Explore Muir Woods National Monument
Details
Distance
4.5 miles
Route Type
Loop
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 it’s 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. 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.
Park fees are $7/adult and children 15 and younger are free (note fees are subject to change). Parking can be difficult if you arrive much later than 9:00am. 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
Leave a ReviewStunning
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
"The clearest way into the Universe is through a forest wilderness"
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
A Time to Unwind
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
Leave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on.