San Francisco: Muir Woods Cycling Tour (Road And/Or Gravel)

Exploring the stunning natural beauty of Muir Woods by bicycle is a unique and unforgettable experience. This cycling tour offers visitors the chance to traverse both the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and the serene Marin Headlands, allowing them to soak in the breathtaking vistas at their own pace. Whether you prefer the smooth, winding roads or the challenge of gravel paths, the tour caters to all levels of cyclists, promising an immersive adventure amidst towering redwoods and the chance to spot local wildlife. With a carefully curated itinerary and the expertise of experienced guides, this tour promises to be the highlight of any San Francisco visit.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Bike Tours In San Francisco.

Key Points

• This 4-6 hour cycling tour offers a choice of road or gravel routes, with the highlight being a 30-minute bike ride across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge.

• The scenic Marin Headlands portion of the tour features 1.5 hours of cycling and potential wildlife sightings like bobcats, coyotes, and deer.

• Participants have the option to explore ancient redwoods in Muir Woods during the tour, with flexible routes catering to varying fitness levels.

• The tour includes a safety briefing, bike rental assistance, and a local guide to ensure an exceptional and safe cycling experience.

• Pricing is $200 per person, with a small group size limited to 8 participants and a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview and Pricing

The Muir Woods Cycling Tour from San Francisco offers an exceptional opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts, with its $200.00 per person price tag and a duration of 4-6 hours.

The small group size is limited to 8 participants, and the tour is available in both English and Spanish.

Customers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Plus, the tour allows for reserve now and pay later, making it convenient for those wishing to book their spot without an upfront payment.

Whether seeking a scenic bike ride, a hike through the ancient redwoods, or a chance to spot local wildlife, this tour provides an unforgettable experience.

Itinerary and Highlights

The Muir Woods Cycling Tour starts at the Sports Basement Presidio in San Francisco, where participants receive a 15-minute safety briefing.

From there, they’ll bike for 30 minutes across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge.

The scenic bike tour through the Marin Headlands lasts 1.5 hours and is followed by an optional hike in the ancient Muir Woods National Monument.

Lunch is served at the Pelican Inn or other local spots, depending on the chosen route.

Participants may spot wildlife like bobcats, coyotes, and deer.

The total ride covers a minimum of 30 miles with 2,500 feet of elevation gain.

Routes and Options

Routes for the Muir Woods Cycling Tour are based on participants’ climbing appetite and interest in gravel cycling.

Riders can choose between two options – a gravel route and a road route. The gravel route includes a lunch stop at the charming Pelican Inn and offers scenic coastal views.

The road route, on the other hand, features more climbing and a lunch stop in Mill Valley or Sausalito.

Regardless of the route, the tour can be tailored to the group’s preferences, and the start time is negotiable.

Both options provide an opportunity to experience the stunning natural beauty of Muir Woods and its ancient redwoods.

Bike Rental and Safety

Bike rental assistance is available for participants of the Muir Woods Cycling Tour, with the recommended rental location being the Sports Basement Presidio Store.

The tour prioritizes safety, utilizing bike trails or lanes as much as possible. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, the tour isn’t suitable for:

• Individuals unable to ride a bike
• Children under 18
• Those with low fitness levels

Plus, certain attire isn’t allowed, such as sandals, and intoxication is prohibited.

Participants will receive contact information upon booking to confirm the meeting point and time, and recommendations on food and beverage stops will be provided.

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What to Expect

Participants can expect a comprehensive and immersive cycling experience on the Muir Woods Cycling Tour. The 4-6 hour journey begins with a safety briefing before embarking on a 30-minute bike ride across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge.

Cyclists then venture through the scenic Marin Headlands for 1.5 hours, taking in stunning coastal vistas. An optional hike in the ancient redwoods of Muir Woods National Monument follows, where wildlife like bobcats, coyotes, and deer may be spotted.

Lunch at the Pelican Inn or other local eateries refuels participants before the return trip, which features a minimum of 30 miles and 2,500 feet of elevation gain.

The tour’s flexible routes cater to varying fitness levels and interests in gravel or road cycling.

Getting There and Back

The tour begins at the Sports Basement Presidio store in San Francisco, providing convenient access to bike rentals and the starting point of the cycling adventure.

At the start location, you will receive a safety briefing and get outfitted with their bicycles. From there, the group will embark on a 30-minute ride across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, taking in stunning views of the San Francisco Bay and the Marin Headlands.

The tour then continues through the Marin Headlands, offering a scenic 1.5-hour ride before reaching the highlight of the day – Muir Woods National Monument.

After exploring the ancient redwoods, the group will enjoy lunch at a local hotel before returning to the starting point.

• Convenient starting location at Sports Basement Presidio
• Scenic 30-minute ride across the Golden Gate Bridge
• 1.5-hour cycling tour through the Marin Headlands

Preparation and Packing

Although the Muir Woods Cycling Tour is primarily focused on the cycling and hiking activities, it’s important for participants to come prepared with the right gear and essentials.

For the cycling portion, riders should wear comfortable, moisture-wicking clothing and sturdy shoes with good traction. Bringing a water bottle, snacks, and a spare inner tube is also recommended.

While hiking in Muir Woods, proper footwear, such as hiking boots or sturdy sneakers, is a must. Participants should also pack sun protection, like sunscreen and a hat, as well as layers for changes in weather.

Following the packing list and being prepared will help ensure a safe and enjoyable tour experience.

Tour Provider and Contact

The Muir Woods Cycling Tour is operated by a reputable local adventure company based in San Francisco. This company specializes in curating unforgettable outdoor experiences for visitors to the Bay Area.

To book this tour, simply visit their website or call their friendly staff. They’ll handle all the details, from bike rentals to route planning and lunch reservations.

Some key highlights about the tour provider:

• Highly experienced and knowledgeable local guides
• Small group sizes for a personalized experience
• Flexible start times and custom route options
• Seamless coordination and logistical support

For any questions or to reserve your spot, don’t hesitate to contact the tour operator directly. They’re committed to ensuring you have an exceptional Muir Woods cycling adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I Need a Bike Helmet for the Tour?

Yes, a bike helmet is required for the tour. Safety is a top priority, and all participants must wear a helmet to participate in the cycling activities as it helps protect against head injuries in the event of a fall or collision.

Can I Bring My Own Bicycle on the Tour?

Yes, you can bring your own bicycle on the tour. However, the tour operator recommends using their bike rental service to ensure the bikes are properly maintained and suitable for the terrain and route. Personal bicycles may not be allowed if deemed unsafe or incompatible.

Is There Any Additional Cost for the Muir Woods Entrance Fee?

The Muir Woods entrance fee is included in the tour price of $200 per person. This covers the cost of accessing the national monument during the cycling tour through the Marin Headlands.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Pets are not allowed on the Muir Woods Cycling Tour. The tour is focused on cycling and hiking, and the presence of pets would not be suitable for the group experience and safety considerations.

Is There an Option for an Electric-Assisted Bicycle Rental?

Unfortunately, the tour does not allow electric-assisted bicycle rentals. The tour is designed for traditional bicycles, and the use of e-bikes is not permitted to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants.

Recap

The Muir Woods Cycling Tour offers a unique and unforgettable experience for cyclists of all levels. With its breathtaking scenery, flexible route options, and guided expertise, it’s the perfect way to explore the natural wonders of San Francisco and the surrounding Marin Headlands. Whether you choose the road or gravel path, this tour promises an outdoor adventure you won’t soon forget.

You can check if your dates are available here: