7:30 AM: Departure from San Jose

Travel Method: Private Car or Rideshare

Route: I-280 N and US-101 N

Travel Time: Approximately 1.5 hours

What to Expect: Start your journey early to maximize your time in the park. The drive is scenic, offering views of rolling hills, forests, and the San Francisco Bay as you approach Muir Woods.

9:00 AM: Arrival at Muir Woods National Monument

Location: 1 Muir Woods Rd, Mill Valley, CA 94941.

Overview: Reaching Muir Woods National Monument feels like stepping into a world untouched by time. The towering redwoods, their bark glowing faintly in the dappled sunlight, inspire awe and humility. The forest hums with life, yet it feels profoundly quiet—like nature itself is inviting you to pause, breathe, and simply be. Click here! for more information.

Pro Tip: Muir Woods can get busy, so arriving early ensures a peaceful experience before the crowds arrive. Parking is limited, so expect to pay for a parking spot or reserve your spot ahead of time.

9:15 AM: Visitor Center and Orientation

Location: Muir Woods National Monument

Overview: Start your visit by stopping at the Visitor Center to pick up a map of the park. The center also provides information on the park’s history and ecology.

Cost: Entry fee is $15 (per adult).

Time Duration: 2 hours

Pro Tip: If you haven’t made a parking reservation, check availability at the entrance. If the parking lot is full, you may need to park at the overflow lot and take a shuttle.

11:30 AM: Walk the Main Trail

Location: Muir Woods National Monument

Overview: The Main Trail Loop takes you deep into the heart of the redwood forest. You’ll experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the coast, and redwoods with some trees towering over 250 feet tall.

Trail Description: 0.5 miles; Easy, and flat trail.

Cost: Free (included in park entry).

Time Duration: Around 1 hour

Pro Tip: This trail is perfect for a leisurely stroll, so take your time and absorb the serene atmosphere of the forest.

12:30 PM: Hiking the Ben Johnson Trail

Location: Muir Woods National Monument

Overview: The Ben Johnson Trail loops around the park, offering fantastic views of the trees from different angles. It’s slightly more challenging than the main trail but still very manageable for most hikers.

Trail Description: 2.2 miles round trip; Moderately difficult

Cost: Free (included in park entry).

Time Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours

Pro Tip: Bring a water bottle and wear comfortable shoes for a bit more strenuous hike. This trail gives a great perspective of the ancient redwoods and surrounding forest.

2:30 PM: Lunch at the Park or Nearby

Option 1: Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch at one of the picnic areas inside Muir Woods. Be sure to bring a blanket or sit at one of the outdoor tables available.

Option 2: If you’d rather go off-site, drive to nearby Mill Valley for a bite to eat. Equator Coffees and Teas or The Hummingbird Cafe are popular local spots for a relaxing meal.

Cost: $10–$20 (depending on where you eat).

Time Duration: 1 hour

Pro Tip: Try to pack light, easy-to-carry meals such as sandwiches or salads for a peaceful picnic in nature.

3:30 PM: Explore the Fern Creek Trail

Location: Muir Woods National Monument

Overview: The Fern Creek Trail begins near the Main Trail and follows Fern Creek through a lush redwood forest. Along the way, you’ll pass through dense ferns, moss-covered trees, and tranquil creekside views, offering a quieter and less crowded experience than the Main Trail.

Trail Description: 4.8km (Round trip); Moderately difficult

Cost: Free (included in park entry).

Time Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours

Pro Tip: It's a more peaceful, moderately challenging option with slightly more elevation gain compared to the Main Trail but without being as strenuous as some of the longer hikes.

5:00 PM: Visit the Muir Woods Gift Shop and Depart

Location: Muir Woods National Monument

Overview: On your way out, stop by the Muir Woods Gift Shop to pick up souvenirs, books, or local products to remember your visit.

Cost: Souvenirs and gifts range from $5 to $30.

Time Duration: 30 minutes

Pro Tip: Check out the locally made jewelry or educational books about the redwoods.

5:30 PM: Return to San Jose

Travel Method: Private car (approximately 1.5 hours via US-101 S).

Route: US-101 S

Time Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours

What to Expect: Take a scenic route back to San Jose, passing through Marin Headlands (if you have time), and enjoy the views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Bay Area before heading south.