To protect the redwoods the Kents donated the land to the United States Federal Government and, in 1908, President Theodore Roosevelt declared it a national monument. Roosevelt suggested naming the area after Kent, but Kent wanted it named for conservationist John Muir. The Muir Beach Overlook provides a dramatic view of the California coastline. The sandy beach stretches beneath steep hills rising to Mount Tamalpais with vistas out to sea. Swimming is advised only from late May to mid-September when lifeguards are on duty.
Most trails are long and many are steep, ascending to ridgetops for ocean views.