Muir Woods National Monument — Attraction in Mill Valley

Let’s put it this way, visiting Muir Woods is a once in a lifetime experience. I say this because there are many places to see redwood trees and sequoias in and around the Bay Area. In fact, there’s an even bigger forest in Northern California that you can make a long trek to. But, this is the most accessible old growth grove I know of and it’s the most popular destination among folks visiting the Bay Area for a reason.

Having lived in the Bay Area for a nice chunk of time let me give you a few tips:

Stop talking. 🙊 Seriously, no one will remember the conversation, focus on the environment. It’s very annoying to hear someone blabbing a hundred feet away about who cares.

Plan ahead. 🗺️ This place used to be mobbed every day and thank goodness they put a serious offer visitation and parking restrictions to protect the park.

Buy something. 🌲 In fact, buy something from the booth you get tickets at. It goes directly to the park and they have some of the coolest, limited edition stuff you’ll find.

Stop and look. 👀 There are some species you won’t see anywhere else. The staff has done an outstanding job maintaining the park and it’s worth smelling fresh air and taking a few beats to appreciate everything.

Look up ⬆️ Being from the NYC area, I’m always astonished that there’s some stigma associated with looking up (the fastest way to let people know you’re a tourist). Guess what? You are a tourist and there are beautiful architectural features in NYC and within the canopy of the redwood grove.

Don’t forget to take pictures 📸 It can be easy to be overwhelmed by the beauty, stop and take some pictures and grab a few videos.

Don’t step off the boardwalk 🚷 Seriously. I see people quickly jumping off the boardwalk to take pictures. Don’t do that, there are creatures who live on the forest floor and you’re stomping on their homes with your lame travel crocks.

Ask questions 🤔 There are rangers everywhere and they have very interesting things to tell you. Ask questions and FOR SURE join a tour if your timing is good.

Fall in love 🥰 Find something to fall in love with while you’re in the park. Trees, birds, banana slugs; there are loads of things to notice, remember, and obsess over for years to come.

Have fun, take your time 🕰️ Don’t rush through the park, it isn’t a race. Spend at least an hour here, start on the main boardwalk entrance, walk some amount of time, cross a bridge, and then walk back. There are lots of options depending on how much time you have and your ability to walk.

Thanks for coming to my TED talk on Muir Woods. While living in the Bay Area my wife and I became members and we spent a lot of time here. It means the world to us and we hope you feel the same. 🌲 ❤️

✨ Bonus advice: thanks for reading the whole review! Here’s some bonus advice… Get there AS SOON AS THEY OPEN. you’ll thank me later, this place gets busy and it’s a totally...

Muir Woods National Monument in Mill Valley, CA, is an absolute gem and a sanctuary of natural beauty that left me in awe from the moment I entered this majestic forest. Nestled just a short drive from San Francisco, Muir Woods is a haven of tranquility and an absolute must-visit for nature enthusiasts and anyone seeking a respite from the hustle of city life.

The towering coastal redwood trees, some reaching heights of over 250 feet, create a cathedral-like atmosphere that is both humbling and awe-inspiring. Walking along the well-maintained trails, I felt a profound connection with nature as sunlight filtered through the dense canopy, casting a magical glow on the forest floor.

The variety of trails caters to different levels of fitness and interest, from easy strolls to more challenging hikes. The informative signs along the paths provide fascinating insights into the ecology and history of these ancient trees, enriching the overall experience.

The main loop through the heart of the forest features the Cathedral Grove, a serene spot that invites quiet contemplation. The atmosphere is peaceful, and the babbling Redwood Creek adds to the sensory experience, creating a symphony of nature's sounds.

The visitor center at Muir Woods is well-designed and educational, offering valuable information about the redwood ecosystem and the efforts to preserve this natural wonder. The friendly and knowledgeable staff were eager to answer questions and share their passion for the park.

Parking and amenities are well-organized, and the shuttle service from nearby locations makes access convenient. The fact that Muir Woods is part of the National Park Service ensures that it is well-maintained and preserved for future generations to enjoy.

In conclusion, Muir Woods National Monument is a true marvel of nature, and visiting it is an immersive experience that fosters appreciation for the beauty and importance of preserving our natural heritage. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a casual nature lover, Muir Woods offers an unforgettable escape into the enchanting world of ancient redwoods. Highly recommended for a soul-soothing and...

I visited Muir Woods National Monument on a quiet Monday afternoon, which I’d highly recommend if you’re looking to experience the park without the heavy crowds that can gather on weekends. It’s important to note that entry is by prepaid reservation only, and parking must also be paid in advance. This system helps manage visitor numbers, but it’s something you need to plan for ahead of time.

This was my second time visiting, and while I found it beautiful, I remember my first visit leaving a deeper impression. Perhaps it was the novelty back then, but nonetheless, the towering redwoods still held a sense of timelessness and majesty that is hard to find elsewhere.

Despite it being a weekday, there were still a handful of visitors. However, the crowd was light enough that you could easily find pockets of solitude, where the quiet of the forest enveloped you completely. The serenity of Muir Woods is what sets it apart; it’s a place where you can stroll slowly, breathe deeply, and even find moments of meditation amidst the ancient trees.

The main trails are well-maintained and accessible, making it an easy walk for most visitors, with options to explore further for those seeking a bit more adventure. The air feels different here—cool, damp, and filled with the earthy scent of the forest. It’s a refreshing escape from the hustle of daily life.

The visitor center and store offer a great selection of snacks and food. The options were surprisingly good; you can enjoy a simple, well-made meal before heading back out. The shop also has a variety of souvenirs, ranging from books about the local flora and fauna to unique keepsakes that make for thoughtful gifts.

Overall, I’d rate my experience 4.5 stars. Muir Woods is still a special place worth visiting, even if the initial awe I felt years ago has softened slightly with familiarity. It remains a peaceful, rejuvenating experience, perfect for anyone looking to connect with nature in a...