Did you know that just over the Golden Gate Bridge there’s a forest of Coastal Redwood trees? Muir Woods is one of the oldest national monuments in the country, and its close proximity to one of the largest cities in California makes it a popular place to visit. For that reason, Muir Woods reservations are required to park or ride the shuttle in order to visit. Read on to learn more and plan your trip to Muir Woods.
Last updated July 19, 2021. This page may contain affiliate links.
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What You Need to Know About Visiting Muir Woods
Here are some important things you should know before you go to Muir Woods:
- There is no Wi-Fi or cell reception at the national monument.
- Uber cannot transport you due to the lack of cell service/internet
- Parking or shuttle reservations are required and can be made here or by calling 1-800-410-2419. Find more information below.
- Due to limited reception, please download or print your reservation receipt before arrival.
- Muir Woods reservations are required; parking is not sold on-site and you will not be allowed to drive around and search for a parking space.
- Pets are not allowed on Muir Woods trails or shuttles. Service animals are permitted. According to the Americans with Disabilities Act, emotional support animals are not service animals.
- In addition to the Muir Woods reservations, there is also a fee to enter the park. It’s $15/adult (16+) unless you have a valid America the Beautiful pass.
Things to Do in Muir Woods
In addition to hiking to see the coastal redwood forest (which we will dive into below), there are plenty of other things to do in Muir Woods!
For families, why not become a Junior Ranger? This free program is available at all 400+ national parks across America. Children (or adults!) will receive an activity booklet to complete. Then, turn it in to a ranger to receive a free badge.
You can also join a park ranger for a program! Check the event calendar to see what programs are occurring during your visit. You can also check the event board upon arrival. The most popular programs include 15-minute tree talks.
If you’d rather explore on your own, self-guided booklets are available at the visitor center for $1. You can also enjoy exhibits and information posted throughout the park as you walk around.
Just three miles from Muir Woods is Muir Beach and Muir Beach overlook, a popular place to marvel at the grand Pacific Ocean.
Muir Woods Hiking Trails
In Muir Woods National Monument and the neighboring Mount Tamalpais State Park, there are a variety of hiking trails. Your Muir Woods reservations and entrance fee will grant you access to all of the hiking trails on both national and state park land.
You can download detailed hiking maps for Mount Tamalpais State Park and Muir Woods.
Main Trail
The main trail through the redwood forest loops around via multiple bridges. Depending on how much time you have, you can make your hike shorter or longer. Using the bridges will form loops on both sides of the stream.
The trip to Bridge 2 is only 1/2-mile (0.8 km). To make a loop via Bridge 3 is 1 mile (1.6 km). For the longest hike on the main trail, continue to Bridge 4 (2 miles/3.2 km) and return via the Hillside Trail. Hikes via Bridges 2 and 3 are wheelchair accessible while the hike to Bridge 4 has an elevation gain of 90 ft.
My favorite section of this trail was the Cathedral Grove, the park’s quiet sanctuary. You’re encouraged to talk lightly and make little noise as you walk through and reflect on the beauty. To reach this section, travel beyond Bridge 3.
Longer Hiking Trails
By connecting the Main Trail in Muir Woods with trails in the state park, you can create longer, more difficult hikes.
Popular options include a few different loops. Canopy View to Lost Creek to Fern Creek is perhaps the most popular. It’s about 3 miles (4.8 km) with 530 feet in elevation gain. On the hike, you’ll enjoy solitude as you continue to explore the redwoods and come across some other coniferous trees.
More options for hiking in Muir Woods are available on the official website.
Muir Wood Reservations
Muir Woods reservations are required year-round for either parking or a seat on the shuttle. Reservations can be made up to 90 days in advance or on the day of your visit, depending on availability.
Parking reservations for Muir Woods cost $8.50 per standard vehicle. Every 2 years, this price increases by 50 cents. Reservations are also required for ADA spaces. Click here for additional pricing.
Reservations can be made via the park concessionaire, Ace Parking Management, online or over the phone at 1-800-410-2419.
Your timed parking permit will have an entrance time. You can arrive 30 minutes before or after the time printed on your ticket. Once you have parked your car, you are permitted to stay until the park closes.
Why Does Muir Woods Require Reservations?
When visiting Muir Woods, you’ll notice the park is situated on narrow, curvy mountain roads. As the park quickly increased in popularity, roadside parking and walking became a safety hazard. The Muir Woods reservations system ensures visitors can visit the park safely without worrying about finding a place to park. It will also reduce overcrowding in the redwood forest.
Muir Woods Shuttle
Like other national parks in California, Muir Woods has instituted a shuttle system to assist with overcrowding.
Shuttles in Muir Woods run every weekend and on holidays. The shuttle can be picked up at the Pohono Street Park & Ride. Click here for more information about shuttle stops.
When running, shuttles arrive about every 10 minutes. Shuttles are ADA accessible and each can hold up to 2 wheelchairs.
Shuttles are not equipped with bike racks, you cannot bring bicycles on the shuttle, and bicycling is not permitted inside Muir Woods.
Where to Stay Near Muir Woods National Monument
As one of the national parks near San Francisco, there are plenty of options for places to stay.
To stay as close to Muir Woods as possible, you’ll want to stay in the area of Mill Valley. Here are a few options for you:
- Acqua Hotel
- Mill Valley Inn
- Tamalpais Motel
- Travelodge
- Holiday Inn Express
- Muir Woods Lodge
- Mountain Home Inn
Pin Our Muir Woods Reservations and Planning Guide
