fort Point, a historic fortification offering unique perspectives of the Golden Gate Bridge. The park also features Mountain Lake Park, a serene area with a lake, and Baker Beach, known for its iconic views. The sheer variety of attractions makes the Presidio a destination in itself, perfect for a day of exploration.
For those interested in history, the Presidio offers insights into its military past with preserved buildings and exhibits. The park is also a haven for wildlife and a crucial green space in the urban environment. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a nature lover, a history buff, or simply seeking a tranquil escape, the Presidio has something to offer everyone.
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