Morning: Begin at the trailhead for Swinging Bridge Trail, a 2.5‑mile round‑trip hike that takes roughly 1 hour to complete. The trail offers views of the river and a historic swinging bridge that spans the water, perfect for photo ops. Continue on to the South Fork Merced River where a gentle 1.5‑mile walk along the riverbank (about 45 minutes) allows you to soak in the serene landscape.
Afternoon: After a quick snack, set out on the Chilualna Falls Trail, a 4‑mile round‑trip trek that takes around 2 hours. The path meanders through forested sections and culminates at the breathtaking Chilualna Falls, a perfect spot for a picnic and some waterfall photography.
Evening: Return to Muir Woods Campground for a relaxed evening. Set up camp, enjoy a campfire dinner, and unwind under the stars, reflecting on the day’s hikes. The campground provides basic amenities and a peaceful night in nature.
Find HotelsIf you have extra time, add an extra hour to explore the surrounding forest trails for more wildlife spotting. To shorten the trip, skip the South Fork River walk and head straight to Chilualna Falls after the Swinging Bridge, reducing the day by about an hour.