Muir Woods, San Francisco’s Redwood Forest
There are an incredible amount of things to do in San Francisco and visiting a redwood forest is often high on the list. The Muir Woods National Monument is a 45-minute drive from San Francisco California and is one of the few places left with groves of Coastal Redwoods. This short drive brings you to 240 acres of old-growth coastal Redwoods protected by the U.S. National Park Service. The trees average between 400-800 years old, are up to 250 feet tall, 22 feet wide, and have very small pine cones. Coastal Redwoods can live 2,200 years; Muir Woods trees average 700 years old. The land was purchased by William Kent in 1905 and donated to the Federal Government to protect the trees from the logging industry. It became a National Monument in 1908. Almost 1 million people visit each year. Many of the trails are boardwalks or paved making the forest stroller and wheelchair accessible.
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How to Visit Muir Woods, San Francisco’s Redwood Forest
Muir Woods is a perfect day trip from San Francisco. Parking for Muir Woods National Monument is limited and reservations are required. Be cautious of the drive, the road is narrow and winds with sharp drop-offs. Muir Woods also has a seasonal shuttle to the entrance. There is no cell phone service or wifi at Muir Woods. You must download your ticket to your phone before arrival. The monument is open daily from 9 am – 6 pm. There are public restrooms, a cafeteria, and a gift shop in the park. The trees thrive in the cool wet climate of the San Francisco Bay Area. Very little light penetrates the tree canopy, the forest is dark and damp and covered in ferns and moss. Be sure to bring a jacket, The park closes often during California wildfire season due to poor air quality, so check the status before you go. The easiest way to visit Muir Woods is on an organized tour. Many tours combine the visit to Muir Woods National Monument with free time in Sausalito and a stop at the Golden Gate Bridge View Vista Point.
Muir Woods Hikes and Redwood Groves
The main hike at Muir Woods is the Bohemian Grove Trail. It follows Redwood Creek and consists of three loop walks along a wooden boardwalk. The loop walks average 30, 60, and 90 minutes; the full trail is two miles. The trail is appropriate for all ages and strollers. There are three Redwood groves to explore along this trail: Founders Grove, Cathedral Grove, and Bohemian Grove. My favorite area is Cathedral Grove. As you approach you will notice signs encouraging silence. Once in the grove, there is an overall peace. Several paths branch off from the loop for moderate hikes. The Canopy View Trail takes you above the forest, or, follow the Creek Trail to Muir Beach.
Check the Muir Woods National Monument website for current events
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