Muir Woods Park and Muir Beach Overlook

Question

I'll be visiting San Francisco this and the beginning of next week. Right now the official website for Muir Woods says the parking lot is closed today. Does that mean the whole park is inaccessible? Can you park somewhere else and go on the trails (e.g. the fern creek trail)? How about the Muir Beach Overlook? It also says the parking lot is closed. Does that mean I will not be able to go on the Muir Beach Overlook? Thank you in advance for any insight.

Answer

When the official website for Muir Woods National Monument lists the parking lot as closed, it generally means that the main parking area is not available for visitors. However, this does not necessarily mean the trails themselves are closed. The park often remains accessible via shuttle services or by walking/biking from nearby areas, depending on closures and conditions.

For Muir Woods:

If the parking lot is closed, you may still access the park using the Muir Woods Shuttle (if operating) from designated locations such as Sausalito or Mill Valley.
Street parking is extremely limited and sometimes restricted along the nearby roads. Make sure to check local signage to avoid fines.
Hiking directly from outside the main entrance is possible, such as using the Fern Creek Trail or other connecting trails, but you will need to enter through an official park access point and may need a timed reservation or ticket, depending on the day.
The park’s main visitor center and facilities may be closed along with the parking lot.

For Muir Beach Overlook:

A closed parking lot usually only affects access by vehicle; it does not necessarily close the overlook itself.
You can often hike in from nearby trailheads or parking areas if available, but access might require additional walking along roads or connecting trails.
Check current trail conditions and any notices from Marin County parks or the National Park Service for updates on accessibility.

Tips:

Arrive early in the day if planning to hike in from alternate access points, especially on days when parking is closed.
Check the official Muir Woods website or the National Park Service alerts page for up-to-date information before your visit.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking longer distances if you cannot park close to the trailhead.

In summary, a closed parking lot does not necessarily mean the park or overlook is entirely inaccessible, but you will need to adjust your plans for alternative transportation or a longer hike from nearby access points.

Muir Woods Park and Muir Beach Overlook

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