Mill Valley - Muir Woods National Monument

The tallest trees in the world are the so-called redwoods or mammoth trees, which thrive only in California and South Oregon, including those in Muir Woods National Monument some 15mi/24km north of San Francisco. Since 1908 the park has been controlled by the National Park Service, which has a Visitor Center (tel. (415) 388-2595) at the entrance where detailed information can be obtained.

Age of the trees

This 550 acre/223 hectare area of forest, named after the famous naturalist and founder of the Sierra Club, John Muir, contains large numbers of redwoods, the botanical name of which is sequoia sempervirens. The tallest trees in Muir Woods reach a height of 240ft/73m. In the first 100 years they grow 12in./30cm each year, then the rate of growth slows down. The oldest mammoth tree (now dead) was 2,200 years old; the average age is 400-800 years. The trees' root systems spread out sideways to about 150ft/46m, but the depth never exceeds 6.5ft/2m.

Trails for walking

In Muir Woods there are about 6mi/10km of well-signed trails. As it is often cool and damp even in summer, you should take warm clothing.

How to get there

From San Francisco, take Highway 101 via the Golden Gate Bridge as far as the CA 1 turn-off, which takes you direct to Muir Woods. At the weekend it is also possible to take the ferry from San Francisco (Ferry Building) to Larkspur.