Muir Woods National Monument protects old-growth coast redwoods in Marin County, California, just north of San Francisco. Reservations are required for all vehicles and shuttle riders, so arrange parking or the shuttle before you go.
Details
- Type
- Point of Interest
- Accessibility
- Limited accessibility
Overview
The monument protects old-growth coast redwoods (Sequoia sempervirens), a species that grows naturally only in a band along the northern California coast. Trees here average 500 to 600 years old, with some reaching 700 to 1,000 years. William Kent and Elizabeth Thacher Kent bought the land in 1905 and donated part of it to the federal government; President Theodore Roosevelt established the monument in 1908 and named it for conservationist John Muir. It is part of Golden Gate National Recreation Area.
Getting Around
The monument has about 6 miles of trails, much of it asphalt or boardwalk, with loops ranging from roughly 30 minutes to 1.5 hours. Connecting trails climb toward Mount Tamalpais State Park. Restrooms, information services, and trailheads are at the entrance area.
Know Before You Go
Reservations are required for all vehicles and shuttle riders and must be arranged through the park's reservation system in advance. Dogs are not permitted, and there is no cell service in the park.