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San Francisco to Muir Woods: A Day Trip to the Towering Redwoods

last Updated: May 1, 2023 california marin county Muir Woods

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Heading to the City by the Bay (SF) and thinking about making the short trip from San Francisco to Muir Woods? You’re in luck! This Muir Woods travel guide has everything you need to know for a successful visit to the giant redwoods! 

And when I say everything – trust me. EVERYTHING – you wood not believe it (get it, wood…). Okay, no one said my jokes are funny. :p Now let’s get to it.

Visiting San Francisco for 3 days or longer? You’ve gotta add on a day trip from San Francisco to Muir Woods. Being only a few minutes north of San Francisco in Marin County, Muir Woods is by far one of the best day trips from SF . We always encourage visitors to experience the towering coastal redwoods for themselves!

Psst — don’t have time to read this whole blog post or missed out on a (required) reservation? No worries! Sign up for a Muir Woods day trip tour from San Francisco and let someone else figure out the logistics!

Imagine walking along thousand year old trees in a dense redwood forest. Close your eyes and smell the fragrant red bark. Feel the refreshing, cool misty air on your skin. Yup, we’re talking about Muir Woods here! 

The redwoods are majestic, awe-inspiring, and downright humbling. They’re actually the tallest living organisms on the planet AND they existed when dinosaurs roamed the Earth (kinda insane, right?).

• And although it isn’t actually one of the nine National Parks in California , it is a National Monument! Which is just as impressive. 

Within the 558 acres of Muir Woods, one of the last remaining ancient redwood forests in the Bay Area exists. The National Monument actually preserves these trees, with some of them being nearly 1,000 years old (!!!) and over 250 feet tall (!!!).

Fun history fact → Muir Woods was named after conservationist John Muir, and it was the first national monument to be in such close proximity to a major city!

No one can say it better than John Steinbeck himself — “The Redwoods once seen leave a mark or create a vision that stays with you always”. 

Let’s get this San Francisco to Muir Woods day trip started! First, a bunch of logistics (and yes, I’m sorry, there’s quite a few, but all SUPER important!):

Where is Muir Woods

Muir Woods is located across the Golden Gate Bridge in Marin County, near a tiny town called Mill Valley. And it’s super close to the city (with the distance from San Francisco to Muir Woods being only about 16 miles/30 minutes north), making it the perfect day trip for any nature lovers visiting the hilly city. 

For some reason, visitors assume Muir Woods is in the city of San Francisco itself. And honestly? I can kinda understand why! So many people tack on a morning in Muir Woods to their trip to San Francisco.

When to Visit Muir Woods

TIME OF YEAR

The redwood forest is cool and somewhat damp most of the year. It’s never too hot, and never too cold, with temps ranging from 40-70 degrees F. It’s a tad warmer and dryer from June to August, although this is when it’s most crowded.

Winter is the rainy season (late October – early May), so if you’re coming then – dress appropriately! That means a rain jacket, umbrella – the whole works! However, you never really know what winter will bring – we had bright, sunny weather in early November on our last visit! 

If you have max flexibility, I’d choose September or October for a visit to Muir Woods – as that’s when it’s the warmest. Plus – San Francisco will be most pleasant those months as well, meaning you may catch a few glimpses of the Golden Gate Bridge without the fog impeding the view!

Find my favorite viewpoints of the Golden Gate Bridge here !

TIME OF DAY

And as far as timing goes: go as early as you can! No joke though – Muir Woods gets crazy crowded. No matter the day of the week, and yes, even on weekdays.

Since the Muir Woods tour buses typically start getting to the forest around 9am or so, you’ll wanna make sure you get there prior to their arrival. This means waking up early and eating a quick breakfast in the car! You can have a nice lunch afterwards either in Sausalito or back in San Francisco. 

I’ve also heard that later in the afternoon isn’t as insanely busy, as the tour buses start leaving around 3pm-ish.

How to Get to Muir Woods

You definitely need to plan ahead coming from San Francisco to Muir Woods — 100%. Like, you’ll be turned around and asked to leave if you don’t. Because you NEED to make a parking or shuttle reservation in advance. Keywords: in advance. 

Essentially, you can’t wake up one morning wanting to go to Muir Woods, and actually expect to be walking under the trees in an hour. 

In order to get to Muir Woods, you’ve basically got two options if you’re coming from San Francisco or nearby: driving over the Golden Gate Bridge into Marin County, or taking the shuttle. You can also opt for an organized Muir Woods tour bus if you’d like as well.

I’m getting into lots more detail about the three options, so listen up!

By Car (Driving)

Expect the drive from San Francisco to Muir Woods to take about 30-45 minutes, dependent on which neighborhood you’re coming from. They’ll typically ALWAYS be traffic, but the earlier you leave, the better! 

And once you’re over the bridge, the roads to Muir Woods are quite windy and twisty, so stay alert and be careful. Be a respectful driver: don’t drive too fast, and pull over for others if need be.

• Psst → wanna explore more of Marin County after visiting Muir Woods from San Francisco? Rent a car for a day. You’ll probably wanna check out Sausalito , Muir Beach Overlook, Battery Spencer, and/or Stinson Beach once you’re done walking along the redwoods.

Important Note: If you’re driving a car to Muir Woods, you MUST reserve your parking spot in advance. Like, they’ll turn you around without one. There’s no way around this. Find tons more info about getting reservations below.

By Shuttle 

There’s really no reason to rent a car when visiting San Francisco (unless you wanna make a whole bunch of day trips – my favorites right here ). And thankfully, there’s still a way to get from San Francisco to Muir Woods without your own set of wheels – the shuttle!

The shuttle serves three bus stop locations (all in Marin County), which you’ll need to reserve in advance:

• Sausalito (runs all weekends and holidays plus weekdays in peak summer season, no parking available)
• Marin City (runs all weekends and holidays plus weekdays in peak summer season, no parking available)
• Pohono Park & Ride (runs all weekends and holidays – NO weekdays in summer, but there is free parking!)

You didn’t see SF on that list, now did you? Unfortunately, there’s no shuttle directly from San Francisco. But if you’re visiting SF without a car, you can thankfully take the ferry to Sausalito pretty easily, and then hop on the shuttle from there!

→ Book your shuttle tickets here!

A few things to note about the shuttle: 

• Shuttle tickets are round-trip
• You don’t need a parking reservation if you’re taking the shuttle
• The shuttle reservation fee is currently $3.25 per person (2020), age 16 or older
• The last shuttles of the day fill up quickly, so plan ahead!
• As mentioned above, there’s no routes directly from San Francisco to Muir Woods

Why opt for the shuttle? Well, for starters, you won’t have to drive through the windy roads yourself, so that’s huge if you’re not a fan of navigating through twists and turns. 

