Pedaling Under Giants: A San Francisco Ride to Muir Woods
Cross the Golden Gate, climb coastal ridges and stand among ancient redwoods—30 miles of road and gravel that rewards sweat with silence.
The bike hits a gust of wind as the skyline of San Francisco shrinks behind you. Salt air tangles with chain oil; the Golden Gate’s orange towers loom up, turning a utilitarian span into a frame for the Pacific. For an hour or two the world is speed and cadence—traffic and ferry horns receding, a cemetery of foghorns smudged at the edges—then the road hooks inland and the grade begins to climb. You climb for a different kind of quiet: an hour later you’ll trade the bridge’s humming infrastructure for the thick, breath-held hush of old-growth redwoods.
Trail Wisdom
Start Early
Begin at dawn to avoid weekend bridge traffic and catch cooler, calmer winds for the Golden Gate crossing.
Bike Choice
Use a road or gravel bike with 28–40mm tires—some approaches include short rough sections where wider tires help.
Hydration & Fuel
Carry a hydration pack or two water bottles and energy snacks—food options are limited between Mill Valley and Muir Beach.
Respect the Grove
Lock your bike and enter Muir Woods on foot — the boardwalks and trails are protected and biking is not allowed inside the main grove.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Muir Beach Overlook for a cliff-top ocean view
- •The trail to Bootjack Campground for quieter redwood pockets
Wildlife
Steller’s jay, Black-tailed deer
Conservation Note
Muir Woods is a protected old-growth stand—stay on boardwalks and trails, pack out all trash, and follow park rules to minimize impact.
Muir Woods was designated a national monument in 1908 after land was donated by William Kent and conservancy efforts preserved its old-growth redwoods.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Cool temperatures for climbing, Wildflower and lush understory, Birdwatching in the thicker scrub
Challenges: Occasional rain, Muddy gravel spurs, Variable temperatures
Spring brings green, cooler climbs and blooming understory, but expect wet patches and muddier gravel sections—pack a lightweight rain shell.
summer
Best for: Drier roads and gravel, Longer daylight hours, Warm seaside temperatures
Challenges: Bay fog on the bridge mornings, Higher weekend traffic, Warmer inland climbs
Summer offers stable, dry riding and long days—start early to beat fog and crowds and bring sunscreen for exposed sections.
fall
Best for: Clear views from ridges, Cool, pleasant riding, Fewer tourists in mid-week
Challenges: Chillier mornings, Possibility of rain late season, Shortening daylight
Fall often provides crisp air and excellent visibility—ideal for cycling and photography—just layer for cool mornings.
winter
Best for: Empty roads on clear days, Dramatic weather contrasts, Spotting migrating raptors
Challenges: Rain and slick roads, Colder, gusty winds on exposed ridges, More limited daylight
Winter is possible but wetter and colder; choose clear forecast windows, and prepare for slick descents and stronger winds.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Road/Gravel Bike (28–40mm tires)Essential
Versatile for paved climbs and rougher gravel connectors; wider tires add confidence on broken surfaces.
HelmetEssential
Protective and required for guided tours and safe riding on busy roads.
Hydration Pack or 2 Water BottlesEssential
Keeps you hydrated for sustained climbs and bridges where stops are scarce.
Spare Tube, CO2/mini-pump and Multi-toolEssential
Essential roadside repair kit for punctures or mechanicals away from shops.
Common Questions
Do I need a Muir Woods reservation to join the tour?
No; this guided cycling tour handles entry logistics—participants do not need to reserve a separate Muir Woods timed entry.
Is the route suitable for beginners?
The ride is challenging—30+ miles with 2,500 feet of climbing—so it's best for conditioned riders with experience on mixed pavement and some gravel.
Can I rent a bike for this tour?
Yes—the tour recommends Sports Basement’s Presidio store, which is near the start and offers road and gravel rentals.
Are bikes allowed inside Muir Woods?
Bikes are not permitted on the main boardwalks; riders typically lock bikes outside and explore the grove on foot.
How much climbing and distance should I expect?
Plan for a minimum of about 30 miles and roughly 2,500 feet of elevation gain, though exact mileage varies with route choices.
What about weather and wind on the Golden Gate Bridge?
Bridge winds can be strong—start early for calmer conditions and layer clothing to manage cool, windy crossings.
What to Pack
Helmet (safety), Hydration (water for climbs), Multi-tool & spare tube (mechanicals), Layered wind/rain jacket (coastal microclimates)
Did You Know
Muir Woods was proclaimed a national monument in 1908 by President Theodore Roosevelt, protecting a rare stand of old-growth coast redwoods near San Francisco.
Quick Travel Tips
1) Rent near the Presidio to avoid transporting bikes across the city. 2) Start early to beat winds and crowds. 3) Download maps—cell service is spotty in the woods. 4) Bring cash or card for Pig on Pelican Inn or Mill Valley stops.
Local Flavor
After the ride, head to Mill Valley for casual eateries or the Pelican Inn in Muir Beach for pub fare and a local ale; for coffee, check out Mill Valley’s cafes—this town has the small-town Pacific-coast flavor that balances city intensity.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: San Francisco International Airport (SFO) / Trailhead start: Crissy Field, Presidio (start point). Driving distance: ~14–20 miles from downtown SF to Muir Woods depending on route. Cell service: Good in city, limited in Muir Woods. Permits: Muir Woods uses timed-entry for private vehicles; guided tours generally handle park entry.
Sustainability Note
Muir Woods is a protected old-growth stand—stay on trails, avoid bringing single-use plastics, and follow Leave No Trace to preserve root systems and understory habitat.