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Muir Woods

Reviewed August 2026

The Bootjack Loop Trail fits the bill for those wanting to do a ‘hike hike’ away from the crowds into the Muir Woods National Monument wilderness. The hike has a fair amount of climbing and takes you on the more rugged trails of the backcountry.

Distance: 6.5 mi
Difficulty: Moderate
Total Climbing: 1200 ft
Time: 3–4 hrs

Gear Fitness clothes or light hiking gear is fine here. Bring a minimum of 2L of water. You can see all the gear I use on a hike like this here.

In This Guide

Video

Muir Woods National Monument Must-Do Hikes

Trailhead

Muir Woods Map — Although Muir Woods National Monument is only 12 miles away from downtown San Francisco, getting there can be a challenge.

Muir Woods is not an easy place to visit.

The roads there can be windy and narrow.
There is limited parking, and you must get a timed parking permit to use the lots.
Public transportation is limited.
Private tours can be arranged, but you don’t have a lot of flexibility.

If you have a car, I’d recommend first visiting the parking and public transportation website at GoMuirWoods.com. Try to get a permit as early as possible. They also have information on the shuttle that runs from the ferry terminal with a limited schedule.

Your other option is to ride-share there, and then taxi back. The problem is that there is no cellular service at the park. But you’ll find a payphone at the visitor center (bring coins). I’d write down the number of a taxi company, or even try to book one before-hand.

Muir Woods Park Entrance — In addition to the parking or transportation costs, there’s also an entry fee for Muir Woods. I recommend the America the Beautiful Pass which gets you into any park or federal land.

Maps

Directions

Bootjack Loop Trail Directions 02 — The Bootjack Trail is a more primitive single-track and follows the creek upstream.

Bootjack Loop Trail Directions 03 — There’s about 1000 feet of climbing.

Bootjack Loop Trail Directions 10 — When you get to Van Wyck Meadow, make the left.

Bootjack Loop Trail Directions 05 — And then take the TCC Trail.

Bootjack Loop Trail Directions 06 — The the bridge, continue to bear left and join the Stapelveldt Trail.

Bootjack Loop Trail Directions 07 — Right after the bridge continue left on the Stapelveldt Trail.

Bootjack Loop Trail Directions 08 — Continue straight onto the Ben Johnson Trail.

Bootjack Loop Trail Directions 09 — At the Hillside Trail, make the right and continue to Bridge 2 and then the Visitor Center.

Bootjack Loop Trail Guide