And secondly, the super limited and fully pre-booked Muir Woods parking spaces get booked up pretty fast, so if you can’t snag one of those, say hello to the shuttle! Just make sure to get on the right shuttle getting back (it’s easy to get them mixed up and end up in Sausalito if you parked at Pohono, just FYI).  🙂

By San Francisco Redwoods Tour Bus

Looking for the easiest possible way to get to Muir Woods from San Francisco? Join a Muir Woods tour ! Organized group tours are best if:

• Renting a car isn’t your cup of tea
• There’s no more REQUIRED advanced reservations left
• You’re not about complicated public transportation (a ferry ride to Sausalito, then hop on a pre-reserved shuttle to Muir Woods)
• Time is extremely limited and you need the quickest way get from San Francisco to Muir Woods
• Driving on twisty, windy roads sounds super scary

Tour buses take you directly from San Francisco to Muir Woods over the Golden Gate Bridge, without the hassle of reserving a parking spot in advance. And some of these tours even take you to other spots after Muir Woods (think Sausalito and Napa Valley )! Yay! Might as well make the best use of your time!

Psst → if you really wanna visit Muir Woods on a particular day and there’s no parking reservations left, check out a group San Francisco Redwoods tour ! The park does not require Muir Woods tour guests to have parking reservations, since you’re not the one driving!

Recommended San Francisco to Muir Woods tours:

• Muir Woods National Monument Tour with Entrance Fee Included : Escape San Francisco to enjoy California’s pristine nature on this half-day San Francisco Redwoods tour to Muir Woods National Forest. This tour features extended time inside the park, giving you plenty of time to marvel at the beautiful ancient redwood trees. Bonus – it even includes some time in Sausalito AND picks you up from your hotel in San Francisco.
• Muir Woods, Sausalito and Alcatraz Combo Tour : Cross three things off your San Francisco bucket list in one day! Spend the day admiring giant redwoods, the gorgeous Sausalito and the chilling Alcatraz Island. Alcatraz entrance and ferry ticket included!
• Redwoods and Wine Country – Napa and Sonoma Full-Day Combo Tour : Spend the morning among the coastal redwood trees then visit California’s wine country (with fees included for three wine tastings, and learn about the winemaking process). The Muir Woods tour even stops at the Golden Gate Bridge for photos.

Local Tip: Don’t rely on a rideshare from San Francisco to Muir Woods for transportation. Since cell service is extremely limited and pretty non-existent, you’ll have a pretty hard time getting back to SF. You could take a rideshare from San Francisco to one of the shuttle stops though, which would be a good option if you don’t wanna rent a car.

Muir Woods Parking Reservations

Okay, now some of the logistical boring-yet-necessary stuff.

As stated earlier, if you’re driving your own vehicle from San Francisco to Muir Woods (or from anywhere, really), you need to make parking reservations in advance (if not – well, you’ll be turned away). 

EVERYONE needs to make a parking reservation, even if you have an Annual Parks Pass, like America the Beautiful (but not if you’re coming by San Francisco Redwoods tour bus ).

A few years ago, Muir Woods National Monument started requiring visitors to make parking (and shuttle) reservations (kinda like at Haleakalā National Park in Maui, Hawaii ). Why, you ask? Well, the park has gotten oh so popular! 

I remember visiting pre-reservation days (in 2015, I think), and my friend and I had to park over a mile away from the entrance to the park. IT WAS INSANE to say the least. We basically took a hike before our hike. Along narrow roads with cars. So yeah, it wasn’t very safe. And the new reservation system better manages that and reduces overcrowding.

Plus, who wants to be walking along the redwoods only to bump into people every 2 steps? That doesn’t sound like a relaxing stroll in the woods. 

So while it may seem annoying and unnecessary to be forced to reserve not only a specific date but time slot as well (in 30 minute windows), trust me. The other way (without reservations) just doesn’t work for a place this popular. 

Once you enter the park, simply show the staff your reservation, and they’ll direct you to the EXACT spot for you to park. Our experience was super easy, and it was SO much better than looking for and then fighting for a spot! Everyone wants to go to Muir Woods, and everyone always wants the best spot (for whatever reason).

A few important notes:

• If you’re coming on foot, by bicycle, or on a Muir Woods tour bus, you DO NOT  need to make a reservation. 
• Reservations are required seven days a week, year-round.
• A parking reservation for vehicles up to 17 feet is currently $8.50 per vehicle (2020)
• Reservations are available 90 days in advance on a rolling basis.
• Parking reservations are not sold on site at Muir Woods, and must be made in advance.

HOT TIP → There is NO cell phone service or WiFi at or around Muir Woods National Monument. Download (and screenshot) your parking reservation (or shuttle ticket) in advance. You’ll be glad you did.

What to Wear to Muir Woods

Honestly, the weather from San Francisco to Muir Woods probably isn’t all that different. Just like there’s crazy microclimates in San Francisco (and the Bay Area in general), Muir Woods is no exception. 

Muir Woods’ location plays a HUGE role in the weather. Being located in a narrow valley over 1,000 feet above the Bay, AND just across a ridge from the Pacific Ocean, means possible FOG (typically in early morning and late afternoon). 

With that being said, you’ll wanna layer up, yes, even in the summer. It’s always chillier in the woods, and there isn’t much direct sunlight on the valley floor (meaning you’ll be in the shade most of the time). 

So, even if it’s sunny in San Francisco/Sausalito, be sure to bring at least a windbreaker to Muir Woods. You’ll be glad you did.

And of course you’ll want comfy shoes for hiking the trails. On my past few visits, I wore yoga pants or stretchy jeans, sneakers, a tee shirt, and a light jacket and/or fleece. 

How Long to Stay

You’ll only need a day to visit Muir Woods, and possibly not even that much! A few hours will suffice, especially if you visit early in the day before it gets crazy crowded. You could honestly see so much of the park in just 2-3 hours.

We took visitors to Muir Woods a few months ago, and since our reservation was right after opening, we were done exploring by lunch time! We then showed them other things on our recommended 3-day San Francisco itinerary .

Where to Stay When Visiting Muir Woods

Most visitors opt to take a day trip from San Francisco to Muir Woods, and I fully support that decision to cross the Golden Gate Bridge for a morning or afternoon. BUT if you think you’ll wanna explore the area a bit more, why not consider spending a night or two up here? There’s actually lots to see, it’s a pity most people make a beeline for the woods and then leave — typically right away.

With that being said, if you wanna stay north of the Golden Gate Bridge (in Marin County, NOT San Francisco), I recommend spending a night or two in Sausalito or Mill Valley.

My top hotel picks in and around Sausalito include:

• Cavallo Point Lodge (views of the Golden Gate Bridge!)
• Casa Madrona Hotel & Spa (stay in a 1885 mansion!)
• Mill Valley Inn (super close to Muir Woods)

If you’re looking for a more local feel, check out the following AirBnB rentals:

• Dreamy and Modern Airstream Retreat (a boutique hotel feel near Muir Woods)
• The Hideaway Mill Valley (large deck with stunning view)
• The Heart Of Sausalito (soak in the Sausalito sailboats and sunlight from every room)

There’s no camping allowed in Muir Woods National Monument , so that’s not an option. If you’ve got your heart set on waking up under the redwoods, check out Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park in Santa Cruz , Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park in Big Sur , and/or Butano State Park in Pescadero instead. I’ve got my eyes on this AirBnB in Felton a few miles south of San Jose (roughly an hour and a half or so south of San Francisco).

