Christmas Tree Point

Overview

Perched gracefully on the northeast edge of San Francisco's iconic Twin Peaks, Christmas Tree Point stands as a renowned lookout, offering visitors breathtaking panoramic vistas of the city and its surrounding bay. This promontory, easily accessible with a dedicated parking area, is nestled on the northern summit of Twin Peaks. From its vantage point, approximately 70 feet below the peak's true summit, guests are treated to sweeping 180-degree views that encompass famous landmarks such as Alcatraz Island, the majestic Golden Gate Bridge, and the bustling downtown San Francisco skyline.

On clear days, the expansive views stretch far beyond the immediate cityscape, extending north to Cobb Mountain and southeast to Santa Ana Mountain, sometimes even revealing the distant Santa Clara Valley. Beyond its spectacular scenery, Christmas Tree Point is an integral part of the Twin Peaks Natural Area, a 31-acre park meticulously managed by the San Francisco Recreation and Parks Department. The area's unique topography also influences local weather patterns, with its western slopes often shrouded in Pacific winds and fog, while the eastern side enjoys more sunshine and warmth.

History & Cultural Background

The intriguing name 'Christmas Tree Point' traces its origins back to a festive and ambitious yuletide promotional campaign launched in 1927 by the San Francisco Examiner newspaper. The 'Monarch of the Dailies,' as the Examiner proudly called itself, orchestrated the erection of an enormous 'Forest Monarch' Christmas tree atop this very point. This colossal 120-foot fir, sourced from Mendocino County, was a true undertaking. It had to be cut into several sections, stripped of its branches, and transported in pieces to Twin Peaks, where city workers meticulously reassembled it on site.

With full cooperation from city government and various organizations, the tree became a dazzling spectacle, adorned with thousands of lights, colored streamers, ornaments, and even artificial snow. Illuminated nightly from sunset until three in the morning, its radiant glow was reportedly visible across the entire Bay Area, from Marin County to the East Bay. However, this grand tradition proved to be short-lived. A growing public movement against the practice of cutting down live trees for Christmas, championed by activist Clarence F. Pratt and the Outdoor Christmas Tree Association, gained significant traction. Pratt's organization advocated for decorating living trees, famously calling the felling of Christmas trees a 'slaughter of the innocents.' This shift in public sentiment led to the establishment of a new city tradition, with the official San Francisco Christmas tree lighting moving to a living Monterey Pine at McLaren Lodge in Golden Gate Park by 1931. The Examiner Tree, as it was known, only graced Christmas Tree Point for a couple of years. Interestingly, the San Francisco Police Department made a brief revival of the tradition in 1950, erecting another tree on the point in what appeared to be a lighthearted rivalry with the Fire Department's annual station decorating contest.

What Makes It Special

Christmas Tree Point is truly special for its dual appeal: it offers some of the most spectacular, uninterrupted panoramic views of San Francisco, while also holding a unique place in the city's historical and environmental tapestry. The sheer scope of the vista, encompassing the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, downtown's towering skyscrapers, and the expansive Bay, is a constant draw for both first-time visitors and seasoned locals. Its name, a charming relic of a bygone Christmas tradition, adds a layer of historical intrigue, inviting curiosity about its festive past.

Beyond the urban panorama, the point is a vital part of the Twin Peaks Natural Area. This protected habitat is a sanctuary for diverse wildlife, most notably the endangered Mission Blue Butterfly. The conservation efforts here make it one of the few places in the Bay Area where this delicate species thrives, adding an ecological dimension to its significance. Furthermore, situated on one of San Francisco's highest natural points, it offers a fascinating perspective on the city's topography and its inherent connection to the natural world.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

• The inaugural 1927 Christmas tree was a logistical marvel, transported from Mendocino County as a bisected trunk and separate branches, then meticulously 'rebuilt' on site, akin to a giant construction project. Workers drilled holes into the trunk to reattach the boughs, earning it comparisons to a 'Lincoln Log structure' or even 'Frankenstein's monster.'
• To amplify the festive spirit of the 1927 lighting, Shell Oil reportedly constructed a 50-foot-tall Santa Claus gateway leading up to the point. Children from orphanages and various clubs were even ferried to the site to witness the grand unveiling.
• The lasting impact of activist Clarence F. Pratt's campaign against cutting trees for Christmas is still evident today. His passionate arguments, labeling the practice a 'slaughter of the innocents,' directly contributed to the shift in San Francisco's official Christmas tree tradition from Christmas Tree Point to a living tree in Golden Gate Park.
• Despite the absence of a recurring Christmas tree, the name 'Christmas Tree Point' and 'Christmas Tree Point Road' have endured on maps and in local lore, a testament to that spectacular, albeit brief, holiday era.
• A lesser-known but crucial detail is the presence of a nearby reservoir that serves as a vital water source for the San Francisco Fire Department's high-pressure fire suppression system, established after the devastating 1906 earthquake and fire.
• Historically, the Spanish settlers who first arrived in the region bestowed upon Twin Peaks the evocative name 'Los Pechos de la Chola,' or 'Breasts of the Maiden,' reflecting the hills' distinctive twin-like appearance.

Visitor Perspective

Christmas Tree Point consistently ranks as a highly popular destination for both San Francisco residents and visitors, primarily due to its accessible and astounding views. The main parking area is conveniently located at the point, making it easy to pull over and soak in the scenery. For those wishing to enhance their viewing experience, coin-operated telescopes are available.

When planning a visit, it's wise to consider the local conditions. The elevation means it can often be quite cold and windy, even on what appears to be a warm day elsewhere in the city. Layered clothing is highly recommended to ensure comfort. To avoid crowds and secure easier parking, arriving earlier in the day is often suggested. While driving via Portola Road is a common approach, the point is also reachable by public transport, with the 37 Corbett bus line stopping conveniently nearby. Beyond the immediate viewpoint, the surrounding Twin Peaks Natural Area offers opportunities for hiking and exploring its unique coastal scrub and grassland communities. Evening visits reveal a different, equally mesmerizing spectacle, as the city lights twinkle below, creating a magical ambiance. However, visitors should exercise caution at night, as there have been reported incidents of robberies in the area. For hikers, it's also advisable to stay on marked trails to avoid poison oak.