In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.

-John Muir

As a lover of nature and specifically the woods, visiting Muir Woods quickly made its way to the top of my list of things to do while in the San Francisco area. I have long admired John Muir’s love of nature and haven’t seen redwoods in years, so this was the perfect time to do so.

We hadn’t eaten prior to hiking, and we picked the longest trail. There were times when I wished people would be quieter–so I could hear only the swaying branches and birds fluttering their wings, insects buzzing, the possibility of seeing other animals living amongst the massive redwoods.

After walking one of the rounding paths, I looked up at the redwoods as they swayed gently, marveling at their beauty but more than anything, feeling peace.

The park closed and the sun set, and we climbed town from the top in darkness, carefully navigating the fallen redwoods and winding paths. Occasionally, we would hear voices from others who have stayed past closing time, but mostly we were alone. It was exciting and refreshing, and despite my grumbling stomach and hangriness, I was so pleased we made it to Muir Woods.