Ticket Cost: $15 park entrance fee (for ages 16 and up) – in addition to any parking reservation fees or shuttle bus tickets.

And if you hold an annual Parks Pass, entry is included! Wooooo!

Additional Tips when visiting Muir Woods (and hiking in general)

• Arrive early and leave on the earlier side to get from San Francisco to Muir Woods! It gets busy, even with the parking reservation system. Plan to visit the gift shop once you’re done exploring the park (and not before). 
• Be sure to LEAVE NO TRACE and do your part to protect the outdoors. Whatever comes with you into the park, comes out. This means no crumbs, wrappers, etc. Anything. And with that being said, no picnics or camping are allowed in the National Monument.
• Always stay on the trail and always look out for poison oak. Going off trail harms plants and causes erosion. 

• Leave the wildlife alone – don’t feed them, don’t chase them, don’t touch them, etc. Keep wildlife wild. Although you probably won’t see too much (well, besides tons of plants and trees), Muir Woods is actually home to more than 380 different plant and animal species.
• There’s NO cell service in the park, so make exact plans with friends to meet up beforehand. Make sure to decide on a meeting spot! And if anyone in your party gets lost, have an emergency meet-up spot as well!
• Bring more water than you think you’ll need, even if it’s foggy or overcast. Avoid dehydration and drink often. Pace yourself, rest in the shade, and eat salty snacks.

Hiking in Muir Woods

This may come as a surprise, but there really aren’t any super long hikes in Muir Woods. So yup, you can fulfill all your redwood fantasies with minimal effort! 

Despite the National Monument being over 500 acres, the longest hike within the actual park is roughly 4 miles. In total, there are only 6 miles of trails; crazy, right?! The different hiking loops take approximately ½ hour (.5 miles), 1 hour (1 mile), and 1 ½ -2 hours (2 miles), all connected and all along Redwood Creek.

You’ll find these easy, well-marked trails right from the entrance after you pay – it doesn’t get simpler than that! Most of the trails are pretty flat, and even boardwalked!

You basically follow the same path from the Visitor Center, but can turn around at whichever bridge you’d like (look at the map above). This path is called The Main Trail , but it’s also referred to as the Redwood Creek Trail sometimes. The shortest loop will have you turning around at Bridge 2 (being a quick ½ mile loop), while the longest has you turning around at Bridge 4 (taking roughly 1 – 1 ½ hours to do the complete 2 mile loop). 

No matter which bridge you turn back at, you’ll pass by the Founders Grove ! This is where you’ll find the largest tree on the entire trail – the Pinchot Tree (dedicated to honor the first chief of the U.S. Forest Service, Gifford Pinchot)! And it’s ridiculously massive and then some. Don’t miss it!

The ½ hour and 1 hour loop are totally paved and super accessible for everyone – strollers and wheelchairs included! The longer 2 mile loop climbs up a bit on some dirt paths – this is the one we hiked (and it was honestly very easy with very minimal elevation gain). 

Next time I want to hike up the Canopy View Trail → it’s known to be way less crowded, and check out The Lost Trail and Fern Creek Trail (appropriately named and lined with lush, green ferns).

However, if you are coming from San Francisco to Muir Woods looking for some longer hikes – don’tchu worry! There are some longer hikes which extend into Mount Tamalpais State Park if you’re looking for something a bit more advanced. 

Other Things do in Marin (near Muir Woods)

As mentioned earlier, you can easily satisfy your craving for redwoods in just a few hours. And that leaves the rest of the day for further exploring! If you’ve got your own car, check out a few of my other favorites in the area:

• Stinson Beach : Sunny day? Dip your toes in the sand and watch the puppies play at Stinson! We love to bring our dog Kona here!
• Muir Beach Overlook : A super short trail brings you directly over the Pacific Ocean! I don’t recommend visiting when it’s foggy though – you won’t see much of a view! Bring a sweater – it’s almost always windy over here.

• Sausalito : Ohhhh one of my favorite day trips from San Francisco! We love to stroll around the waterfront with a cone from Lapperts in hand, and just take in all the warm Mediterrannean vibes. Read my full guide to Sausalito here!
• Mt. Tamalpais : Head over here for much more hiking, with drastically different views!
• Battery Spencer: If you’re looking for those postcard-worthy views of the Golden Gate Bridge, this is where you’ll find them.
• Point Bonita Lighthouse: Visiting on a Sunday or Monday? You’re in luck, as tours to the Point Bonita Lighthouse are only offered these days! One of my favorite hidden gems in the Bay Area!

So there ya have it – my complete San Francisco to Muir Woods day trip guide! Are you planning a visit soon?!

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August 14, 2020 at 5:33 pm

Muir Woods looks absolutely dreamy! I got to see the redwoods recently at Redwood National Park and it was amazing how tall those trees were. This is such a detailed and great article! 🙂

August 15, 2020 at 4:09 am

Once everything opens back up, I can’t wait to go to SF and explore Muir Woods! Thank you for this comprehensive guide.

August 15, 2020 at 7:44 am

This place looks so beautiful and peaceful! I hope I get to visit one day!

July 21, 2022 at 5:20 am

Hi, My family is heading to Muir Woods in a few weeks. We are driving from the city and are wondering where we could stop for lunch close to Muir Woods before we park and begin hiking. Any recommendations are appreciated!

July 21, 2022 at 3:57 pm

Hi Allison, I recommend stopping in Sausalito, right over the Golden Gate Bridge. There’s plenty of restaurants over there! Have a great trip!

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Visit Muir Woods with our totally private walking tour (4 persons max).  Experience Muir Woods in a single day trip with the best mode of transportation. Free hotel pickup from your San Francisco hotel. 

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Woods Coaches - Day Tours

Top ways to experience nearby attractions

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WOODS COACHES - DAY TOURS: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

Woods Coaches - Day Tours

Top ways to experience nearby attractions

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Woods Coaches - Day Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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• Horseback Ride
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• Safari Adventure
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Daily Muir Woods Morning and Afternoon Private Custom Tours

Trip highlights.

• Marvel at the colossal redwoods in Muir Woods.
• Sightsee along the scenic California State Route 1.
• Adventure to the shores of Muir Beach on the Pacific Ocean.
• Tour the charming Mediterranean town of Sausalito.
• View the majestic Golden Gate Bridge from the mountaintops.
• Add a Bay Cruise, Alcatraz Island, or San Francisco city tour.
• Combine Muir Woods with a wine country escapade.
• Combine Muir Woods with an exciting horseback ride.
• Combine Muir Woods with an exhilarating safari adventure.
• Add a hot air balloon or seaplane flight for an extra thrill.

