Experience the Magic of Muir Woods: A Tour of California's Majestic Redwood Trees

Muir Woods entrance

Catch the YouTube video version of this blog at the bottom of the page.

Introduction

Nestled just north of San Francisco, Muir Woods National Monument offers an escape into California’s magical redwood forest. This guide covers everything a first-time visitor needs to know, from park hours and trail options to transportation tips and seasonal highlights. Let’s plan an unforgettable adventure to Muir Woods!

A Brief History of Muir Woods

Muir Woods was established in 1908 when President Theodore Roosevelt designated the land as a national monument, thanks to a generous donation by William and Elizabeth Kent, who sought to protect the redwoods from logging. Named after conservationist John Muir, the park preserves one of the last remaining old-growth redwood forests, home to trees that are hundreds of years old.

Getting to Muir Woods from San Francisco

Located about 16 miles from San Francisco, Muir Woods is easily accessible by car. The drive takes roughly 45 minutes. Take Highway 101 north across the Golden Gate Bridge, exit at Highway 1, and follow the signs. For those using public transportation, combine the Golden Gate Transit bus to Sausalito with a shuttle service that connects directly to Muir Woods.

Parking and Reservations

Due to limited space and conservation efforts, Muir Woods requires a parking reservation. You can book in advance via the GoMuirWoods website, with fees ranging from $8–$10. If parking at the monument isn’t available, consider using the Muir Woods Shuttle, which operates year-round on weekends and holidays, as well as daily in summer, from the Pohono Park & Ride lot near Sausalito.

Park Hours, Entrance Fee, and Pets Policy

• Hours: Open every day, typically from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. in summer and 8 a.m. to sunset in winter. Confirm current hours on the National Park Service website.

  
  

• Entrance Fee: $15 for adults, while children under 16 can enter for free.

  
  

• Pets: Not allowed in the park to protect the ecosystem. Make sure to plan ahead if traveling with a pet.

  
  

Unique Redwood Trees of Muir Woods

Muir Woods is home to coast redwoods, or Sequoia sempervirens, some of the oldest and tallest trees on Earth. These resilient giants can live over 1,000 years and reach heights of over 250 feet. The forest’s cool, foggy climate keeps the redwoods hydrated and contributes to their survival. Fun fact: the tannins in redwood bark help protect them from pests and disease!

No Cell Service & Essential Gear

Be aware that cell phone service is unavailable within Muir Woods. Download any maps or directions beforehand, and bring essentials such as sturdy shoes, water, and layers since temperatures can be cooler under the redwoods.

Trail Guide: Top Hiking Options

Muir Woods offers a variety of trails, each showcasing the beauty of the redwoods. Here’s a look at some popular options:

1. Main Trail (Easy)

   • Distance: 2 miles (round trip)

   • Time: 1-1.5 hours

   • Difficulty: Easy

   • Highlights: This popular boardwalk trail is perfect for beginners or families, winding through the tallest redwoods with plenty of scenic viewpoints.

     
     

2. Bridge 4 Loop (Moderate)

   • Distance: 2 miles (round trip)

   • Time: 1.5-2 hours

   • Difficulty: Moderate

   • Highlights: This trail takes you deeper into the forest, offering a peaceful retreat and stunning photo opportunities.

     
     

3. Ben Johnson Trail to Dipsea Trail Loop (Challenging)

   • Distance: 4.5 miles (round trip)

   • Time: 3-4 hours

   • Difficulty: Challenging

   • Highlights: With steep climbs, this loop provides impressive views of the forest and surrounding hills. The Dipsea Trail connects all the way to Stinson Beach if you’re looking for a longer hike.

     
     

4. Canopy View Trail (Moderate to Difficult)

   • Distance: 3 miles (round trip)

   • Time: 2.5-3 hours

   • Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult

   • Highlights: For a unique perspective, this trail leads to views above the redwood canopy, giving you a rare aerial view of the forest.

     
     
     
     

     
   
   
   
   

Best Time to Visit Muir Woods

Each season offers a unique experience at Muir Woods. Here’s what to expect:

• Spring (April-June): Lush scenery and blooming wildflowers make this an ideal time for vibrant nature photography.

  
  

• Summer: The warmest weather brings larger crowds, but it’s also when you’ll have the most daylight to explore.

  
  

• Fall (September-November): Cooler temperatures and fewer visitors make this a great time to visit. Some foliage changes add to the beauty of the forest.

  
  

• Winter: Quieter trails and peaceful views are perfect for a serene experience. Rainy days enhance the forest’s lush, green appearance, though some trails may be slick.

  
  
  
  

  

Final Tips for a Great Visit

Before you go, remember these quick tips:

1. Reserve Parking in advance or use the shuttle.

   
   

2. Check Park Hours and any updates on the official website.

   
   

3. Bring Essentials like comfortable shoes, water, layers, and download maps beforehand.

   
   
   
   

Conclusion

We hope this guide helps you plan an incredible visit to Muir Woods National Monument. Whether you’re strolling through the Main Trail or challenging yourself on the Dipsea Loop, Muir Woods promises unforgettable sights and a peaceful retreat into nature. Have you visited Muir Woods? Let us know your favorite trail in the comments!

Here are a few of the travel accessories I personally use:

1. Hoka Gaviota 5 shoes 

2. Hoka Gymnastics Shoes Hiking 

3. Super Feet Green insoles 

4. Selfie stick, like the Bluehorn with 360° rotation 

5. Hydro flask 

6. Scoop Girl Oil sunscreen 

7. Etekcity Luggage Scale 

8. Backpack 

9. Foldable backpack

10. Front-facing backup 

11. FlipBelt

12. Lock

13. CACOE Phone Lanyard 

14. MEE audio Connect

15. Noise Cancelling headphones 

16. Apple AirTag 

17. Multiplug adaptor 

18. Portable Charger 

19. Drybar The Brush Crush Heated Straightening Brush 

20. CHI 44 Iron Guard Thermal Protection 

Book your flight or hotel :

1. Expedia

   
   

2. WayAway

   
   
   
   

Book tours and buy tickets to the museums, monuments, parks, etc.

1. WeGoTrip

   
   

2. Tiqets

   
   
   
   

Buy travel gear : 

Amazon

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links to products, meaning I may earn a small commission if you purchase something through my links, at no extra cost to you.