Breathing fresh air as we walk along the gigantic Red woods whose crowns embracing the clouds and the fog is such a pleasant experience. 150 million years ago, Redwoods covered most part of northern hemisphere but now only 2 species of redwood remain in United States–both in California. So It is must to see Redwoods while in California. Muir woods is one such place close to San Francisco which is a home to a number of redwood trees. Read through to know more about redwoods at Muir woods.
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Muir Woods and its History
Muir woods National Monument is very close to San Francisco city and in the middle of redwood’s latitudinal range. During the early 1900s, people had cut most of California’s redwoods. Lumbers were needed for houses, forts and many other structures. However the forest along Redwood creek in today’s Muir woods was not touched because of two reasons.
- It was hard to get there.
- Owners William Kent and his wife Elizabeth Thacher Kent protected this place.
In order to protect the redwoods, the Kents donated land to the Federal Government. The then President Theodore Roosevelt declared it as a national monument. President Roosevelt named this place Muir National monument after renowned conservationist John Muir as per Kent’s wish.
How to get to Muir Woods
Muir woods is just 11 miles from the famous Golden gate bridge of San Francisco. Vehicles more than 35 feet long are prohibited. National Monument is open daily from 9 AM to 6PM.
Reservations are required for all the vehicles visiting Muir woods. Make sure to plan ahead and book your tickets.
NOTE – NO CELL PHONE SERVICE AT MUIR WOODS
Uber service might not be a good choice if you are planning to return back from Muir woods as you may not be able to book Uber because of no cellular connectivity. If you are planning to take taxi then request him to return to pick you at a particular time as you might not be able to call.
Shuttle Service : There is a shuttle which operates to Muir woods from Sausalito, Marin City and the Pohono park. More information about the shuttle service can be got from Marin Transit website. This service is not available as of July 2020(Subjected to change). Visit Muir Woods official website to know more about Shuttle services.
Trails at Muir Woods
Muir National Monument has about 6 miles of trails. Trails start from Muir woods visitor Center. As we cross Visitor Center, we are welcomed by a beautiful arch which takes us to the shortest and easiest 1/2 hour loop trail. Entire trail is wood paved.
As we walk along the trail amidst tall redwoods, breathing fresh air and sun kissed trees makes us ecstatic. Main Trail is one way and counter clock wise from Bridge 1 to Bridge 3.
Travel Tips
- No WiFi/Cell phone service at Muir woods.
- Do not feed animals or disturb them.
- Be on the trail. Do not venture out of the trail.
- Do not pluck flowers or mark on the trees.
- Stop at visitor center and get trail map. Do not venture without map.
- Download parking reservation or shuttle ticket well in advance as there is no cellular connectivity/WiFi.
- Pets are not allowed.
- As of July 2020, Ranger talks, Close photo with rangers and Muir woods shuttle is not available( Subjected to Change). To know more about these services visit Muir woods official website
Awesome pics and content….
thanks