The Private Open-Air Jeep Tour
In short: the Muir Woods, Golden Gate Bridge & Sausalito Private Tour is a 3 to 4 hour private tour in English in an open-air Jeep for up to 6 people, from 2870 Hyde St. It adds the Marin Headlands and the Muir Beach Overlook. The Muir Woods entrance fee is not included. It is not suitable for children under 5 and is not wheelchair accessible.
What it is
The only private tour of the six. One party of up to 6 people rides with its own guide in an open-air Jeep, and the route takes in stops the coach tours do not: the Marin Headlands and the Muir Beach Overlook above the Pacific. In Muir Woods the guide walks with the group and there is independent time as well. The listing notes that timing may vary with traffic and park conditions.
The route, stop by stop
- 2870 Hyde St, Fisherman’s Wharf area: the start and end point.
- Golden Gate Bridge: a photo stop.
- Marin Headlands.
- Muir Woods: a guided walk plus independent time; the listing does not state the length.
- Muir Beach Overlook: views over the Pacific.
- Sausalito waterfront, with an optional 1-hour Sausalito upgrade.
Which loop the time fits
The listing gives no figure for the stop. The Bridge 2 loop of the Main Trail takes about 30 minutes and the Bridge 3 loop about an hour, so the guide can say at the entrance which of the two the day allows. The Main Trail loop describes both.
Who it suits
Families and small parties who want their own guide and vehicle, and travellers who want the coast at Muir Beach as well as the forest. Child seats are available on request.
It is not suitable for children under 5 and is not wheelchair accessible. Large luggage, non-folding wheelchairs and strollers cannot be carried. The Muir Woods entrance fee is paid separately for each visitor aged 16 and older, as the entrance fee page explains; under-16s enter free. For families with younger children, Muir Woods with children covers the other options.
What travellers mention
Guide Brian comes up most: Anne from France mentions his clear explanations for the family, and Lawrence from the US and Walter from Austria his knowledge and careful driving. Elizabeth from the US mentions driver Joe’s local tips, and Clare from the UK found guide Edith friendly and knowledgeable.
Astrid from Germany mentions driver Katja’s flexibility with a family. Nicholas from the US mentions the open Jeep and the stops, and Payton from the US the history knowledge and easy navigation.
Practicalities
Included
- Private open-air Jeep
- Local guide
- The stops on the route
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
Not included
- Muir Woods entrance fee (visitors 16 and older)
- Gratuities
- Food
- The Sausalito ferry
Start times are not published as fixed: check the calendar in the booking widget. The car is open, so a jacket is needed even on a sunny day in the city; what to wear covers layers.
An annual America the Beautiful pass covers the entrance fee, and fee-free days apply to US citizens and residents. Free entry days lists the remaining dates.
Two alternatives
14-seat vanSan Francisco: Muir Woods and Sausalito Small-Group Tour
Redwoods + wineFrom San Francisco: Muir Woods & 3 Wineries in Napa & Sonoma
Frequently asked questions
Does the private Jeep tour include the Muir Woods entrance fee?
No. The fee is paid separately for each visitor aged 16 and older; under-16s enter free. The entrance fee page explains passes, and the current amount is on nps.gov.
Can young children join the Jeep tour?
Children under 5 cannot join, and strollers cannot be carried. Child seats are available on request for older children. Muir Woods with children covers the other tours.
Is the Jeep tour wheelchair accessible?
No. The listing states it is not wheelchair accessible, and non-folding wheelchairs cannot be carried. Wheelchair and stroller access covers the paved loops and the ADA shuttle.