John Muir Birthday Tour

Our Local Expert Says:

Only found along the northern California coast (and into southern Oregon), the massive redwood is truly one of nature's most stunning creations.

Description:

Commissioned by President Teddy Roosevelt and named for conservationist John Muir, these woods are a tribute to the enchantment of redwood trees. For anyone who's encountered California redwoods, you know of what we speak. For those who haven't, Muir Woods National Monument is the perfect place to experience these majestic wonders for the first time. When you enter the park, you're treated to flat, paved walking paths that meander through the lush grove of towering redwoods, spiraling ferns, and other native plants, complete with historic and scientific explanations of the forest's features. We recommend taking this classic Muir Woods route and then ascending higher towards where you can choose from a variety of dirt hiking paths; that's where the magic truly happens. As most visitors stick to the easy ground-level path, hikers are treated to a truly serene experience the higher they climb, sometimes hearing almost nothing but delicate birdsong. Some trails originating in Muir Woods go all the way to Stinson Beach or to gorgeous parts of Mount Tamalpais State Park, or lead to very special local secrets, such as the Tourist Club, a German beer tavern. (Because what's better than a refreshing... read more

Description:

Heading north on Highway 101, from the Golden Gate Bridge, the small southern Marin "town" of Muir Beach is just 6 miles from the Highway 1 exit but feel a world away. It's comprised of around 150 homes of mainly full-time occupants, who are lucky enough to enjoy the 2 beaches, the surrounding Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Mt. Tamalpais, nearby Muir Woods National Monument, Green Gulch Farm/Zen Center, Slide Ranch and the "old" English Pub---The Pelican Inn. This beautiful area is full of wildlife: Monarch butterflies in the pine trees, salmon in Redwood Creek, frogs in the pasture, fox, birds, deer, coyote. Horses and dogs are usually allowed on the beaches and some trails (but be sure to check with the rangers for updates or changes), the waves are great for boogie boarders and kayakers, the fishing is plentiful, and the star gazing is endless.

Description:

This is a fun choice after a trip to Muir Woods, or just as a getaway from The City. It looks like an English manor and the food inside continues the illusion with Yorkshire pudding, bangers and a succulent mixed grill. This being Marin, there are a few other choices on the menu, such as Escargots and Scampi. The Sunday brunch features a buffet with and excellent selection of egg dishes as well as Prime Rib and Smoked Ham. There is a kids menu, too, making it a great place for families to join the other upscale clientele who congregate here. The mood is casual and the service quick and personable.