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Park Info: The Natural and Human History of Muir Woods

Muir Woods is one of the last old-growth coast redwood forests on Earth and the reason William Kent donated this canyon to the federal government in 1908. The forest has its own wildlife, its own plant communities, and more than a century of stewardship history. Three deep-dive guides below.

Animals of Muir Woods

Ten bat species, 50+ birds including spotted owl and pileated woodpecker, coho salmon and steelhead in Redwood Creek, and the invertebrates that hold the forest floor together.

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Plants & Nature

The four layers of an old-growth redwood forest, 13 species of ferns, rhododendrons and redwood sorrel, 200+ fungi species, and the interdependent community that keeps it all alive.

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History of Muir Woods

From the Coast Miwok to William Kent’s 1908 gift, the naming for John Muir, and more than a century of National Park Service stewardship.

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More Nature and Science

Old-Growth Forest Science

What defines old-growth, why dead trees matter as much as living ones, and how fungi and fog together make the system work.

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Weather & Climate

Cool, damp, foggy year-round. What to expect month by month and how to dress for it.

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Related Guides

  • Leave No Trace at Muir Woods
  • Trail Map & Hiking Guide
  • Best Time to Visit
  • Photography Guide
Ready To Visit Muir Woods? Learn More!

Visit

  • Directions & Transportation
  • Muir Woods for Kids
  • Eating & Sleeping
  • Muir Woods Parking
  • Operating Hours

Park Info

  • Animals
  • History
  • Nature & Plants

Travel Tips

  • Pet & Dog Policy
  • Trail Map & Hiking Guides
  • Tours

Contact The Park

Mailing Address:
Muir Woods National Monument
1 Muir Woods Rd
Mill Valley, CA
94941

Phone:
(415) 561-2850

© 2026 Muir Woods. This website isn't affiliated with any government entity

    Close Menu
    • Home
    • Visit
      • Directions & Transportation
      • Muir Woods for Kids
      • Eating & Sleeping
      • Operating Hours
      • Muir Woods Parking
      • Tours
    • Get Involved
      • Support Muir Woods: Donate & Volunteer
      • Leave No Trace
      • News
    • Park Info
      • Animals
      • History
      • Nature
      • Plants
    • Travel Tips
      • Pet & Dog Policy
      • Trail Map & Hiking Guides
      • Tours