Tour Description

• Alcatraz Island
• San Francisco bay cruise
• Safari animal park adventure
• Hot air balloon ride
• Horseback ride
• Seaplane flights

Tour itinerary

Dive into the Redwood Realm with our specialized daily tours to Muir Woods. Explore colossal redwoods, breathtaking coastal vistas, and the tranquil Muir Beach. Enhance your experience with optional Bay Cruises, city tours, or personalize it with visits to wine country, safaris, and more! Enjoy flexible schedules, inclusive pickups in San Francisco or Sausalito, and passionate guides dedicated to making your Muir Woods adventure unforgettable! Customized for You: Experience the Magic of Muir Woods with Our Daily Private Morning and Afternoon Tours Relax in our luxury SUVs or vans (your choice based on group size) and enjoy a completely private and personalized tour that suits your preferences and interests. After a complimentary hotel pick-up, we head north, crossing the iconic Golden Gate Bridge en route to Muir Woods. Traverse Mill Valley and journey along scenic California State Route 1, pausing for optional photo stops to capture the beauty of the San Francisco Bay Area and the vastness of the Pacific Ocean. At Muir Woods National Monument, embark on a self-guided tour through the serene forest of ancient redwoods. Later, indulge in some shopping at the gift shop and take a coffee break. Did you know? Three California coastal Redwoods could stand as tall as the Eiffel Tower! Capture the unique beauty of this incredible national park. Post Muir Woods, your driver escorts you to the stunning Muir Beach overlook, where hanging cliffs offer breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean's rugged coastline. Take in the spectacular vistas from the vehicle or enjoy a guided walking tour through this picturesque spot. Finally, cruise along California State Route 1 to Sausalito. Explore its shops, stroll along charming houseboats, dine, and perhaps spend the day in this coastal haven, returning to San Francisco by ferry (ferry tickets not included).

• All applicable taxes
• Complimentary pick-up and drop-off in San Francisco downtown or Sausalito
• Muir Woods National Monument & Parking reservation fees
• Four-hour private custom guided tour by luxury SUV or van (based on your choice and group size)

Not Included:

• Meals, Muir Woods entrance tickets and optional activity fees & driver’s gratuity

Tour Prices

This custom tour is conducted by luxury SUV with a professional tour guide The trip is totally private and the price is per person.

This tour is totally private and conducted luxury van (deluxe minibus). The price is per party (per group) and not per person (this is not a public tour you can join)

Included: Pick-up and drop off at your hotel in San Francisco downtown or Fisherman’s Wharf or, Sausalito, all applicable taxes, private guided tour, (this trip is totally customizable). Not included: The price does not include meals , Muir Woods tickets and driver’s gratuity (it’s customary to tip the tour guide 15% in the US) overtime and all optional activities or entrance fees.

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The 5 Best Muir Woods Tours From San Francisco [2024 Reviews]

Muir Woods, located just 12 miles from San Francisco, is a United States National Monument and with good reason. With its majestic redwoods, Muir Woods is a must-see for those who have never had the opportunity to appreciate the enormity of these unique trees.

The fog that often envelopes the forest gives one the impression of walking in a magical place. Some of the wildlife you may encounter include black-tailed deer, foxes, mountain lions, and chipmunks. Over 50 species of birds make their home in Muir Woods.

This popular nature area is conveniently located just north of San Francisco. There are gobs of tour operators that offer visitors the opportunity to explore the woods, in combination with other activities, or just the woods alone.

Best Muir Woods Tours

Be sure to see our reviews of wine tours to Napa & Sonoma Valley , Yosemite tours and Alacatraz tours .

Quick Answer: The 5 Best Muir Woods Tours From San Francisco

• Best Combination Tour: Muir Woods, Sausalito and San Francisco Bay Cruise
• Best Private Tour: Private Muir Woods and Sausalito Tour From San Francisco
• Best Budget Tour: Muir Woods National Monument Tour
• Best Small Group Tour: San Francisco, Sausalito and Muir Woods Small Group Tour
• Best Full Day Tour: Muir Woods Wine Tour with Napa & Sonoma From San Francisco

We have reviewed the top rated Muir Woods tours, providing overviews and highlighting the details of each. We also make recommendations on staying in San Francisco in our guide section.

Muir Woods Tour Reviews

1. best combination tour: muir woods forest, sausalito & bay cruise from san francisco.

• Departure point : 478 Post Street or 2805 Leavenworth Street
• Departure time : 7:40 AM
• Duration : 6 hours
• Includes : Narrated tour to Muir Woods and Sausalito, Admission to Muir Woods with free time to explore , bay cruise

We recommend this tour for those who want the convenience of a coordinated Muir Woods day trip and boating adventure in San Francisco Bay. Viewing the San Francisco waterfront from the Bay provides allows voyagers to appreciate a different perspective of the area.

This well-organized tour includes a visit to the Muir Woods National Monument, a stop in the inviting town of Sausalito, and a boat cruise through San Francisco Bay. The unique vantage point from the Bay affords great photo ops of the Golden Gate Bridge.

Your enthusiastic and entertaining guide/driver takes advantage of the travel to Muir Woods to provide interesting information and to answer your questions about the San Francisco and Marin County. While in the woods, you’ll have time to explore some of the trails on your own.

There are plenty of options and levels of difficulty, so those who aren’t able to manage hillly trails will find one that suits them.

While in Sausalito, you’ll have about an hour to enjoy lunch on your own (or go shopping, if you prefer). Your tour guide will give you insider information about the best places in town to shop and eat.

After your trip to Muir Woods and Sausalito, you’ll return to the pier where you’ll board the cruise ship. Make sure to bring a windbreaker, as it can get chilly on the water. We love this addition to the tour. Getting out on the water isn’t only fun, but it offers unparalleled views of the bridge and coast.

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, other experiences you may enjoy:, 2. best private tour: muir woods and sausalito private tour from san francisco.

• Departure point : Hotel pickup and drop off
• Departure time : 8:30 AM or 1:30 PM
• Duration : 4 hours
• Includes : Private transportation, guided tour of Muir Woods and Sausalito

We recommend this tour for those who want to squeeze in the sights of Saulsalito and experience Muir Woods in a half day. This is a private tour so it’s just the people you want to be with.

You will start your 4 hour tour with a short 30 minute ride to Muir Woods where your driver / guide will give you a private tour of the redwoods forest.

You will be stunned by the size and beauty of the trees, we can guarantee that! You will have about an hour and a half to wander around and soak in the splendor of the park through the network of trails.

Now it’s on to the quaint seaside town of Sausalito. Here you will have an hour to explore the town with your guide or just go off to wander the town and enjoy nice lunch or a drink while you soak in the best views of San Francisco.

Be sure to take lots of photos and your private guide will be happy to stop on the way home for some photos of the Golden Gate bridge or anywhere else you want.

After your private tour is over, your guide will drop you off anywhere in the city you want.

3. Best Budget Tour: Muir Woods National Monument Guided Tour

• Departure point : 288 Beach Street, (hotel pick-up available)
• Departure time : Various- 9:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 2:00 p.m., 4:30 p.m.
• Duration : 3 hours 30 minutes (approx.)
• Includes : Local guide, park admission, transport via luxury coach

We recommend this tour for those who want to focus exclusively on beautiful Muir Woods, but don’t want the hassle of driving on their own. It’s an excellent option for those who want to catch a glimpse of the redwood forest near San Francisco while reserving a portion of the day for other activities.

A large comfortable motor coach or van will transport you to the woods. This 3 ½ hour trip offers a relaxing and peaceful break from the more hectic vibe of the city.

