San Francisco to Muir Woods Cycling Tour

Exploring the San Francisco to Muir Woods Cycling Tour

This San Francisco to Muir Woods cycling tour offers a compelling mix of outdoor adventure, cultural sights, and the chance to experience California’s iconic landscapes firsthand. While we haven’t personally taken this exact ride, the detailed itinerary and traveler feedback provide a clear picture of what to expect from this active day out.

What really appeals to us about this tour is its combination of stunning views, active exploration, and the opportunity to visit a world-famous redwood forest without needing a park reservation—something that often complicates visiting Muir Woods. Plus, the inclusion of a scenic route across the Golden Gate Bridge and optional stops like lunch at Pelican Inn make it feel well-rounded. The only consideration? It’s a rigorous ride that demands a good level of fitness and comfort with mixed terrain, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy a challenge.

This tour is perfect for cycling enthusiasts or active travelers eager to combine exercise with sightseeing. If you love outdoor adventures that push your limits yet reward you with unforgettable scenery, this experience is worth considering.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Expect panoramic vistas of San Francisco, Mt. Tam, the bay, and the ocean.
• Active Day Out: Minimum of 30 miles of riding with 2,500 feet of climbing, suitable for those with moderate fitness.
• Expert-guided: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insights into the landscape and local history.
• Flexible Routes: Options for gravel trails or scenic roads based on your skill level and interests.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Entry to Muir Woods included, with suggestions for lunch at the Pelican Inn or other stops.
• Authentic Experience: No need for pre-booked park tickets; a hassle-free way to visit Muir Woods.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Crissy Field and Crossing the Golden Gate Bridge

The adventure begins at the Sports Basement Presidio, a convenient and well-equipped bike rental spot. From here, you’ll hop aboard your bike and pedal across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge—a thrill in itself. The bridge’s striking architecture and sweeping views make for some of the most Instagram-worthy moments of the day. Expect around 30 minutes for this crossing, with plenty of opportunities to stop and soak in the scenery.

One reviewer mentions that the guides are good at managing the group’s pace, ensuring everyone enjoys the experience without feeling rushed. The bridge crossing is free, but it sets the tone for an exhilarating ride ahead.

Exploring Marin County

Once across the bridge, the ride takes you into Marin County, where the scenery shifts to a tapestry of hills, beaches, and wildlife. Depending on your preference and skill level, the guide can tailor the route to include scenic roads or gravel trails—a flexible approach appreciated by many travelers.

Highlights include breathtaking views of San Francisco, Mt. Tam, and the vast bay, alongside historical sights like military batteries. Wildlife sightings such as deer, hawks, and even coyotes or bobcats are possible, adding an element of nature watching to the ride. Expect this segment to last about 3 hours, providing ample time for photos and short breaks.

One recurring comment from reviews is about the knowledgeable guides who provide interesting commentary and ensure safety on mixed terrains. They also help with route planning based on your fitness and interests, making the experience personalized.

Muir Woods National Monument

After a solid ride through Marin County, you’ll arrive at the crown jewel—Muir Woods. Here, you’ll have approximately an hour to wander among ancient redwoods, some over 200 feet tall. The tranquility and majesty of this forest are something most visitors find captivating, making it a highlight of the tour.

Guests often comment on how peaceful it is compared to the busy city, and the guides typically provide insights into the redwoods’ ecology and history. The entrance fee to Muir Woods is included for bookings after July 2024, adding value to the experience.

Optional Lunch at the Pelican Inn

Post-forest exploration, many choose to relax at the Pelican Inn, a charming pub with outdoor seating and a picturesque setting near the beach. It offers a laid-back atmosphere and classic pub fare, with most meals under $50. Some travelers prefer skipping lunch or choosing alternative stops, especially if they want to keep riding or return sooner.

The guide is flexible—if you prefer a different spot or want to pack your own, that can be arranged. The Pelican Inn’s outdoor options and proximity to the coast make it a favorite for many riders.

