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Free Traveling Guides » States » California » Greater San Francisco
Muir Woods
Muir Woods is an ancient stretch of coastal redwood forest located 12 miles (20 km) north of San Francisco in Marin County, just across the Golden Gate Bridge. Spread over an area of 554 acres (224 ha), Muir Woods is a protected zone under the National Park Service in Marin County, California. Declared as a National Monument by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1908, Muir Woods is one of the major tourist attractions of the San Francisco Bay Area. The park has been named after John Muir, who was a famous American Naturalist.
Muir Woods contains the world’s largest collection of coastal redwood trees, which are the tallest living trees on earth. Most of the trees inside Muir Woods is between 500 and 800 years old. However, the oldest living coast redwood tree is 1,100 years old. Even though these trees can grow up to a height of 380 ft (116 m), the height of the tallest tree in Muir Woods is 258 ft (79 m). Some of the other popular tree species growing in this region include the California Bay Laurel, the Big Leaf Maple and the Tanoak. These trees have all adapted well to survive under the canopy of the redwood trees.
One of the major attractions at Muir Woods is the Redwood Creek, which flows through the park. Two distinct species of salmon which come to this creek every winter for spawning are a star attraction. These species include the Coho or Silver Salmon and Steelhead Trout. Muir Woods has around 50 species of birds, including the rare Northern Spotted Owls and Pileated Woodpeckers. Mostly nocturnal or burrowing animals, including 11 species of bats and the American Shrew Mole, also inhabit Muir Woods.
So as to preserve the ecosystem of Muir Woods, camping and lodging are not permitted here. This is a day-use area with facilities including restrooms, cafes and gift shops. The park contains 6 miles (10 km) of paved walking trails with easy access for wheelchairs and strolling mothers.
The annual Dipsea Race passes through Muir Woods. This annual footrace event is held between Mill Valley and Stinson Beach. In addition, weddings and special events during summers and winters can be organized inside Muir Woods.
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