Your friendly, fun driver/guide will entertain you during your trip to provide interesting information about the woods and the area in general. En route to Muir Woods, you’ll stop to get an amazing view of the Golden Gate Bridge where you can take advantage of getting some great shots.

The drive out is beautiful in its own right, with expansive views of the Bay and the green, hilly landscape that lies north of San Francisco.

Once you arrive at Muir Woods, you will have a good 1 ½ hours to explore on your own. There are plenty of areas where you can break from the group to enjoy some solitude under the impressive redwoods.

4. Best Small Group Tour: San Francisco, Sausalito and Muir Woods Small Group Tour

• Departure point : Fisherman’s Wharf, on the corner of Hyde and Beach Street
• Departure time :  9:30 a.m.
• Duration : 7 hours (approx.)
• Includes : Bottled water, local guide, transport in minibus, small-group tour

We recommend this tour for those who want have a closer look at the city, combined with an outing to Muir Woods. Because this tour is geared toward small groups, it’s a good option for those looking for a more intimate and personalized experience.

Your Ultimate Day in the Bay tour is a great way to start your stay in San Francisco for getting oriented with the city. You start off at Fisherman’s Wharf, where you’ll board an air-conditioned minibus to explore the diverse neighborhoods and must-see attractions in San Francisco.

A few neighborhoods you’ll discover include Chinatown, Little Italy, and The Castro. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to snap photos of some of the Bay area’s most famous landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge and Twin Peaks.

Enjoy engaging commentary throughout the trip from your informed driver/guide, who will share interesting facts and stories about the area, including its history, architecture, and culture. Take advantage of his insider perspective to discover locals’ favorites that are worth checking out on your own.

After arriving at Muir Woods, you’ll have about an hour to explore. The park has a slew of trails with varying levels of difficulty, so any visitor should be able to enjoy a walk among its awe-inspiring redwoods.

On your trip between San Francisco and Muir Woods you’ll stop in picturesque Sausalito for lunch on your own.

5. Best Full Day Tour: Muir Woods Wine Tour with Napa & Sonoma From San Francisco

• Departure point : Hotel pick-up and drop off (some exclusions)
• Departure time : 8:00 AM
• Duration :  10 hours
• Includes : Guided Muir Woods tor, wine tasting at 2-3 wineries, hotel pickup and drop-off (check with operator for exclusions), gourmet lunch (upgrade), Free Wifi on vehicle

We recommend this tour for those who want a full day experience. Wine and nature-lovers alike will find this tour satisfying and comprehensive. A gourmet three-course meal is offered as an upgrade.

The bus that transports you to the redwoods near San Francisco and the wineries offers pickup and dropoff for most area hotels, so be sure to check with the operator to see if your hotel is eligible.

This tour packs in a lot of ground in a short period of time, but you won’t feel rushed. Someone else will do the driving while you relax and travel from San Francisco to wine country and Muir Woods. All you need to do is show up and enjoy the ride while taking in the Northern California countryside.

The first leg of your trip will take you to Muir Woods, where a guide will provide commentary about its world-renowned redwoods. You’ll have time to explore the parks nature trail where you may catch a glimpse of its abundant wildlife.

The wine-tasting portion of your tour will take you to both Napa and Sonoma valleys. You’ll visit three charming wineries selected by the tour operator where you’ll learn about winemaking and will have ample opportunity to try several varieties of wine.

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On this tour, you choose your own lunch experience – either on your own (make sure to ask your tour guide for recommendations) or accompany the group for a sumptuous sit-down lunch. Choosing the gourmet lunch option is an upgrade, so is not included in the basic tour fee.

If you decide to enjoy the gourmet lunch, you’ll be treated to a delicious three-dish meal. We can vouch for this- the restaurant serving your three-course meal offers options for both vegetarians, pescatarians, and carnivores. Wine pairing is included, of course!

On this full day tour you won’t miss the opportunity to take amazing shots of the impressive Golden Gate Bridge. Your coach will make a quick stop, giving you to time to snap some photos.

Your Guide to Visiting the San Francisco Bay Area

Airports & entry, planning tips, restaurants & eating out, nightlife & entertainment, getting around, accommodations, attractions.

Located just 13 miles south of downtown San Francisco, the San Francisco International Airport, receives flights from all over the world; making the city highly accessible to would-be visitors.

There are multiple options for transport from the airport to the city. BART is a rail system that offers service between the airport and the city, as well as to the surrounding Bay Area.

San Mateo County’s transit agency, SamTrans, provides bus service from the airport to Transbay Terminal in downtown San Francisco.

A taxi or other car-for-hire service such as Uber or Lyft are other options.

Consider what you’d like to do before packing your suitcase. Do you plan to head to the beach, expect to dine in an elegant restaurant, or attend the symphony while you’re in San Francisco?

Not only should your plans guide you in what to pack, you should also purchase tour tickets and make reservations in advance, for those things you definitely don’t want to miss out on.

The San Francisco food scene will please the picky eater and foodie alike. Whether you prefer basic American grub or are into international cuisine, there’s a huge selection to choose from.

For cheap eats you may consider a deli like the popular Molinari Delicatessen. For a slice of pie on the go, check out Golden Boy Pizza.

If you’d like to treat yourself to an evening of fine dining, Kokkari Estiatorio offers a delectable Mediterranean menu; and Seven Hills is superb for seafood.

As far as moderately-priced establishments go, give La Ciccia, an intimate Italian restaurant, a try. Other great mid-range places include Hog Island Oyster Company for delicious seafood or Roam Artisan Burgers for, well, burgers (vegan options available).

There is no lack of after-hours entertainment in this active city. The performances at the Marrakech Magic Theater combine magic, illusion, and comedy for a thoroughly entertaining experience.

A great place to relax with an adult beverage is the Cityscape Bar & Lounge, which has gorgeous nighttime views of the city.

If you plan to make room for some culture during your visit to San Francisco, both the San Francisco Symphony and the San Francisco Opera give outstanding performances in their respective artforms.

San Francisco has an excellent public transport system, so there’s no reason to go the rental car route. Public transport options include buses, streetcars, cable cars, light rail, and trolley coaches. Of course, taxis and services like Lyft and Uber are available as well.

If you do plan to go with a rental car, rental agencies abound. Depending on the neighborhood and time of day though, you may find it challenging to find available, affordable parking.

San Francisco offers accommodations for all budgets- from basic camping sites in Angel Island and Samuel P Taylor State Parks for those who okay with roughing it, to ultra-exclusive hotels like Fairmont Heritage Place in Ghirardelli Square.

Economically-minded travelers might want to check out area hostels like the highly-rated Green Tortoise Hostel, or a mid-range option such as the chic Scarlet Huntington boutique hotel or the Victorian-styled Queen Anne Hotel.

As a general rule, the Bay Area doesn’t get much rain, with very little rainfall from May to September. The area’s average temperature remains moderate throughout the year, with highs in the 60’s and 70’s and lows ranging in the 40’s and 50’s, year round.

A trip to San Francisco wouldn’t be complete without snapping a selfie with the iconic Golden Gate Bridge as your backdrop. Other must-sees include the notorious Alcatraz prison; Fisherman’s Wharf for sightseeing and shopping; Lombard Street, known as the “crookedest street” in the world; and a ride on the city’s world-famous cable cars.

