11 Forest Fitness Trails That Double as Therapy

2. Muir Woods — Marin County, CA

Muir Woods offers an approachable old-growth redwood experience close to the Bay Area, making it ideal for weekday escapes and short therapeutic hikes. The well-maintained boardwalk and compact loops let visitors move slowly without worrying about navigation, which is useful when the goal is mental restoration rather than mileage. The sheer scale of the redwoods and the filtered, cool light under the canopy create a sense of shelter and calm that many people describe as soothing. For a short therapy-oriented outing, choose a quiet early-morning slot and walk at a relaxed pace, pausing to touch bark or sit in a fern-lined hollow. The park’s proximity to urban areas makes it a practical choice for regular forest fitness sessions. Pay attention to parking and reservation needs, which vary seasonally. Accessibility is better than many old-growth groves, but some sections still include steps and uneven surfaces. If you’re practicing mindful walking, set a gentle timer to alternate five minutes of focused walking with two minutes of seated breathing.