Muir Woods National Monument: A Timeless Redwood Forest Near San Francisco
- eaglelimos
- Jul 28
- 4 min read
Just 30 minutes north of San Francisco lies one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in the Bay Area: Muir Woods National Monument. Preserved since 1908, this federally protected old-growth coastal redwood forest offers visitors a peaceful escape into nature, with cathedral-like groves, quiet trails, and towering trees that have stood for over 1,000 years.
Whether you're a first-time traveler or a local rediscovering its beauty, visiting Muir Woods is a must-do Northern California experience. Here's everything you need to know to plan your visit—plus how to get there easily and sustainably.
What Is Muir Woods National Monument?
Part of the National Park Service, Muir Woods protects one of the last remaining stands of old-growth coastal redwoods in the Bay Area. The forest sits within the Golden Gate National Recreation Area and is named after naturalist John Muir, a passionate advocate for America's wilderness.
Visitors come to Muir Woods for:
Majestic redwood trees reaching over 250 feet tall
Quiet, shaded walking trails with boardwalks and bridges
A chance to connect with ancient nature just minutes from the city
It’s a place for reflection, photography, light hiking, and unplugging from modern life.
Location & Hours
Muir Woods National Monument
Mill Valley, CA 94941
🕒 Open daily: 8:00 AM – Sunset
Distance from San Francisco: ~16 miles (about 35–45 minutes by car, depending on traffic)
What to Do at Muir Woods
1. Main Trail Loop
An easy, accessible path that winds through the heart of the forest. Suitable for all ages and abilities.
Distance: 0.5 to 2 miles
Time: 30–90 minutes
Highlights: Cathedral Grove, Founders Grove, Redwood Creek
2. Ben Johnson and Dipsea Trails
For those seeking a bit more adventure and elevation, connect to trails that climb above the canopy for coastal views.
3. Wildlife Viewing
Spot banana slugs, deer, river otters, and a variety of birds—no bears here, just serenity.
4. Interpretive Programs & Junior Ranger
Park rangers and volunteers offer seasonal guided walks, and kids can complete a Junior Ranger booklet to earn a badge.
Reservations & Entry Fees
Since 2018, advanced reservations are required for all vehicles and shuttle entries. No walk-ins allowed.
Entry Fee: $15 per adult (free for kids under 16)
Parking Fee: $9 per vehicle (requires online reservation)
Shuttle Option: Available weekends & holidays from Larkspur or Sausalito (also requires reservation)
Reserve online: GoMuirWoods.com
Transportation Tips: Why Limo or Black Car Service Makes Sense
Getting to Muir Woods can be tricky:
Winding mountain roads with sharp turns and limited signage
Very limited parking and strict timed-entry reservations
No public transit from San Francisco to the park entrance
That’s why many visitors opt for private black car or limo service—especially families, small groups, and travelers seeking comfort or efficiency.
Benefits of Hiring a Limo or Car Service:
Skip the parking stress: Your driver drops you off right at the entrance
No need to drive mountain roads: Let a professional handle it
Flexible timing: No rush to catch a shuttle
Add scenic stops: Combine with Sausalito, Muir Beach, or a Napa Valley wine tour
At Eagle Limos, we provide custom round-trip transportation to Muir Woods and surrounding Marin destinations. Our chauffeurs know the route, park timing, and best photo stops.
Nearby Attractions to Combine with Muir Woods
Muir Beach Overlook
Dramatic coastal cliffs and Pacific Ocean views. Only 15 minutes away.
Sausalito
Charming bayside town with waterfront dining, art galleries, and boutique shops. Great lunch spot post-hike.
Wine Country (Optional Day Extension)
Many guests enjoy starting the day in Muir Woods and ending with a late-afternoon wine tasting in Napa or Sonoma. A car service makes this possible without switching vehicles.
When to Visit Muir Woods
Spring and Fall: Mild weather, fewer crowds
Winter: Mossy, magical forest after rainfall
Summer: Most popular—book far in advance
Early morning or late afternoon visits are quieter and better for photos.
What to Bring
Comfortable walking shoes (trails are mostly flat but can be damp)
Jacket or layers (the forest is cool year-round)
Water and snacks (no food inside the forest but available at café near entrance)
Camera or smartphone for photos—no drones allowed
Accessibility
Main trail is wheelchair-accessible and stroller-friendly
ADA-compliant restrooms at entrance
Mobility devices welcome—ask rangers for updated access map
A visit to Muir Woods is like stepping into a silent cathedral of trees—a place where time slows, voices quiet, and the world feels ancient again. Whether you're seeking nature, history, or simply a deep breath of redwood-scented air, this national monument offers a profound experience just minutes from city life.
Add ease and comfort to your day by letting a professional handle the journey. A private black car service ensures that your visit is about the forest—not the freeway.
Book Your Ride to Muir Woods
Plan your private half-day or full-day escape to Muir Woods with Eagle Limos. We'll take care of the route, timing, and traffic—so you can focus on the trees.
Eagle Limos offers an extensive fleet of luxury sedans, stretch limos, SUVs, vans, and party buses—perfect for airport transfers, wine tours, weddings, and events across the Bay Area.
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