Other fun things to do include the San Francisco Zoo and the Sea Lion Center. There are loads of parks and gardens where you can meander or enjoy a picnic lunch, such as the unique Japanese Tea Garden and the seaside park Land’s End.

Final Thoughts

A trip to San Francisco wouldn’t be complete without a stop at Muir Woods, especially if you’ve never witnessed the unfathomable magnitude of a redwood forest. They must be appreciated in person, as pictures just don’t do them justice.

There are a variety of tour experiences- from a simple trip to the woods or in combination with other fun and educational side trips. With a little research, you’ll be sure to find one that fits your needs and interests.

Tour Guides

The Muir Woods and Sausalito Tour plus Bay Cruise is our Editor's Choice for the best Muir Woods tour with its combination of sites seen, tour guides and value.

Krysha Thayer

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Muir Woods Tours from San Francisco

This post compares and reviews tours to and from Muir Woods National Park.

We include organized bus tours from in and around San Francisco as well as how to visit the park on your own via a shuttle. Let's explore!

• Tours from San Francisco
• How to Get Here
• Combo Passes/Discounts
• Free Tours by Foot
• Other Day Trips

WHY VISIT MUIR WOODS

The Muir Woods National Monument is an area just a short scenic drive north of San Francisco in Marin County, California.

The Muir Woods is famous for its beautiful coast redwood trees, which can reach a staggering height of more than 300 feet (92 meters) and live for over 1,000 years!

The tallest tree in Muir Woods is 258 feet (79 meters) tall and an astonishing 1,200 years old . Sure enough, these are among the tallest living things in the entire world!

There are 6 miles (10 km) of trails throughout Muir Woods National Monument, allowing visitors to choose from several different hiking routes.

When does Muir Woods open and close?

Muir Woods is open from 8 am to 5 pm (or 8 pm per the time of year). In every season, it closes at sunset.

What is the best time to visit Muir Woods?

The best time to go to Muir Woods is in the spring or fall, early in the morning or late in the afternoon on weekdays. In other words, the best time to visit Muir Woods is from May to October.

Is Muir Woods a difficult hike?

Muir Woods has trails for people of all skill levels, from easy to intermediate. Basically, the answer to this question depends on the trail you choose.

How long does a Muir Woods tour take place?

The tour itself takes 2 hours for a skilled person. But you must be prepared to spend 3 to 5 hours on this excursion, including your travel to and from Muir Woods.

Can you go to Muir Woods without reservation?

Technically, yes. If you arrive by foot, bicycle, or tour bus, you won't need to make a reservation. However, if you plan to drive there yourself, you will need to reserve a spot.

If you drive there without a reservation, you will have to return. At Muir Woods, you must make parking and/or bus service reservations.

The reason for this is that the national park has become much more popular in recent years and there is limited parking available. Due to safety concerns, they now require reservations to be made in advance for all vehicles.

Can you take an Uber to Muir Woods?

It is possible to take an Uber to Muir Woods, but it can be expensive (about $50 to $80 one-way from San Francisco) and hard to find a ride back.

We recommend a tour bus or other accommodations instead.

Muir Woods or Redwood National Forest?

Both the Muir Woods and the Redwood National Forest are beautiful national parks in the state of California.

The two are often confused as both feature old-growth coastal redwood forests full of these massive, ancient 1,000-year-old trees ( Sequoia sempervirens).

However, Muir Woods is much closer to San Francisco and receives a greater number of annual visitors. 

Redwood National Forest is more than 300 miles north of San Francisco, is much larger, and is much less visited.

So, which should you choose to visit during your trip to California? It depends on how much time you have.

Redwoods National Forest

It's 300 miles (483 km) north of San Francisco, so best for those who have the time to dedicate a full day to travel to and from the forest.

It's much larger and quieter, thus ideal for those truly looking for an escape. 

A beautiful forest that is just a 40-minute drive from San Francisco. Smaller than Redwoods National Forest, but features the same type of trees.

GUIDED TOURS OF MUIR WOODS

Each of the following companies offers tours to Muir Woods.

San Francisco Skyline Sightseeing, Gray Line, and Tower Tours lead combination tours that include tours of Sausalito, Sonoma, and/or highlights of San Francisco.

Most tour companies spend between 1.5 to 2 hours in the forest.

As noted below, some companies (such as Skyline Sightseeing and Gray Line) are more transportation services rather than tours, as there is limited guided commentary off of the coach.

Prices range from $50 to over $100 per adult, depending on what other activities are combined with the trip to Muir Woods. 

Skyline Sightseeing Tours (formerly City Sightseeing)

Skyline Sightseeing Tours are classic hop-off-hop-on bus tours that take visitors to several different tourist destinations.

They offer several options that include Muir Woods, including the option to add-on a return ferry to San Francisco (Pier 41), for those who want to spend more time in Sausalito then is included in the tour. 

While on the ferry, you'll pass by Alcatraz Island and get a chance to see this historic site from afar. You'll also enjoy excellent views of the waterfront around Fisherman's Wharf!

This outfit offers complimentary hotel pickup. 

Tours to Muir Woods National Monument with Skyline Sightseeing receive generally positive reviews, with many guests praising the ease of transportation.

Some guests found the tour pick-up/drop-off schedule to be somewhat restrictive, however, this is a common complaint among all organized tours to Muir Woods.

Overall, visitors who traveled with Skyline Sightseeing found the experience very enjoyable and straightforward.

Muir Woods and Sausalito (with optional Ferry back to San Francisco)

• Standard Ticket (without ferry): $82 Adults / $58 Children 
• Departs daily at 9 am and 1 pm from San Francisco with multiple departures from Sausalito daily
• Duration: 4-6 hours
• More info and to book .

Muir Woods and 1 Day City Hop-on-Hop-Off Ticket

• Standard Ticket (without ferry): $129.99 Adults / $84.99 Children 

Muir Woods and Wine Country Tour

This is a 9-hour tour that combines some of Sonoma's best wineries with a stop at Muir Woods. It operates daily at 9 am year-round.  

Be sure to read our post on Sonoma and Napa Valley  wine tours.

• $159.99 - Adult
• $115.99 - Child
• More info and to purchase .

Read more about their hop-on-hop-off city, and Alcatraz tours . 

Dylan's Tours

Dylan’s Tours offer intimate, guided bus tours of San Francisco and the surrounding area, including some trips that will take you to the Muir Woods.

Their main service is a combo tour which includes both Dylan’s Famous Tour and a trip to Muir Woods.

During their San Francisco tour, you’ll visit sites such as Haight-Ashbury, Pacific Heights, and North Beach.

In addition to those options, this company also offers combo packages which include bike rides, a trip to Alcatraz, and more.

Dylan’s Tours is perhaps most well-known for its small group sizes and knowledgeable guides.

Their fleet of mini-buses allows for a more intimate experience than most of the other tour companies included on this list.

A vast majority of guests give this tour company a full 5 out of 5 stars on TripAdvisor. Dylan’s Tours is reported to be very well organized and always on time.

