It’s true; most people imagine Napa Valley as the place one visits for spectacular wine, world-renowned cuisine, and posh resorts and spas. But the region is also well known for its invigorating outdoor activities and pristine natural scenery, all set against the backdrop of year-round, mild Mediterranean climate, offering an irresistible invitation for an outdoor adventure.
Though renowned for its beautiful wine country scenery, less than 10% of Napa County’s 789 square miles are planted in vine. Add to that the county’s relatively small population, and what remains are vast swathes of virtually untouched wilderness. This is wonderful for those who live in the region: the air is clean, the water pure, the scenery awe-inspiring, and there is much peace and quiet to be had. For those who come from outside the region to hike, the reward at the end of a nature-filled, challenging trek up a mountain will be one of the best meals ever eaten, accompanied by some of the best wine ever savored. And, unlike other regions one might hike, the accommodations and spa amenities in Napa Valley are luxurious, soothing, and rejuvenating, preparing mind and body to tackle yet another day’s adventure.
Parks are everywhere in Napa County – city, county, and state parks, and for those unfamiliar with the region, it can be a daunting task to figure out which are most appropriate for the skill and endurance level desired and worthy of carving out valuable vacation time to enjoy. If one is coming to Napa Valley to hike, it is best to do it right; choose hikes that offer especially memorable vistas and serenity and that provide an athletic challenge.
View from Table Rock- Robert Louis Stevenson State Park // Photo by Chris Andrews
The crown jewel of California State Parks in Napa County is, hands down, Robert Louis Stevenson State Park, located on Mount St. Helena, which, at 4342 feet, is the highest peak in the nine-county Bay Area. From the summit, there are views like no other in the region. Other peaks seen on a clear day include Snow Mountain, Mount Diablo, High Sierras, and Mount Tamalpais. The Pacific Ocean may also be visible, as will be the skyscrapers of downtown San Francisco –breathtaking scenery from every direction. There are 2000 feet of elevation gain on this 10+ mile round trip hike, so be prepared with proper hiking boots, ample food, and water, and plan on an at least five-hour excursion. The one-mile front end of this hike, known as the Stevenson Memorial Trail, passes through the area where author Robert Louis Stevenson honeymooned in 1880.
Another worthy hike that emanates from Robert Louis Stevenson State Park is the Table Rock to Palisades Spur. This challenging 6-mile, one-way hike is best done starting at the Table Rock trailhead off of Hwy. 29 so that the 3200-foot elevation change is done as a descent. The trail drops hikers off at the Lower Oat Hill Mine trailhead on the north end of Calistoga, and from there, a shuttle can be taken to get back to the parking area at Table Rock. Though challenging, this trail has exceptional views, with quaint spots to picnic along the way, and those visiting in the late spring and early summer can look forward to a plethora of wildflowers, thanks to this year’s significant amount of rainfall.
These trailheads are close to Calistoga, a great place for avid hikers to stay in the region. Soothe sore muscles in the town’s geyser-fed hot mineral baths, and enjoy the many other spa treatments for which Calistoga is renowned: volcanic steam rooms, mud baths, herbal and CBD massages, and much more.
Moore Creek Park hiking trail overlooking Lake Hennessey
For those looking for a somewhat less challenging hike that is still invigorating and includes views of lush vineyards and Lake Hennessey, consider the Valentine Vista Trail or the connecting Moore Creek Trail at Moore Creek Park. The 1,600 acres of park include Oak woodlands, Douglas Fir & Madrone forest, grasslands, and chaparral. There is plenty of opportunity to spot wildlife in the park, including large mammals such as black bears, mountain lions, bobcats, gray foxes, and coyotes. The trails on this unit offer beautiful views down the canyon and shaded walks along Moore Creek. Both trails are well-marked and groomed, though there is little shade in some stretches, so plan accordingly. Consider saving this excellent hike for months with more moderate temperatures. The Moore Creek Trail loop is 7.5 miles and takes approximately 3.5 hours to complete. This is a popular trail, so plan to arrive early to ensure access to parking and morning solitude.
Another favorite park for hiking is between St. Helena and Calistoga. Bothe-Napa Valley State Park has nearly 10 miles of hiking trails, and though the terrain is a bit rough, the hikes are considered moderate in difficulty. These trails feature forests on the north-facing slopes and brush on those south-facing, with redwoods growing near streams and creeks. Bothe is full of wildlife, and during the day, one can see pileated woodpeckers and many other species of birds. For maximum enjoyment, take the Ritchey Canyon Trail to the Redwood Trail, then follow the signs to Coyote Peak, which overlooks unadulterated views of pristine forest from above. This hike is an approximately 4.7-mile loop and takes a few hours to complete, perfect for a day that might also include wine tasting and shopping. Bothe has the best camping in Napa Valley with private cabins, yurts, tent and RV camping slots, a pool, showers, and other amenities.
Other worthy hikes that are especially popular with locals are those in Los Posadas State Forest, Skyline Wilderness Park, and the Wetlands Edge Park, which has particular appeal for birdwatchers. Los Posadas trailheads are located in Angwin on the top of Howell Mountain, an important and distinctive AVA within the Napa Valley AVA. Consider a post-hike wine tasting at one of Howell Mountain’s renowned wineries.
Best hikes in Los Posadas include the short, rewarding, 1.6-mile out-and-back hike to Linda Falls (waterfalls). One can enjoy beautiful scenery and shade along the way, an excellent hike for warmer days. The most popular hike in Angwin is the Los Posadas Fire Road Loop, a two-hour, 4.5-mile hike offering solitude and beautiful views from the mountain. Also popular is the Whoop-De-Doos Loop. This 3.6-mile hike takes approximately 1.5 hours to complete and includes moss-covered madrone forests and redwood groves.
Skyline Wilderness Park, located at the south end of the town of Napa, is one of the area’s most popular parks for its variety of activities and its excellent hiking trails. In addition to hiking, there is disc golfing, camping, archery, picnicking, the native habitat garden, and fishing. A favorite trail is the seven-mile Lake Marie Loop (moderate difficulty), which begins on the Manzanita Trail. Bring a picnic and enjoy it on the bank of the lake, a beautiful, serene setting. There are many connecting trails throughout the park, which invite a bit of adventure – grab a map at the park entrance, and don’t be afraid to explore a bit.
The Wetlands Edge Park, along the Napa River and Bay Trail, is easy, flat, and an amazing place to bird watch, with a protected habitat that attracts shorebirds, waterfowl, and numerous other wildlife species. The Wetlands are a great spot to walk after a long day of wine tasting, offering incredible sunset views. One will be in a good frame of mind for the evening’s gourmet dinner.
To explore some of Napa’s trails with a group and a guide, check out the Napa County Regional Park & Open Space District’s “3rd Saturday Hikes” schedule. These free hiking events allow attendees to discover the diversity of the beautiful and historic Napa County. For information and upcoming schedule, visit www.napaoutdoors.org/
parks/3rdsaturdayhikes/
For more information www.parks.ca.gov // www.alltrails.com // www.napaoutdoors.org/parks-trails/
