Muir Woods National Monument: 1st Time Visitor Guide
Just a short drive from San Francisco, Muir Woods National Monument is a peaceful sanctuary where towering coastal redwoods, some over 1,000 years old, stretch skyward in quiet majesty. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil walk beneath a lush canopy or a more adventurous hike into surrounding ridgelines, Muir Woods offers a timeless experience of California’s natural beauty.
Overview
Established in 1908, Muir Woods is part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area and was named in honor of renowned naturalist John Muir. The park protects one of the last remaining old-growth coastal redwood forests in the Bay Area. Its peaceful trails, wooden boardwalks, and awe-inspiring trees offer a glimpse into a primeval world untouched by urban noise.
- Location: Marin County, California
- Size: 554 acres (with 240 acres of old-growth redwoods)
- Known for: Towering redwoods, easy access from San Francisco, serene forest walks
Photos:
How to Get There
From San Francisco:
- By Car: About a 30 to 45-minute drive across the Golden Gate Bridge via US-101 North to Highway 1. Note: parking must be reserved in advance through the official website.
- By Shuttle (Seasonal): The Muir Woods Shuttle runs on weekends and holidays from Mill Valley or Sausalito, with reservations required.
- By Tour: Several local tour companies offer half-day or full-day trips.
There is no public transit that goes directly into Muir Woods, so plan accordingly.
Best Times to Visit
- Spring (March–May): Lush greenery and mild weather, with fewer crowds.
- Summer (June–August): Peak visitor season; mornings are cooler with frequent fog.
- Fall (September–November): Crisp air, fewer crowds, and golden light filtering through the trees.
- Winter (December–February): Quiet, misty, and mystical, perfect for solitude and photography.
Try to arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid peak visitor times.
Plan a trip
10 Best Things to Do
- Walk the Main Trail Loop – Flat and easy, with interpretive signs and massive redwoods.
- Explore Cathedral Grove – A hushed, sacred-feeling spot with some of the oldest trees in the park.
- Join a Ranger Talk – Learn about redwood ecology and park history.
- Hike to the Canopy View Trail – For elevated views through the treetops.
- Take the Bootjack Trail – A moderate loop with waterfalls and creek crossings.
- Visit the Muir Woods Visitor Center – Small but informative, with books and exhibits.
- Relax on a Bench by Redwood Creek – Listen to the stream and forest sounds.
- Photograph the Fog-Draped Trees – Morning mist adds a cinematic mood.
- Explore the Fern-lined Hillside Trail – Less trafficked and more immersive.
- Connect to Mount Tamalpais Trails – Extend your adventure into higher elevations.
- Bonus: Top recommendations from visitors
Best Hikes (Beginner to Advanced)
Beginner
- Main Trail Loop (0.5 to 2 miles): Flat, wheelchair-accessible, follows Redwood Creek.
- Bridge 2 to Bridge 4 Loop (~1 mile): Short and scenic with large redwood views.
Intermediate
- Canopy View to Lost Trail to Fern Creek Loop (~3 miles): Moderate loop with elevation gain and great forest views.
- Bootjack Trail Loop (~4.5 miles): Steeper trail with varied forest terrain and creek crossings.
Advanced
- Dipsea to Ben Johnson Trail Loop (~6 miles): A scenic challenge with ocean views and solitude.
- Muir Woods to Mount Tamalpais Summit (~10+ miles): Full-day trek with panoramic Bay Area views.
Hidden Gems
- Bridge 4 Extension Trail – A quiet path that continues along Fern Creek beyond the main loop.
- Hillside Trail – Often overlooked, this elevated route offers great forest views with fewer people.
- Early Morning Solitude – Arriving right at opening time lets you enjoy the forest in near silence.
- Redwood Creek Overlook – A peaceful bench spot to reflect near the stream.
- Trail Links to Mount Tamalpais – Ideal for those wanting a more remote hiking experience.
1–5 Day Sample Itinerary
Day 1
- Early arrival and walk the Main Trail Loop
- Visit Cathedral Grove and Hillside Trail
- Enjoy a picnic lunch by Redwood Creek
Day 2
- Hike the Canopy View to Lost Trail Loop
- Explore the Visitor Center
- Dinner in nearby Mill Valley
Day 3
- Hike the Dipsea Trail to Stinson Beach
- Relax at the beach or explore the coast
- Return via shuttle or rideshare
Day 4
- Drive or hike into Mount Tamalpais State Park
- Catch sunset at Muir Beach Overlook
Day 5
- Morning stroll through quieter trails
- Explore Sausalito or the Marin Headlands before heading home
Packing List
- My Amazon gear list
- Comfortable hiking shoes
- Warm layers (mornings are often foggy)
- Reusable water bottle
- Trail snacks or lunch
- Lightweight rain jacket (especially in spring or winter)
- Sunscreen and hat (for extended hikes)
- Phone or camera for photos
- Small daypack
- Reservation confirmation for parking or shuttle
- Binoculars for birdwatching
Where to Stay
Similar Sights
Things to Know Before You Go
- Reservations Required: All visitors must reserve parking or shuttle access in advance at the official website.
- No Cell Service: Download maps or directions beforehand.
- Leave No Trace: Stay on trails, take all trash with you, and avoid disturbing wildlife.
- No Pets Allowed: Only service animals are permitted.
- Limited Food Options: Bring snacks, as the on-site cafe may have limited hours.
- Frequent Fog: Dress in layers and expect cool, damp mornings.
Final Thoughts
A visit to Muir Woods National Monument is a humbling experience, where the presence of towering redwoods and the hush of the forest create a powerful sense of awe. For first-time visitors, it’s an easy-to-access natural escape from city life and a reminder of California’s incredible ecological heritage. Whether you visit for an hour or stay for several days, Muir Woods leaves a lasting impression that draws travelers back again and again.
