Muir Woods is the perfect place close to San Francisco to reconnect with nature. The park has different trails that vary in length, skill, and terrain. All the trails allow guests to admire the towering coastal redwoods and beautiful scenery. Enjoy your time in Muir Woods by hiking any of these five trails.
Bootjack Trail to Ben Johnson Trail Loop
Distance: 6 miles | Time Required: 3 ½ hours | Difficulty: moderate to hard
This stunning trail is perfect for anyone looking for a more challenging Muir Woods hike and would like to spend a half-day exploring the forest. On this hike, you will follow the Redwood Creek until you come to a historical gathering site known as Van Wyck Meadow. To the left, you will find the next part of the trail, where you will cross multiple canyons. This section of the trail was created by the Tamalpais Conservation Club during World War I. You will come to a fork in the path; take the left trail known as the TCC trail. Follow the switchbacks, and they will take you back down into Muir Woods.
Fourth Bridge – Hillside Trail
Distance: 2 miles | Time Required: 1 ½ hours | Difficulty: easy to moderate
This trail is perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy a beautiful, short hike and escape the crowds on the main trail. Start your hike on the main trail and cross over the 4th bridge. Look out for the “Hillside Trail” sign. On this trail, you will walk along a dirt path that leads you up to the edge of a canyon, where you will have a stunning view of the forest. You will walk uphill for about 40 yards before coming to the path that curves along the canyon edge. The path doubles back, leading you into Muir Woods.
Dipsea Trail
Distance: 4 miles | Time Required: 3 hours | Difficulty: moderate
This hike allows you to experience the beauty of Muir Woods, as well as Mt. Tamalpais, the Pacific Ocean, and San Francisco. Enjoy the lush forest as you hike up the steep, half-mile-long hill that takes you to an exposed ridge, where you will see some of the most beautiful views of the Bay Area. For a slow journey back to Muir Woods, take the Ben Johnson Trail. For a longer hike, take the Dipsea Trail to Stinson Beach.
Main Trail Loop – Visitor Center to Cathedral Grove
Distance: 1 mile | Time Required: 1 hour | Difficulty: easy
The main trail in Muir Woods is the most crowded but is great for anyone who wants to enjoy the outdoors despite being short on time. The trail starts at the Muir Woods Visitor Center and follows Redwood Creek. This trail is paved, making it accessible for wheelchairs or strollers. If you’d like to shorten your journey, you can cross over the 2nd, 3rd, or 4th bridges and follow the trail back to the visitor center.
Ocean View Trail to Lost Trail
Distance: 3 miles | Time Required: 2 hours | Difficulty: moderate
This peaceful hike takes you on the Lost Trail, discovered in the 1930s due to a landslide. Start by taking the Ocean View Trail, where you’ll enjoy magnificent views of the Pacific Ocean. After about 1.3 miles, turn left onto the Lost Trail and immerse yourself in the deep forest. The trail ends at Fern Creek Trail, which you will follow to get back into Muir Woods.
