Muir Woods Tours

The San Francisco Bay Area is a treasure trove of events and activities. From a basic sightseeing tour that gives you the opportunity to see famous landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge, Coit Tower, Pier 39 and The Palace of Fine Arts to a trip to Napa Valley Wine Country for an afternoon of wine tasting, there are many different options for enjoying your time in San Francisco. There’s a reason why the Bay Area one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States.

With so many things to do while you are in the city, it can be hard to see it all in one trip, but there are a few things that should be at the top of your list. Located in Mill Valley, California, just a short drive north from San Francisco, lies one of the most amazing natural attractions in the nation, Muir Woods.

What is Muir Woods?
Muir Woods is a forest in Northern California, but not just any old forest. Proclaimed a National Monument in 1908, by President Theodore Roosevelt, Muir Woods is an area filled with old growth coast redwoods, which are the tallest living things on the planet. These ancient trees can grow to over 380 feet and can live for more than 1,000 years.

Visiting Muir Woods
With just under a million visitors every year, Muir Woods is one of the most popular attractions in the San Francisco Bay Area. The entire National Monument covers 558 acres, however a section of the area has has been set up for tours to not only help preserve Muir Woods, but also to make things more accessible for anyone that would like to visit. You will find a series of trails that form loops, so you can choose the best options depending on how much time you want to spend at the park and how much walking you would like to do. There are three main loops you can choose from, a 1/2 mile loop, 1 mile loop and a 2 mile loop. The nice thing about the 2 shorter loops is that the trails are completely paved, so they are wheelchair accessible and an easy walk for anyone who may not normally be able to hike dirt trails. The longest loop does include some dirt paths and more difficult areas, so avoid this unless you can handle it.

If you are an avid hiker or looking for a more challenging path, there are some other trail options that are different from the main touristy trails. The Canopy View Trail and others offer a more adventurous experience, with some taking you up high enough to see the coast in the distance.

Getting to Muir Woods
Once you arrive at Muir Woods, everything is fairly self-explanatory. You can check in at the Visitor’s Center, grab a map and be on your way. As of 2020, due to the huge interest in this attraction, you are now required to make reservations. In addition, if you are driving to the park, you will need to get advanced paid parking. However, if you want the best experience, we highly recommend taking one of the San Francisco Tours that offer Muir Woods visits. Some of the tours are specifically set up to take you to Muir Woods, but others are more inclusive, so you can see a few great San Francisco attractions all in one tour.

There are many reasons why Muir Woods should be on your list of things to do when visiting San Francisco. It’s one of the few places where you can experience old growth redwoods without having to travel too far from the city, plus it’s an excellent spot for bird watching, with over 60 species of birds living in the area. There are plenty of trails for hiking, biking, or horseback riding through this majestic landscape. and it’s an ideal place for families looking for a fun day out with kids – there are plenty of activities like picnicking and exploring nature together!

Muir Woods National Monument is a beautiful redwood forest located in California’s Marin County. It is a popular tourist destination that attracts people from all over the world. Here are the top reasons why you should visit Muir Woods:

• Stunning Redwood Trees: Muir Woods is home to some of the tallest and oldest redwood trees in the world. The towering trees, which can reach up to 250 feet tall and can live for over 2,000 years, are truly awe-inspiring. Walking among these giants is a humbling experience that will stay with you forever.
• Scenic Trails: Muir Woods offers a variety of scenic trails that take you through the heart of the forest. Whether you prefer a leisurely walk or a challenging hike, there is a trail for everyone. The trails are well-maintained and provide breathtaking views of the forest and the surrounding areas.
• Wildlife: Muir Woods is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including deer, squirrels, chipmunks, and several species of birds. With a little luck and patience, you may be able to spot some of these animals while you are there.
• Rich History: Muir Woods has a rich history dating back to the late 1800s, when it was first protected as a park. Today, it is a National Monument that celebrates the life and work of John Muir, the father of the national parks movement. While walking through this old-growth forest you’ll get a unique opportunity to learn about both local history as well as Native American culture that has been around for centuries before us! Take a guided tour or even just stop by one of their interactive exhibits so that you can fully appreciate everything that this magical place has to offer!
• Peaceful and Relaxing: Muir Woods is a peaceful and relaxing place that provides a much-needed escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The sounds of the forest, the rustling of the leaves, and the tranquil atmosphere make it the perfect place to unwind and recharge.
• Educational Opportunities: Muir Woods offers a variety of educational opportunities, including ranger-led walks, guided tours, and hands-on activities for kids. Whether you are a student or a lifelong learner, you will come away from your visit with a deeper appreciation for the beauty and significance of the redwoods.
• Unparalleled Natural Splendor – One of the main attractions at Muir Woods National Monument is how incredibly diverse its natural beauty is! With towering trees, ferns growing out from between rocks along riversides and wild mushrooms sprouting up all around – you won’t be able to resist taking photos!