Muir Woods National Monument

California is famous for its Redwood Trees, but did you ever looked at them really close? If not you should definitely visit the Muir Woods National Monument on a nice day. Muir Woods is a part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, known as one of the largest urban national parks in the world.

Muir Woods is located just a 11 mile drive north of the Golden Gate Bridge in Marine County. For just $5 per person you can enjoy a relaxing walk through the woods. The National Park Service offers six different walking trails through the area. I would suggest at least to take the 1,5 hour loop because they will bring you even at busier weekend days to some quiter places of the woods. You will be surprised how tall trees can become: The tallest tree is about 260 feet high and some of them are already 1200 years old.

But be careful: Even on hot summer days it can be quite cold in the woods, so don't forget to bring warm clothes with you.

More information, directions and a schedule of tours you can find on the website of the National Park Service at www.nps.gov/muwo.

Marin Headlands

The Marin Headlands is an excellent place to go if you are interested in relaxing. It features a tour of the headlands that includes a viewing of the lighthouse located on the premises (you must be sure that you are not scared of heights though; for the bridge you have to walk across to reach the lighthouse is very high over the bay waters). There are hostels you may rent to stay in as well. You may do fishing, hiking, sunbathing on the beach (with a portion that has black sand), horse back riding, and much, much more! There are also places to take great photos including an old military base and the Golden Gate bridge.

The headlands are open Wednesday through Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. everyday except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day (the lighthouse tour is not open if it is raining severely). The best part about this location is that it is absolutely free admission!

The Marin Headlands are located in Marin just off of the Golden Gate bridge. For more info such as directions, etc. please call (415)331-1540 or go to http://www.nps.gov/.