Muir Woods National Monument050

In a lush canyon just 45 minutes north of the Golden Gate Bridge dwells what naturalist John Muir called "...the best tree-lovers monument that could possibly be found in the forests of the world."

Muir Woods National Monument is one of the finest preserves of old-growth coast redwoods in the state, with many opportunities for children to see and interact with these awe-inspiring trees, some as much as 1,200 years old.

Summer and fall are the best seasons to see Muir Woods; the huge trees produce so much shade that it can be chilly and dark in winter and spring, and winter rains make the unpaved trails muddy and treacherous.

As you explore the park, you may see chipmunks and deer, especially if you come early in the morning. The variety of wildlife is not as great as you'll find in the more open land surrounding the park; the deep shade under the redwoods limits the amount of plant food that can grow, thereby limiting the animal population. Keep an eye out for salamanders in the damp leaves. They're relatively slow, making them good candidates for viewing by young naturalists.

Hiking: Numerous hiking trails meander throughout the park, many accessible to younger children. If you want to take a short stroll, the main trail loop from the Visitor Center to Cathedral Grove is a level, paved trail that is both stroller and wheelchair accessible. About a mile long, this trail should take about an hour at a leisurely pace.

To explore side trails that are not paved, wear closed shoes with treaded soles. The trails can be slippery. There's plenty of poison oak in the woods, so don't let children wander.

Muir Beach: You may be ready for sunshine afterwards. If so, visit nearby Muir Beach and soak up some warmth.

Here is a map to Muir Woods.