Muir Woods Hiking Trails and Muir Beach

A short drive north (16 miles) of San Francisco is an exceptional nature site, the Muir Woods National Monument. The drive across the Golden Gate Bridge, along Highway 101 and then on winding country roads, takes about 45 minutes. Muir Woods is one of the last remaining old-growth coastal redwood forests in Northern California and is appreciated for its magnificent scenery. Hikers relish the peaceful and refreshingly shaded trails that meander through fern-fringed creek banks, canopies of giant redwood trees, and groves of fragrant bay laurels.

It's possible to take another three-mile trail from Muir Woods down to the Pacific Ocean at Muir Beach. This sandy beach offers camping sites and picnic areas. Nearby is The Pelican Inn, where you can grab a hearty meal of authentic English country cuisine before taking the hike back to Muir Woods. Due to the crowds and limited space, Muir Woods National Monument requires that visitors make a reservation in advance for paid parking or for a shuttle bus ride. Many tourists find that it's easier to leave the driving and parking to a tour guide. One recommendation is the Muir Woods and Sausalito Half-Day Tour, which departs from San Francisco.

Website: www.nps.gov

Address: Muir Beach, CA, United States

Phone: +1 415-561-4700

Entrance fee: $15

Google rating: 4.7/5.0