Muir Woods are only an hour’s drive downtown San Francisco it’s the perfect place to get close to nature and breathe in the clean woodland air.
Muir woods comprises 222 hectares of stunning woodland that is perfect for walking and trekking. As you wander through the woods, look upwards at the gargantuan redwood trees towering over you, some believed to be over 1200 years old. It’s a truly awe-inspiring sight.
There are 10 kilometres of trails here that are perfect for a stroll, or a more strenuous hike. Some are also suitable for wheelchair users. A map of the trails can be downloaded from the National Parks website or you can pick one up from the on-site visitors centre. All you need to do then is plan your route!
Once upon a time, redwoods were a common sight throughout Northern California, but the logging industry put an end to that. At one time, Muir Woods almost befell the same fate, as the site was considered an ideal location for a dam. Thankfully, William Kent, a Congressman at that time and his wife bought the land and donated it to the federal government in order to preserve it.
Theodore Roosevelt declared the area a national monument which has ensured that the woods have remained protected ever since. The woods derive their name from naturalist John Muir, who was responsible for establishing the national park system. Thanks to John Muir, California and its throngs of visitors alike are still able to enjoy this stunning wilderness retreat today.
The park is open every day. The best time to visit though is during the week, or early and late in the day at weekends. Muir Woods can only be reached easily by car.
