Muir Woods National Monument

Muir Woods National Monument invites you to step into a realm where ancient coast redwoods, the tallest trees on Earth, reach for the sky and thrive alongside the tranquil waters of Redwood Creek.

Since its designation as a National Monument in 1908, Muir Woods has been a treasured refuge and a natural laboratory. Here, the intricate relationship between humanity and the living landscape unfolds before your eyes. As you explore the trails, you’ll uncover the secrets of this primeval forest, gaining a deeper understanding of our connection with the natural world.

Coastal redwoods have been a wellspring of inspiration for humanity throughout the ages. Revered across the globe, these majestic trees extend from the expansive alluvial plains of Humboldt County to the misty enclaves of the Big Sur Coast. The enigmatic allure of these time-honored forests is bound to captivate your imagination.

Plan Your Visit to Muir Woods

The park is open 365 days a year. Before embarking on your Muir Woods adventure, it’s important to note a few essentials:

Muir Woods Parking & Reservations Required

To ensure your visit goes smoothly, reservations are always required and can be purchased ahead of time with your entrance tickets at GoMuirWoods.com. Muir Woods is a very popular destination, especially on weekends and holidays, so securing your reservation in advance is crucial.

Disconnect to Reconnect

Muir Woods is a place of serenity, and you’ll truly be immersed in nature here. Be prepared as there is no cell phone service or WiFi in the immediate area. To avoid any connectivity concerns, download your parking reservation in advance.

Trail Diversity

Muir Woods offers a variety of hiking experiences for visitors of all levels. Choose from a ½-hour loop, a 1-hour loop, a 1½-hour loop, or explore longer hikes that extend into the enchanting surroundings of Mount Tamalpais State Park. The trails within Muir Woods are thoughtfully designed, with some being asphalted or boardwalked for ease of access, while others, perched on canyon walls, present a more rugged challenge.

Muir Woods Pets Policy

Please be aware that pets are not permitted within Muir Woods, ensuring the tranquility and preservation of this natural sanctuary.

Stay Informed

Muir Woods is open year-round, with the exception of closures due to inclement weather or hazardous conditions. For updates on closures and other important information, stay tuned to alerts on the official website and social media pages.

Get ready to embark on a journey through time and nature’s majesty at Muir Woods National Monument.

Muir Woods Main Trail

The Muir Woods Main Trail includes…

• Accessible boardwalks
• Stunning Coast redwoods (Sequoia sempervirens)
• Fern Creek
• Cathedral Grove
• Options for short or long loops, from easy walks to challenging hikes
• Excellent docent talks

Allow 1-2 hours for this hike—which is more of a walk, really. This route uses the Redwood Creek Trail and the Fern Creek Trail to form a delightful out-and-back Coastal redwood pilgrimage.

A full breakdown is provided in the trail notes below, with 11 mind-blowing photos.

Muir Woods Main Trail Notes & Gallery

This was one of the most moving nature experiences of my life. The Redwoods are truly humbling and beautiful. Their awesome height, their magnificent straightness; even their bark is incredible. The main trail is a delight to stroll, and Cathedral Grove must surely be one of the wonders of the natural world.

Get full access now and enjoy member-only benefits.

Similar Hikes

This is the Main Trail, which is suitable for almost everybody at any ability level. For regular hikers looking for a little more huff, I can’t recommend enough the Canopy Trail hinted at above. Trail guide on the way.

If you’re on the Berkeley/Oakland side of San Francisco, visit Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park — it’s a hidden gem of redwood forests. Trail guide coming soon!

Read More