Just a short drive from San Francisco, you’ll find a truly incredible natural wonder – Muir Woods National Monument. This park is home to some of the oldest and tallest redwood trees in the world. If you’re looking for an amazing outdoor experience, visiting Muir Woods is a must. Let’s take a look at what makes this park so special, along with my picks for best hikes at Muir Woods!
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History of the Park
Muir Woods National Monument was officially established in 1908 by President Theodore Roosevelt and named for naturalist John Muir, who had campaigned hard for the park designation of the area. This California park features a lush old-growth forest of coastal redwoods that have been protected from deforestation since its creation. Towering up to levels well over 250 feet tall, these sequoias are some of the largest on Earth – a fact that John Muir himself admired while visiting the park more than 100 years ago. Today, park officials continue to work hard to maintain this beautiful spot of nature and ensure it will be around for future generations.
The Trees
Muir Woods is home to some of the oldest and tallest redwood trees in the world. There are over five hundred acres of old-growth redwood forest, with trees ranging from 200 to 250 feet tall. The trees themselves are quite breathtaking – they are so tall that it can be hard to comprehend their size until you stand in front of one! There’s also an abundance of other plants, animals, and fungi living in these ancient forests. In addition to the towering redwoods, there are many different species of ferns, mushrooms, lichens, and birds living within these woodlands.
What to Do
Muir Woods has much more to offer than just its magnificent trees. There are numerous trails within the park that are perfect for hiking or biking through the forest. Whether you’re looking for an easy stroll or a challenging hike, there is something here for everyone! Be sure to bring your camera too; there are plenty of stunning photographic opportunities throughout the park. For those who want to explore further into nature, there are guided tours available where visitors can learn about local flora and fauna as well as get up close and personal with some of the most impressive redwood trees around!
Hiking
Redwood Creek Trail
The Redwood Creek Trail at Muir Woods National Monument offers an incredible hiking experience for all levels of hikers. Measuring up to 5.5 miles roundtrip, the trail takes you through a unique combination of terrain and conditions—from shady redwood groves to exposed hillsides offering sweeping views at the trail’s highest elevation point. The trailhead for the trail is located adjacent to the parking lot at Muir Woods, with signage indicating the trail’s direction and length. Whether you’re an experienced hiker looking for a leisurely stroll or someone who wants a more strenuous outdoor experience, the Redwood Creek Trail is a great option to explore Muir Woods National Monuments’ natural beauty.
Cardiac Hill Trail (via Dipsea Trail)
If you’re looking for a heart-pumping trail experience, then the Cardiac Hill trail via the Dipsea trail at Muir Woods National Monument is an ideal choice. This trail follows the beautiful redwood groves of Muir Woods and offers breathtaking views from its high elevations. The trailhead—located near sixth bridge—is just over seven miles long and takes about 3-4 hours to complete. You’ll have to be prepared for everything though, as conditions range across terrain types including pavement, stairs, rugged trails, and hills with a lot of elevation gain. That’s why it gets its name! But in spite of that, the trail is well worth it because of the stunning natural surroundings and unique wildlife you’ll find. The stunning views throughout this trail make it one of the best hikes at Muir Woods. So take up this trail if you’re looking for a challenging hike with plenty of rewards!
Bootjack Trail Loop
Hiking the Bootjack Trail Loop at Muir Woods National Monument is an adventure worth taking! This trail is a moderate 6 mile trail perfect for anyone looking to stretch their legs and work up a sweat. The trail winds through old growth redwoods, allowing hikers to observe the natural beauty of the region with ease. For those who seek more challenge, there is an elevation gain of 500 feet that adds technicality and thrill to the experience. Along the trail, visitors will be treated to breathtaking views from vantage points not often seen within Muir Woods National Monument. Don’t forget to take in all these sights when you reach trailhead near the Muir Woods Visitor Center!
Fern Creek, Lost Trail, Canopy Loop Trail
Hiking the Muir Woods Fern Creek Loop trail at Muir Woods National Monument should definitely be on your list of must-do activities in California. With a trail length of just over 5 miles, this loop trail takes around two to three hours to complete depending on trail conditions and terrain that includes a moderate elevation change. The trailhead is located close to the entrance station for Muir Woods and offers travellers views of redwood forests, towering treetops, tranquil streams as well as nearby hills ideal for picnicking or just soaking in the surrounding nature. If you’re looking for an enlivening hike through beauty, redwoods and river valleys, then this trail could be exactly the adventure you’ve been searching for.
Fern Creek and Hillside Loop Trail
A must-see trail for any eco-tourist, the Fern Creek and Hillside Loop trail at Muir Woods National Monument offers a peaceful experience in nature. At around 2.6 miles in total length, this trail follows a leisurely path along Fern Creek before ascending steadily uphill to offer breathtaking views of Redwood Creek and the surrounding environment.
Different trail sections provide different levels of difficulty. For example, the trail’s initial descent along Fern Creek is mostly flat, while the climb up to Hillside trail is much steeper and will likely necessitate some rest stops—especially if you’re not accustomed to exercising at higher elevations! The trailhead begins at a daily parking lot located on Panoramic Highway—make sure that you tell your navigator where you want to go and they should be able to get you there in no time. The variety of views and environments make this one of the best hikes at Muir Woods. All in all, this trail is great for nature enthusiasts who appreciate beautiful views and are willing to work up a sweat!
What to Wear
My clothing recommendations for hiking in Muir Woods varies depending on when in the season you’re going. If you opt for shorts, I like the Prana double peak shorts, but you might want to start with a pair of warm leggings under them if it’s cold. For hiking pants, my go to are the double peak joggers.
On top, for summer hiking I start with a tri-blend t shirt or tank, and then layer on an SPF pullover if it’s warmer outside, or a smartwool pullover if it’s cold or windy. And I usually carried my rain jacket. Finally, my go to hiking shoes are merrell siren sports. They’re comfortable, waterproof, and have Vibram soles which are super grippy, which you’ll appreciate for hiking on all the limestone and granite out there!
Muir Woods National Monument is an incredible place that should not be missed by anyone visiting San Francisco or nearby areas. Whether you’re looking for an easy stroll through nature or a challenging hike through ancient forests, this park has something for everyone! With its majestic redwood trees and abundant wildlife, Muir Woods provides visitors with an unparalleled outdoor experience that will leave them feeling connected (and maybe even humbled) by nature’s beauty. If you’re looking for an amazing outdoor adventure near San Francisco – look no further than Muir Woods!
That’s my list! I hope this helped you plan and get excited for the best hikes at Muir Woods! What are your favorite hikes in this beautiful park?
As always, please practice Leave No Trace principles when enjoying the outdoors! Check local trail and weather conditions before any hike.
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