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Muir Woods National Monument: A Redwood Cathedral

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Discover the awe-inspiring beauty and tranquility of ancient redwoods at Muir Woods National Monument, a natural treasure near San Francisco.

Muir Woods National Monument, a sanctuary of ancient coast redwoods, is located just north of San Francisco in Marin County, California. Established in 1908, it protects one of the last remaining old-growth redwood forests in the Bay Area, offering visitors a chance to marvel at trees that can live for 400 to 800 years and soar up to 250 feet.

A brief summary to Muir Woods National Monument

  • Monday 8 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-6 pm
  • Friday 8 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-6 pm
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Muir Woods National Monument.

  • Reservations for parking or the shuttle are required in advance at GoMuirWoods.com.
  • There is no cell phone service in Muir Woods, so download your parking reservation or shuttle ticket in advance.
  • Wear layers, as the temperature inside the woods can be significantly cooler than in the surrounding areas.
  • Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience the tranquility of the forest.
  • Stay on marked trails to protect the delicate redwood ecosystem.

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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Highway 101, take the Mill Valley/Highway 1/Stinson Beach exit. Follow the signs to Highway 1 and then to Muir Woods. Note that reservations are required for all vehicles, and parking is limited. Standard parking is $9.50, medium is $30, and large is $45. It is highly recommended to reserve parking in advance at GoMuirWoods.com, as there is no cell service at the monument.

  • Public Transport

    The Muir Woods Shuttle provides seasonal service from various locations in Marin County. Check the schedule at GoMuirWoods.com for current routes and times, as the shuttle operates on weekends and holidays, with select summer weekdays. Round-trip fare is $3.75 for adults; children 15 and under ride free. Shuttle reservations are required. Alternatively, Marin Transit Route 61 stops near the Mountain Home Inn, about 1.5 miles from Muir Woods, requiring a hike with significant elevation change.

  • Ride-Share/Taxi

    You can take a ride-share or taxi to Muir Woods without a reservation, but note that there is no cell service at Muir Woods to call for a return ride. Muir Woods has a pay phone behind the Visitor Center with a list of cab companies. A taxi from San Francisco will cost approximately $60-$80. Negotiating a flat rate with the driver may be cheaper.

Discover more about Muir Woods National Monument

Muir Woods National Monument is a realm of towering redwoods, a living testament to the power and beauty of nature. Located just 12 miles north of the Golden Gate Bridge, this 558-acre monument preserves an ancient coast redwood forest, offering a serene escape from the bustling city.Established in 1908 by President Theodore Roosevelt and named after the renowned naturalist John Muir, the monument stands as a symbol of conservation. The forest's history is intertwined with the efforts of William Kent, who purchased the land to protect it from logging and then donated a portion to the federal government.Walking through Muir Woods is an immersive experience. Sunlight filters through the canopy, casting dappled shadows on the forest floor, which is covered in redwood sorrel, ferns, and other lush vegetation. The air is cool and moist, with a distinctive scent of redwood. Trails wind through the groves, offering visitors the chance to explore at their own pace. Some of the trails are boardwalks and paved, making the park accessible to wheelchairs.The monument is home to diverse plant and animal life. Redwood Creek flows through the park, providing habitat for coho salmon and steelhead trout. Visitors may also spot various bird species, deer, chipmunks, and other wildlife.Muir Woods offers a variety of activities, including hiking, guided walks, and ranger programs. The Visitor Center provides information about the park's history, ecology, and conservation efforts.

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