The views at Battery Spencer Military Bunker are some of the best in the Bay. You're treated to an up-close-and-personal vantage point of the Golden Gate Bridge with the rest of San Francisco and the Presidio behind it. When there's fog, it creates a fiery look that's full of vibrancy and color.
Plan
Overview
Skill level
Moderate
Accessbility
Public Location
Hours
Anytime
Fee
Free
Pack
Wide-angle lens (29mm)
Model
Shoes you can hike in/don't mind getting dirty
Windbreaker
How to get there
N37° 49' 37.6367"W122° 28' 50.2903"
This photo was taken near the Battery Spencer Military Bunker, with a view of the Golden Gate Bridge. The best way to reach this location is by car.
I recommend parking anywhere along Conzelman Road and then after you've parked, walk out to Battery Spencer. From there, you'll have to cross the fence furthest south and hike down to the bottom bunker. The hike from the top of Battery Spencer down is about 10 minutes, but it is steep so be careful and make sure you're wearing sturdy shoes.
Tips
When to go
Best season
All months
Best time
Night
As long as there's fog, you'll be able to visit Battery Spencer during any month of the year. In the summer and fall months, you'll have a better chance at capturing fog.
You'll be able to photograph the illuminated lights from the bridge once the sun dips behind the horizon.
Field tips
The weather is always hard to predict at this location, and often times it's very windy. I suggest layering and bringing a windbreaker so you're protected.
Make sure that the lens you're using isn't too narrow. If it is, you won't be able to feature the Golden Gate Bridge.
I like bringing along a model to work with in the bunkers. They add a sense of scale, as well as a focal point.
Try to find interesting ways to add depth to your photo. Get lower on the ground and incorporate some of the landscape in the foreground or get closer to the bunker so you can snap the textures of the structure.
Current weather
San Francisco, California
Partially cloudy
50o
F
Sat
58o
46o
Sun
58o
53o
Mon
54o
51o
Tue
52o
47o
Wed
52o
46o
Blue Hour
14:35
50o
Partially cloudy
Sunrise
15:02
50o
Partially cloudy
Golden Hour
01:12
50o
Partially cloudy
Sunset
01:48
50o
Partially cloudy
Do nearby
There are more hiking and biking trails here, like Slacker Hill.
You can also walk across the Golden Gate Bridge, which is something I highly recommend doing if you haven't.