The Historic Home of John Muir

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  Learn more about John Muir

  Frequently Asked Questions

  Here you can access the answers to the most frequently asked questions about John Muir

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  Mount Wanda

  Hiking and Outdoor Activities

  Enjoy a hike on Mount Wanda, a part of the John Muir National Historic Site. Explore other outdoor activities.

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  Use the NPS app or Call in.

  Cell Phone Tour of the Main Grounds

  Enjoy two ways to experience the cell phone audio tour of the main park grounds.

 

The Strentzel/Muir home contains four floors (three can be explored) and is over 10,000 square feet.

NPS Photo/Luther Bailey

Exploring the Strentzel/Muir House

Experience: Historical, Cultural, and Natural

Visit the Strentzel/Muir home, built in 1882 by Dr. John Strentzel, John Muir's father-in-law. When Dr. Strentzel passed away in 1890, Mrs. Strentzel invited the Muir family to move into the "big house" with her. This became John Muir's home for the last 24 years of his life.

The home is a 17-room, late Victorian (Italianate style) wood-frame mansion situated on a knoll with a commanding view of Alhambra Valley. This two-story structure features a full basement and attic, a cupola on the roof peak, 12-foot high ceilings, and over 10,000 square feet of floor space. Designed by architects Wolfe and Son and built by contractors Sylvester and Langabee of San Francisco, the house is a remarkable piece of architectural history.

Learn more about this historic house during your visit, or explore our "Places" page for detailed information about the structure and layout of each floor.

Tips for Exploring the Strentzel/Muir House

• The house is a short walk from the visitor center, but up a small hill. Staff can provide a cart ride if you need assistance.
• Opened food or drinks are not allowed in the house.
• For safety and preservation reasons, please refrain from touching historic items or moving beyond barriers.
• Photos are allowed, but please be mindful of other guests.
• Feel free to ask questions of the staff, who are usually situated at the inside entrance.