Muir Woods Park
Imagine strolling through an ancient grove of giant sequoias as you behold the majestic redwoods. Take a leisurely nature walk with an informative guide, who knows the native coastal flora and fauna — including ferns, laurel trees, and the occasional deer. Cross moss-lined creeks and stand in awe beneath trees that reach 250 feet (76 meters) skyward. And it’s all possible on a day trip from San Francisco.
These are the kind of experiences you have on guided day trips from San Francisco to the giant redwood forests of Muir Woods National Monument, named after the American naturalist who pretty much single-handedly responsible for the national park system. We always choose guided tours from San Francisco, instead of going through the hassle of figuring it out ourselves. These allow you to simply enjoy the experience, leaving the planning, and driving to someone else.
Muir Woods Park, Giant Redwoods & Sausalito
Cross the Golden Gate Bridge for stellar views of San Francisco from Vista Point before you head to the coastal mountains on your way to Muir Woods. There you take your time to roam through the ancient forest of giant California redwood trees.
The last stop is at Sausalito, a Mediterranean-style seaside village on the north shore of San Francisco Bay. Stroll, shop, and explore the art and scenery at this famous California artist colony. This relaxing half-day tour includes hotel pick-up and delivery and all entrance fees. You have the choice of a morning or afternoon tour.
Muir Woods, Sausalito & A Bay Cruise
Combine a visit to Muir Woods Park and Sausalito with a cruise on San Francisco Bay. You cross the Golden Gate Bridge and head to to Muir Woods, the site of a virgin forest of California Coast redwood trees. Then visit to Sausalito, one of the prettiest villages in California. Stroll along the waterfront, shop or take photos in this picturesque artists colony nestled on the northern shores of San Francisco Bay.
Next, sail right by Alcatraz and under the Golden Gate Bridge on a narrated one-hour cruise. The cruise takes you under the bridge for views of Alcatraz Island and the San Francisco waterfront. Hotel pickup and drop-off and all entrance fees are included.
Alcatraz Tour + Muir Woods + Sausalito
On this day tour, you’ll be able to contrast the austerity of Alcatraz to the beauty of Muir Woods Park and the village of Sausalito. The day begins with a ferry ride to Alcatraz to learn about the famous prison escape attempts, the 1946 prison riot, and life on the rock.
After you complete your prison term (of 5 to 10 years?) cross the Golden Gate Bridge for spectacular city views from Vista Point. Drive along the coastal mountains to Muir Woods for a walk through a forest of California giant redwoods. The last stop is Sausalito, an artists’ colony nestled along the waterfront of Marin County.
Muir Woods and Wine Country Tour
Discover why Muir Woods and Wine Country are two of San Francisco’s most popular day-trip destinations. The day starts with a refreshing stroll through Muir Woods National Monument, exploring spectacular sequoia forest. Then you drive to the Wine Country for superb wine tastings at the best Napa and Sonoma family-owned wineries — such as Madonna, Cline, and Mayo.
Bonus: view Alcatraz and the Marin Headlands from the Golden Gate Bridge plus beat the crowds at Muir Woods! This tour combines the two destinations at a special price.
John Muir walked away into the mountains,
In his old overcoat a crust of bread in his pocket.
We have no knowledge and so we have stuff, and
Stuff with no knowledge is never enough to get you there.
It just won’t get you there.
– Two Little Feet, by Greg Brown