The Dipsea trail does not go through the Muir Woods visitors center. The trail begins at Old Mill Park in downtown Mill Valley and it does cross the annex parking lot and will eventually end at Stinson Beach. Hikers who who start at Old Mill Park and are NOT deviating from the Dipsea Trail DO NOT need park entrance fees.
Visitors who wish to park in the Muir Woods lot and pick up the trail from there must have parking reservations but do not need to purchase park entrance.