Most historic places I write about are manmade, created by human efforts. Muir Woods is a different kind of place, a natural wonder, preserved, but not created, by people.
Many of the majestic trees in this old growth redwood forest are over 600 years old, surviving floods, fires, and the logging booms of the 19th century. People have lived among these ancient trees for thousands of years. For centuries, California natives, such as the Coast Miwok, managed the land they called home. European settlers drove the natives out or enslaved them, and cut many of the redwood forests down for forts, houses, stores, and other buildings. The canyon along Redwood Creek escaped such demolition only because the owners had protected it.
Elizabeth and William Kent donated their holdings to the public in 1908. That same year, the area was designated a national monument, and named for John Muir. Muir was renowned for his writings about both the beauty of and the need for old growth forests. He led efforts to preserve Yosemite Valley and Sequoia National Park.
Though few remain, coast redwoods are the tallest living trees on the planet. They can grow to be over 375 feet tall. In Muir Woods, the tallest tree reaches over 250 feet. (That compares to a 23 story skyscraper.) Though not the oldest type of tree, redwoods can live for thousands of years.
A hike among the trees in Muir Woods is humbling and inspiring. A soft layer of needles underfoot deadens the sound of footfalls, and the grounds around the trees are carpeted with ferns and redwood sorrel.
The rich scent of conifers brings back childhood memories of picnicking inside a huge redwood hollowed out by fire. My eyes are constantly drawn upwards, reaching to the heavens. The light filtering through the crowns feels like a blessing.
Though redwoods can survive low intensity fires, extremely hot fires that stem from years of fire suppression, can kill the trees. Climate change is also affecting the trees, as they need moisture from the coastal fogs. We didn’t create this ancient beauty, but I sincerely hope we continue to value and preserve it.
BRIC-A-BRAC 