Guides are also complimented for their impressive knowledge and likability. 

In fact, some guests liken the experience to a close friend driving them around for the day. Negative reviews are rare and usually the result of extenuating circumstances.

San Francisco, Muir Woods, and Alcatraz Tour

• $175 – Adults | $119 – Children 
• Departs daily at 8:30 am
• Duration: 8 hours
• Purchase tickets or learn more .

San Francisco, Sausalito, and Muir Woods Tour

• $129 – Adults | $69 – Children 
• Duration: 7 hours

Golden Gate Bridge Bike Ride + Muir Woods Tour

• $105 per person 
• Departs daily at 8:15 am
• Duration: 6 hours
• Not currently available as of December 2022.

Gray Line Tours

There are 3 different tours to Muir Woods National Monument offered by Gray Line Tours:

• (1) Muir Woods and Sausalito Tour
• (2) San Francisco City Tour & Muir Woods
• (3) Muir Woods, Sausalito, and Bay Cruise.  

As each of these tours to Muir Woods includes a visit to a second location, time is inevitably limited at each stop.

You can expect the tour of San Francisco to include several stops in the Fisherman's Wharf area, Chinatown, and beyond!

The seaside town of Sausalito is a great place to visit if you want to find some of the best boutiques, cafes, and restaurants in the Bay Area.

All tours include admission to Muir Woods and hotel pick-up/drop-off during the morning tour.

The Gray Line Tour reviews are very positive, as many compliment the quality of the guides and the ease of transportation.

Some guests complain about the confusion regarding the hotel pick-up location, so be sure to check your confirmation email ahead of time. 

Muir Woods and Sausalito Tour  

This tour brings guests to Muir Woods for 75 minutes and then to Sausalito for another hour.

Guests can choose to extend their stay and pay for their own ferry ride back if they wish.  (4-hour tour).  

This ticket includes the $10 adult admission fee to the park, so as it stands, it's a better value than Skyline Sightseeing's similar tour.

• Without Ferry Ticket: $89 Adult | $69 Child (5-11) | Free for under 5
• With Ferry Ticket: $105 Adult | $79 Child (5-11) | Free for under 5
• Departs daily at various times (4-hour tour)
• More info or to book . 

San Francisco City Tour & Muir Woods  

This tour spends a large majority of the tour in the city in neighborhoods such as Fisherman's Wharf rather than in Muir Woods.

In some instances, guests who chose to depart in the late afternoon were not able to visit the Muir Woods because of its early seasonal closure.  

• $139 - Adult | $96 Child (5-11) | Free for under 5
• Departs daily at 8:40 am

Muir Woods, Sausalito, and Bay Cruise

Finally, guests may take the Muir Woods, Sausalito, and Bay Cruise, which allows visitors to enjoy three sceneries: the woods, the water, and the quaint city of Sausalito.

• $110 Adult | $80 Child (5-11) | Free for under 5
• Departs daily at various times (5.5-hour tour)

Tower Tours

In addition to their many other tours, Tower Tours also offers a tour of Muir Woods, which departs 3x daily and can be combined with other attractions:

• (1) Muir Woods Tour
• (2) Muir Woods Tour + Sausalito Ferry
• (3) Muir Woods Tours + Aquarium of the Bay
• (4) and Muir Woods Tour + Golden Gate Bay Cruise.  

Like the CitySightseeing tour to Muir Woods, this tour is more of a transportation service than a guided tour.

Guests are allowed "up to 1.5 hours" in the forest, though traffic may affect the allotted time.  

They too offer complimentary hotel pick-up from most hotels.

The Muir Woods Tour by Tower Tours is a highly-rated tour with excellent reviews.

Though this company maintains a 4-star rating on TripAdvisor, most of the reviews for their Muir Woods Tour are 5 stars. 

Muir Woods Tour

• $85 - Adults | $55 - Child
• Departs daily at 9 am
• Duration: 3.5 hours

  Muir Woods Tours + Aquarium of the Bay

• $119 - Adults | $79 - Child
• Duration: 5 hours

Muir Woods Tour + Golden Gate Bay Cruise

• $125 - Adults | $85 - Child

Muir Woods Tour + Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour

• $145 - Adults | $105 - Child

Muir Woods Tour + Sausalito + Wine Country

• $175 - Adults | $105 - Child

Extranomical Tours

Extranomical has perhaps the largest selection of tours of any bus company in the San Francisco Bay Area.

They offer several trips to Muir Woods, most of which are combined with other tourist destinations such as Napa Valley, Sonoma Valley, and Sausalito.

Guests are allowed up to 2 hours to explore Muir Woods on their own, during which time they can also buy lunch or hike a particular trail.

Their tours include free pick-up and drop-off at almost any hotel in San Francisco, making the door-to-door service very convenient. 

With a 4 ½ star rating on TripAdvisor and a 4-star rating on Yelp, it’s safe to say that most guests of Extranomical Tours have a great time. 

Most of the negative reviews seem to be centered around scheduling conflicts, but sometimes it’s impossible to foresee issues such as these.

If the only issues with this service are a few random, unforeseen problems with their schedule, that’s a pretty good sign.

Almost every other similar service has received complaints about the bus either being late or broken, so it’s worth noting that Extranomical does not appear to have these problems.

Muir Woods Expedition 

• $89 - Adult | $65 - Child (11 and under) 
• Departing daily @8:15 am and 1:20 pm

Muir Woods Expedition & San Francisco Ferry 

• $104 - Adult | $79 - Child (11 and under) 
• Departing daily @9:30 and 1:20 pm.

Muir Woods and Wine Country (Sonoma and Napa Valley)  

• $169 - Adult | $122 - Child (10 and under)
• Visit Muir Woods and 3 wineries. 
• Departing daily @8 am.

Tom Martell's Famous Muir Woods Tours

Tom Martell's Famous Muir Woods Tours is a small company owned and run by Tom Martell, a naturist and experienced Muir Woods guide.

Tom's tours are fully escorted and aim to inform guests about the flora and fauna of the area, the Redwoods themselves, Indian customs, park and local history, and folklore.

Tom promises that he is "here to give you a glimpse into the life of the forest, not to steer you to the gift shop or hurry you along."

The tour covers 2-4 miles and includes water, snacks, fruit juice, and complimentary pick-up at your San Francisco hotel and drop-off at the Sausalito Ferry.

NOTE: Tom is currently running private tours only . 

More information .

SELF-GUIDED TOURS OF MUIR WOODS

Guests who prefer to hike around Muir Woods on their own or who choose not to use a tour company to travel there can follow several different self-guided walks around the park.

Each ranges immensely in terms of distance and time/difficulty level. 

View the Most Popular Muir Woods Day Hikes and the NPS Map of Muir Woods to plan your visit. 

NOTE: Admission to Muir Woods is now free for all US Veterans and Gold Star Families. Fourth Graders can also visit for free!

COMBO PASSES / DISCOUNTS

Gocity san francisco pass.

This company sells 2 different discount passes that sometimes include visits to Muir Woods:

• All-Inclusive Pass
• Explorer Pass

The All-Inclusive Pass is valid for a 7-day period during which guests are allowed to visit all attractions included on their list.

