Muir Woods & Sausalito Day Trip from San Francisco — Redwoods, Views, and Ferry Options | other | wildlife

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Muir Woods & Sausalito Day Trip from San Francisco — Redwoods, Views, and Ferry Options | other | wildlife | bus-tour

Read the full experience

You meet at Fisherman’s Wharf and the city peels away behind you: the bus threads the base of the Golden Gate Bridge, fog hugging the orange towers like a dare. In under an hour the roar of traffic is replaced by bird calls and the hush of an old canyon. The trail underfoot is soft with needles; trunks the color of warm chocolate rise and hold the sky.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

4–5 hours.

Fitness level

Suitable for most fitness levels; expect 60–90 minutes of easy walking on mostly flat boardwalks with optional short side trails.

Frequently asked questions

Is Muir Woods entrance included in the tour price?

Yes—the tour price includes the official Muir Woods entrance fee and about 90 minutes of free time to explore the main boardwalks.

How long is the walk in Muir Woods?

Expect roughly 60–90 minutes on the main trails provided by the tour—routes are mostly flat with short, optional side trails that add difficulty.

Can I return from Sausalito to San Francisco by ferry?

Yes—many travelers add a ferry from Sausalito back to San Francisco; ferry tickets are purchased separately and schedules vary by season.

Is the site wheelchair accessible?

Main boardwalks in Muir Woods are wheelchair accessible, but some trails are uneven; advise the operator ahead of time if you need assistance.

Local insights

Wildlife

banana slug
Steller’s jay

History

Muir Woods was protected in 1908 and named after naturalist John Muir; it preserves a remnant of old-growth coastal redwood forest in Marin County.

Conservation

The park limits private parking and manages visitor numbers to protect sensitive root systems and understory habitat—stick to trails and pack out waste.

About Tower Tours - San Francisco's Sightseeing Specialist

Tower Tours - San Francisco's Sightseeing Specialist operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.

Base locationSan Francisco, California

Tours offered4+

Specialtyland-adventures

StewardshipLeave No Trace

Adventure tips

Dress in layersFog and shade in Muir Woods make temperatures several degrees cooler than the city—bring a windproof mid-layer and a light shell.

Comfortable footwearBoardwalks are easy but side trails can be rooty and damp—wear sturdy sneakers or light hiking shoes.

Timing for photosVisit early departures (9:00) to avoid peak crowds and catch softer morning light through the canopy.

Ferry return optionIf you plan to take the ferry from Sausalito back to San Francisco, budget time to purchase a ticket and check schedules—ferries can fill on weekends.

Recommended gear

Layered jacket: Protects against cool, damp fog in the redwood canyon.
Sturdy walking shoes: Provides traction on boardwalks and damp, rooty side trails.
Refillable water bottle: Hydration for the walk and to reduce single-use plastic in the park.
Compact camera or phone with good battery: Capture towering trunks and bay views—low light under the canopy favors steady shooting.