Practical Aspects of the Tour

Duration and Group Size

This experience lasts approximately 4 to 6 hours, depending on your pace and chosen route. The group size is limited to eight travelers, which allows for a more intimate, personalized experience. Smaller groups mean better interaction with guides and more flexibility during stops.

Bike Rental and Equipment

Biking gear is not included, but advice is provided on where to rent quality bikes from Sports Basement Presidio, close to the start point. The terrain includes gravel trails and hills, so a bike suited for mixed terrain is recommended. If you’re unsure about your bike, the guides can help you select the right one before starting.

Physical Fitness and Skill Level

This tour isn’t for absolute beginners. It’s described as a rigorous ride, requiring at least moderate fitness, comfort riding on hills, and on mixed terrain. If you’re comfortable with 30 miles of biking and ascents of around 2,500 feet, you’ll likely enjoy this experience.

Weather and Cancellation Policy

The tour is weather-dependent—bad weather may result in cancellation or rescheduling, with options for a full refund or different date. Travelers are advised to check the forecast before booking and packing appropriately.

Cost and Value

At $200 per person, the tour offers a lot for active travelers who want to combine exercise, scenic views, and cultural sights. Entry to Muir Woods is included, and the guides’ local knowledge adds to the value. Considering the hassle of arranging transportation and tickets independently, this package is a convenient way to see a lot in one day.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cycling adventure suits active travelers who enjoy physical challenges and outdoor scenery. It’s perfect for those who want a guided, well-organized route with expert insights. If you’re comfortable with hills, gravel trails, and longer distances, you’ll appreciate the blend of adventure and nature.

It’s less ideal for complete beginners or those who prefer a more leisurely, scenic ride without climbing. Families with older children and seasoned cyclists will find this experience both rewarding and memorable.

Final Thoughts

The San Francisco to Muir Woods Cycling Tour delivers a fantastic way to experience some of California’s most stunning landscapes on two wheels. The combination of crossing the Golden Gate, riding through Marin County, and wandering among ancient redwoods makes it a memorable adventure. The knowledgeable guides and flexible route options ensure your day is tailored to your interests and fitness level.

For active travelers craving a day of outdoor exploration, this tour offers a balanced mix of physical challenge and scenic beauty. It’s an excellent way to see San Francisco’s surroundings from a different perspective, especially if you love cycling and want to avoid the crowds that often flock to Muir Woods.

If you’re prepared for a workout and eager to embrace nature in one of the most beautiful parts of Northern California, this tour could be a highlight of your trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
No, this is a rigorous ride with a minimum of 30 miles and 2,500 feet of climbing, so it’s best for those with moderate fitness levels who are comfortable on mixed terrain and hills.

Where do we start the tour?
The meeting point is at Sports Basement Presidio, located at 610 Old Mason St, San Francisco.

Are bikes included in the price?
No, you need to rent your own bike, but advice is provided on where to rent from nearby Sports Basement.

What makes the route flexible?
Depending on your interests and skills, the guide can choose scenic roads or gravel trails, and stops can be tailored accordingly.

Is the entrance to Muir Woods included?
Yes, for bookings after July 2024, entrance tickets are included in the tour price.

How long do we spend at Muir Woods?
You’ll have about an hour to walk among the redwoods and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Can I skip lunch?
Yes, the Pelican Inn is optional; you can skip or bring your own food.

What should I prepare for the weather?
Be ready for variable weather—layered clothing is recommended, and check the forecast before the tour.

What kind of wildlife might I see?
Wildlife such as deer, hawks, coyotes, and possibly bobcats can be spotted along the route.

Is transportation included?
No, private transportation is not included, and the tour ends back at the start point.

This San Francisco to Muir Woods cycling tour offers a blend of scenic beauty, physical challenge, and expert guidance—ideal for those eager to combine outdoor activity with some of Northern California’s most iconic sights.