Muir Woods

Part of the Golden Gate Recreational Area, this breathtaking redwood forest is named in honour of the famous naturalist John Muir.

TravelCurious Tip

Muir Woods gets very busy on weekends, so try to come midweek and, better yet, early in the morning.

Muir Woods can be found just 12 km to the north of San Francisco, but the ancient nature of the woods could hardly be further from the digital hub of that city. Muir Woods contains 554 acres of protected forestland, of which 240 acres are old growth coast redwood forests, one of the only remaining such spots in the San Francisco Bay Area.


Before the logging industry arrived in California, there were an estimated 2 million acres of old growth forest. By the early 20th century, almost all that was reasonably accessible had been cut down. The US Congressman William Kent saw the tragedy they were hurtling towards and bought up some land to protect it, much to the chagrin of industrial companies. He then donated it to the federal government and, in 1908, Theodore Roosevelt declared it a National Monument.


And thus some of America’s most remarkable trees were saved. Many of them range in age from 400 to 1000 years and some are a staggering 250 feet tall. The solitude and the scale of the place is absolutely awe-inspiring, and very humbling. The remarkable ecosystem here is supported by the regular coastal marine layer fogs that drift over from the Pacific Ocean. This creates a wet environment that, coupled with the California sun, drives extraordinary plant growth.

Nearby Attractions

See all attractions in San Francisco
Fort Point
Completed just before the American Civil War, this fort defended the Bay against hostile warships.
Golden Gate Bridge
This superlative piece of civil engineering is the most recognisable symbol of San Francisco, and an icon of the United States.
California Giant Redwoods
Giant redwoods - Sequoia sempervirens - are the surviving species of the Sequoia genus, which can reach astonishing heights of up to 375 feet.
Sausalito
In Marin County, the quaint town of Sausalito is lined with sidewalk cafes and paths along the water, across the bay from San Francisco.
Tesla Model X
Enjoy the lap of luxury with the buzz of 21st century technology, as you enjoy a day in Tesla's Model X.
Muir Woods Trails
Discover the park and get amazed with nature as you walk by the wood paths and trails to make your way.

Related Tours

Muir Woods & Sausalito: Private Day Trip from San Francisco
Nothing prepares you for the tranquil hush and serenity of these magnificent old-growth woodlands, stretching deep and dark along the Pacific Coast with mesmerizing views of Muir Woods. 

On your private day trip to Muir Woods and Sausalito, you will:

  • Enjoy hotel pick-up by your private driver and cross the spectacular Golden Gate Bridge;
  • Soak up spectacular views across the Bridge, the Bay, and the city skyline;
  • Explore the raw serenity of the 300ft old-growth soaring redwoods at Muir Woods on a self-guided tour;
  • Discover the National Monument’s deep green glades and leafy winding trails;
  • Enjoy free time at the pretty seaside town of Sausalito, north of the Golden Gate Bridge;
  • Browse the houseboat enclaves built by artistic squatters after WWII;
  • Enjoy hotel drop-off at your hotel or somewhere in the city centre of your choosing. 

Resplendent 300ft redwood trees soar skyward in atmospheric Muir Woods where shady, peaceful glades evoke the prehistoric origins of this magnificent species. 

Dedicated to the father of America’s national parks in 1908, beautiful Muir Woods rises up from a fern-clad valley rich in wildlife, part of a National Monument within California’s Golden Gate National Recreation Area, to the north of San Francisco. 

On this Private Excursion to Muir Woods and Sausalito, learn about the foundation of one of our first and most loved US National Monuments, and walk a thriving old-growth Coastal Redwood forest. Follow leafy winding trails that inspired John Muir’s strong voice for the preservation of America's most special places.  

Along the way, cross the Golden Gate Bridge and enjoy vistas of the San Francisco skyline, Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay. After returning via a scenic mountain road, enjoy a visit to the charming and upscale waterfront hamlet Sausalito for lunch, with reservations made in advance for you.  

Please note: This is a day trip including a private driver who is not allowed to enter the Park with you due to local regulations. You will be exploring Muir Woods Park and Sausalito with your group on a self-guided tour
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