Canopy, Panoramic, Redwood Trail, Sun, Dipsea Trail Loop

Mill Valley, California

4.7/5

based on 23 reviews

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Distance

4.31 miles

Elevation Gain

1145 ft

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by Katch Silva

Experience the humbling beauty of these magnificent redwoods. Muir Woods is a perfect trip for families and out-of-town guests with multiple loops and hiking options for groups of all fitness levels.

While there are other, less crowded redwood groves in the Bay Area, Muir Woods National Monument is easily one of the best. It is a beautifully maintained site, with wooden footpaths meandering between towering redwoods that are between 600 – 800 years old. It’s home to some true giants, with its tallest trees reaching over 250 ft in height.

Muir Woods contains 6 miles of trails (see trail map), and there are multiple options for those looking for a good hike. There are several loops along the canyon walls that you can choose from, as well as hikes that extend into surrounding Mount Tamalpais State Park. A popular choice is the 4.5 mile Muir Woods Tourist Club Loop, which starts at the entrance to the national monument: Canopy Trail > Panoramic Trail > Redwood Trail > Sun Trail > Dipsea Trail > parking area. Pick up a trail map at the entrance and explore.

Regardless of what you choose to do, this place will leave you with that humbling, awe-inspiring feeling that you typically only find in nature’s most remote corners.

Check the Muir Woods website for latest fees and tips for planning your visit. Parking now requires a permit, which you can reserve at gomuirwoods.com. The Visitor Center features nice restrooms, a café, and a gift shop.

Inside Tip: This is an extremely popular destination (we’re talking tour buses), so plan on getting there right when the park opens (8:00am), and before the Visitor Center opens (9:00am). Bring cash and simply place the park fees in the self-service entrance…and enjoy a much less crowded experience.

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Reviews

Andy

Canopy, Panoramic, Redwood Trail, Sun, Dipsea Trail Loop

11/23/20

Really big trees. The best but very crowded park to view redwoods. Would not recommend during the pandemic

5.0

Jennifer Carr

Canopy, Panoramic, Redwood Trail, Sun, Dipsea Trail Loop

11/23/20

Muir Woods is beautiful park, but it is incredibly crowded. The redwood trees are impressive and if you can hike a longer trail, you might be able to get away from the crowds.

3.0

Laura Hill

Canopy, Panoramic, Redwood Trail, Sun, Dipsea Trail Loop

07/08/20

These trees are breathtaking - this is a photographers dream. I was able to visit with my mom, but would love to spend more than just a few hours there. Hoping to come back with my hubby! Reservations required, make sure to check ahead on any new regulations.

5.0

Natalie F

Canopy, Panoramic, Redwood Trail, Sun, Dipsea Trail Loop

07/04/20

I went before shuttle and reservations were required. We got there quite early and didn't have too much of a hassle with parking. Muir is a WI guy, so he has a soft spot in my heart! Beautiful park! The way the light shines through these tall, lumbering trees is something else!

4.0

Mike Painter

Canopy, Panoramic, Redwood Trail, Sun, Dipsea Trail Loop

02/21/18

Beginning early in 2018, all visitors must make advance reservations to park at Muir Woods or to take the weekend & holiday shuttle. Go to https://gomuirwoods.com for details.

5.0

Skyler Hardy

Canopy, Panoramic, Redwood Trail, Sun, Dipsea Trail Loop

01/10/17

I have hiked around Muir Woods National Monument several times. It is a place I would suggest a visit to, and a place I will go to again!

5.0

Explorer

Shalee Blackmer

Explorer

Canopy, Panoramic, Redwood Trail, Sun, Dipsea Trail Loop

01/05/17

Muir Woods is absolutely beautiful. The park isn't that big and can easily be explored in a few hours. If you are visiting during high tourist season be prepared for a lot of crowds and full parking.

4.0

17ce7d5c57d087d780bd3e73fef67f37

Canopy, Panoramic, Redwood Trail, Sun, Dipsea Trail Loop

11/10/16

John Muir said it right and the most beautiful small universe can be found in the redwoods at Muir Woods National Monument. The towering trees will leave you in dumbfounded awe (trees are so cool, please learn about the red woods). Spend time, and I mean real time, here and encounter the beauty.

5.0

Gene Reyes

Canopy, Panoramic, Redwood Trail, Sun, Dipsea Trail Loop

08/22/16

Such a calming treasure along the Pacific Coast. The short drive from the city is one of the things that makes this place the perfect weekend getaway.

5.0

Janelle

Canopy, Panoramic, Redwood Trail, Sun, Dipsea Trail Loop

08/02/16

An amazing experience

5.0

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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Canopy, Panoramic, Redwood Trail, Sun, Dipsea Trail Loop

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Steep Ravine Trail via Pantoll Station

Camp at Mt. Tam's Pantoll Campground

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