Giants of the Forest

I recently was able to revisit Muir Woods, about 30 miles north of San Francisco. It is a national monument, a few hundred acres of giant redwood trees, wisely saved in the early 20th century from logging that was happening all over the western forests. The park hosts millions of visitors each year, so they have instituted a reservation system to handle the volume of people and cars.

Walking the trail, it is obvious why these woods are so popular. The redwoods are immense, the tallest trees in the world! They thrive here and in rare other locations,  because their needles have adapted to absorb moisture from the frequent fog along the Pacific coast. Many grow in ”families”-several trunks from one root system. Single trees often get blown over in strong winds because their roots are shallow, so families are another adaptation for survival.

What a shame that redwoods are harvested to make deck furniture because the wood doesn’t rot. At least these magnificent trees have been saved for future generations to be in awe in these lovely woods.

With Steen & Kristi

Tiny hikers, huge trees!

Kristi and massive redwood.

Cool weather for 2+ mile hike.

"Family" supports burned tree