Muir Woods Main Trail

The Main Loop Trail at Muir Woods National Monument is a must-visit for just about anyone and everyone. This iconic trail meanders through the heart of the ancient redwood forest, providing an awe-inspiring experience of towering trees that have stood for centuries. The Main Loop Trail offers a manageable and family-friendly hiking experience, with multiple distance options and a stroller and wheelchair friendly trail.

When planning, always check the park website and social media to make sure the trails are open. Similarly, check the weather and road conditions.

Where is Muir Woods Main Trail?

The trailhead for the Muir Woods Main Trail is: Muir Woods Visitor Center, 1 Muir Woods Rd, Mill Valley, CA 94941

Muir Woods is not an easy place to visit.

• The roads there can be windy and narrow.
• There is limited parking, and you must get a timed parking permit to use the lots.
• Public transportation is limited.
• Private tours can be arranged, but you don't have a lot of flexibility.

If you have a car, I'd recommend first visiting the parking and public transportation website at GoMuirWoods.com. Try to get a permit as early as possible. They also have information on the shuttle that runs from the ferry terminal with a limited schedule.

Your other option is to ride-share there, and then taxi back. The problem is that there is no cellular service at the park. But you'll find a payphone at the visitor center (bring coins). I'd write down the number of a taxi company, or even try to book one before-hand.

Gear Recommendations

This hike is very tame and you don't need anything special. That said, fitness clothing and trail runners are your best bet. I'd bring a water bottle. There's a spot along the way to refill. And don't forget, there's no cellular service here, so having a satellite communicator will come in handy if there's an emergency.

My Latest Gear Picks

As a hiking guide, I test lots of hiking gear. On my picks page, I'll show you all of the gear that I actually use. I don't accept paid promotions or talk about the stuff that doesn't make the cut. It's just the gear that works best, so you don't have to waste your money.

All My December 2023 Top Gear Picks

A big thank you to Overwatch x Rescue for covering the travel expenses for this trip.

Muir Woods Main Trail Map

Explore Map on CalTopoView a Printable PDF Hike MapDownload the Hike GPX File

Best Smartphone Apps to Navigate: AllTrails | GaiaGPS | OnX

There's also a map from the Parks Service you can download here.

Muir Woods Main Trail Directions

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If you want to do a ½ hour, ½ mile hike, cross Bridge 2 and simply return.

If you want to do a 1 mile hike, cross Bridge 3 and return.

If you are in a wheelchair or have a stroller, simply backtrack from here to Bridge 3, cross over, and return to the start.

Have a question about the guide or want to see what other people are saying/asking? View the Youtube comments for this video. Leave a comment and I will do my best to respond.

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