The Explorer Pass allows you to pick the specific activities you want rather than paying one flat price for everything.

The latter option is more expensive but does give guests access to many more sites.  

NOTE: As of December 2022, these passes no longer include a trip to Muir Woods, but that may change in the near future.

Groupon, Living Social, and GoldStar 

Additionally, there are several other discount websites such as Groupon and   LivingSocial , that periodically offer discounted tours to Muir Woods.

These companies update their deals on a regular basis, so be sure to check each website to learn more about what special discounts are on offer. 

HOW TO GET TO MUIR WOODS

Located just 12 miles north of San Francisco, the address for Muir Woods National Monument is 1 Muir Woods Rd, Mill Valley, CA 94941 ( map ).  

Muir Woods National Monument is open 365 days a year and does not require reservations (unless you are parking).

The forest opens every morning at 8 am and then closes between 5-8 pm depending on the time of year.

For the most up-to-date information, check the National Park Service website.

There is a $15 entrance fee to Muir Woods for those 16 and older. Those under 16 years old are free. This fee is in addition to the optional reservation and parking fees below.

RESERVATIONS REQUIRED

Reservations are required for those driving their own vehicle and those taking the Muir Shuttle.

We have a detailed post on  how to park at Muir Woods , but below is a summary.

Visitors arriving by foot, bicycle, or tour bus are not required to make a reservation.

Reservation fees  (in addition to the park entrance cost):

• A parking reservation fee is $8 per vehicle in addition to the park entrance fee.
• Shuttle bus reservations cost $3 per person, age 16 or older. There is no reservation fee for those under 16, but you still must make a reservation for them.

When to make reservations:

Reservations can be made up to 90 days in advance on a rolling basis.

A limited number of reservations will be held back and released five (5) days in advance to provide access for visitors who were unable to plan their trip further in advance.  

Demand for parking and shuttle reservations will be high  so reserving far in advance is recommended .  

How to make my reservation:

See the  Go Muir Woods  website or call 1-800-410-2419

DIFFERENT WAYS TO GET TO MUIR WOODS

In addition to the information below, you might also want to check our post covering ways to get to Muir Woods .

Via Muir Woods Shuttle:

This is the most common way people get to Muir Woods without a car (outside of taking a guided tour from San Francisco).

This is a seasonal shuttle that services Muir Woods National Moment. 

The round-trip fare for adults is just $5 and free for guests aged 15 and under. (Be sure to make reservations. See above ).

There are 3 different shuttle stop locations from which visitors can take the shuttle, none of which are in San Francisco proper.  

Most visitors to San Francisco will take the ferry to Sausalito, which costs $11.50 each way for passengers aged 5 to 64 (free otherwise). 

• Marin City Hub   (Donahue & Terners)
• Sausalito Ferry Terminal   (Bay & Bridgeway)
• Pohono Street Park & Rid e  (100 Shoreline Hwy, Mill Valley CA)

Read our post on how to take the Muir Woods shuttle .

Via Public Transportation (without Muir Woods Shuttle): 

As the Muir Woods Shuttle only operates seasonally, guests who hope to visit the forest via public transportation might find the trip to be rather long and confusing during the winter months.

The trip takes roughly 2 hours on public transportation from downtown San Francisco to Muir Woods National Monument. 

Click here to see precise routes and timetables.  

By Car: 

Visitors can also opt to drive to Muir Woods National Monument. It is only about a 40-minute drive, however, can take much longer if traveling during heavy traffic. 

Y ou must make a reservation for parking . (See above ).

If all spots are reserved for your chosen date, you may want to look into taking the Muir Woods Shuttle or even a guided tour with one of the companies suggested below.

Via Guided Tour:

Finally, guests can also visit the Muir Woods with a guided tour company that brings visitors directly into the heart of the park.

For more information about guided tours of the Muir Woods, please see the following section . 

Important: Pets, bicycles, smoking, horseback riding, and camping are not permitted within the park. Food is not permitted in the forest.

Wine Tours and Other Day Trips from San Francisco

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About The Author

Stephen Pickhardt

North america, united kingdom & ireland, middle east & india, asia & oceania.

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Air Tours Package Holidays & Coach Tour Holidays

Our air tour package holidays and coach tour holiday department organises departures throughout the UK and mainland Europe. Details of our full range of meticulously planned holidays are published, twice a year, in our own brochure. We also have on-line versions of these which can be found on our brochures page. We use our own fleet of touring coaches, and book hotels of the very highest standard. The vast majority of tours include the Woods pioneering Door-to-Door service, ensuring the perfect beginning and end to your holiday.

Click to display only the following:

• Main Brochure 2023-24
• Main Brochure 2024
• Newsletter January 2024
• Welcome to Woods
• Coach Tours - Booking Form
• Coach Tours - Terms & Conditions

Door to Door Service Area

This map represents the approximate area, that our door-to-door service covers, however if you are outside this area please contact us for more information.

FOR MYSTERY TOURS ONLY - The inclusive door to door service is available to those living inside the dotted line. If you live between the dotted and the solid line, there will be a taxi supplement of £15 per person.

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A History of Moscow in 13 Dishes

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Day trip to Suzdal from Moscow: transport, sights, maps and tips

 DAY TRIP TO SUZDAL

  Suzdal is one of the most popular destinations on the Golden Ring and the whole city is often described as an open-air museum.  The city has no railway station and practically no heavy industry, meaning that is has preserved its provincial charm and a great deal of architectural monuments.

  From Moscow, Suzdal is not as easy to get to as Sergiev Posad (the closest Golden Ring city to the capital) but it is worth going the extra distance as Suzdal provides more of a contrast from Moscow.  If you make use of high-speed trains it is possible and not too demanding to visit for even just a day, but of course spending the night there is recommended to soak in the atmosphere or to combine it with a visit to neighbouring Vladimir.  As the city is a very popular tourist destination you will have no problem finding a cafe or guesthouse there.  There is practically no public transport in the city, but the city is small and most sights are located relatively close to each other.

Getting There and Back

Via Vladimir

Direct to Suzdal

  Buses directly to Suzdal leave from Moscow’s Schyolkovsky Bus Station.  There are about 9 buses a day and it takes around 4½ hours depending on traffic.  The buses stop at Vladimir too.  Using this option will mean a rather exhausting day trip.

Orientation and Main Sights

  Suzdal is a relatively small city and it is not difficult to walk around the city to see most of the sights.  

  The main road in the city is Ulitsa Lenina which runs north across the whole city.  

  The main sights of Suzdal are located either on or just off this road, including the two main sights: the Suzdal Kremlin in the south and the Spaso-Yevfimiev Monastery in the north.

  More information about Suzdal can be found on our Suzdal  pages.

  Suzdal is famous for its medovukha (mead) which is an alcoholic drink made out of honey.  It can be drunk either hot or cold, meaning it perfect in both summer and winter, and you will find it on practically every menu in the city.  There are various flavours of the drink available and even a non-alcoholic version.  In addition to medovukha, you can find all traditional Russian souvenirs in the city and there is a big souvenir market on Torgovaya Ploschad.

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