The Ultimate Brown Bag Wine Party
July 22, 2020
Backyard Decor Napa Style
August 10, 2020
Hiking Napa Valley
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Napa Valley is synonymous with wine. In fact, it’s hard to think of one without the other. But there’s another side to Napa Valley that all guests should make time to experience: hiking! This simple activity is breathtaking in more ways than one. Plus, when you explore Napa hiking trails, you challenge and reward yourself at the same time. Find out our favorite trails so you can experience this gorgeous valley like never before.
Your outdoor adventures on Napa hiking trails are sure to work up an appetite. We suggest you pack a lunch and of course this includes some amazing wines. Check below for our amazing picnic supplies, baskets, wine, and more.
Why Is Napa So Popular for Hiking
Napa Valley is surrounded by gorgeous coastal mountains covered in eucalyptus and redwood trees. North of the Valley lies the Mayacamas Mountains, home to Mount Saint Helena, the Bay Area’s second tallest peak after Mount Hamilton. While many people come for the famed wine tasting trips, trains, and soirees, another great activity, maybe between vineyard days, is to explore one of the many Napa hiking trails and get to know this beautiful countryside.
A Little Napa Valley History
Napa County was on the original California counties established in 1850 at the time of statehood. Because it was such fertile land, many farmers settled here, making it one of the populous regions of the state. While the Valley used to produce many varieties of crops, it is mostly covered in vineyards now. Because of its cooler weather Valley vintners favor varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay. The vineyards also make for a unique landscape, which you will certainly enjoy on one of these Napa hiking trails.
#1 Lake Marie via Skyline Trail
Lake Marie via Skyline Trail is a 6.4 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Napa, California that features beautiful wildflowers and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking, running, horses, and mountain biking and is accessible year-round. Horses are also able to use this trail.
A great half-day hike, rivaling Mount Saint Helena for enjoyment and views. Experience oak forest and open grasslands. There is a $5 parking fee.
Length 6.2 miles
Elevation Gain 1,292 ft.
Route Type: Loop
Difficulty: Moderate
#2 Westwood Hills Trail
Westwood Hills Trail is a 2.3 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Napa, California that offers the chance to see wildlife and is rated as moderate. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
Length 2.3 miles
Elevation Gain 583 ft.
Route Type: Loop
Difficulty: Moderate
#3 Smittle Creek Trail
Smittle Creek Trail is a 5.7 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Napa, California that features a lake and is rated as moderate. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
Length 5.7 miles
Elevation Gain 419 ft.
Route Type: Out & Back
Difficulty: Moderate
#4 Napa River & Bay Trail
Napa River and Bay Trail is a 5.7 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Napa, California that features a lake and is good for all skill levels. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
Length 5.7 miles
Elevation Gain 45 ft.
Route Type: loop
Difficulty: Easy
#5 River To Ridge
River to Ridge Trail is a 3.4 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Napa, California that features beautiful wildflowers and is good for all skill levels. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. Horses are also able to use this trail.
This trail is great for those days you don't want to hike up a steep elevation but just want to get outdoors. It is a popular location for beginner mountain bikers The trail is well maintained and has a lot of shade. The trail is pretty narrow and you'll have to move to the side to let mountain bikers pass. At the end of the trail is Skyline Wilderness.
The gate at hwy 221 opens at 8:00 AM and will close 2 hours prior to the main gate closing time. Park extended hours are 8:00 AM till 7:00 PM. (summer) The River to Ridge gate will close at 5:00 PM Park normal hours are 8:00 AM till 5:00 PM (winter). The River to Ridge gate will close at 3:00 PM.
Length 3.4 miles
Elevation Gain 387 ft.
Route Type: Out & Back
Difficulty: Easy
Hiking Essentials
Whether you’re casually hiking to a favorite vine trail or taking on one of the harder courses and climbing a couple of thousand feet up. Carrying the proper equipment is absolutely critical. When things go wrong, as they often do, this can mean the difference between a minor inconvenience and a dire result. For first-timers and experienced hikers alike, dialing in essential day hiking gear is an important part of any pre-trip preparations. Don't worry we have you covered with an awesome list of must haves when planning even a simple hike in the Valley.
| Hiking | Essentials |
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#6 Timberhill Park Trail
Timberhill Park Trail is a 1.5 mile lightly trafficked out and back trail located near Napa, California that features beautiful wildflowers and is rated as moderate. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail.
Note: Please be mindful of the private property signs. The trail ends at the private property signs and it is very important you stop and DO NOT go any further.
The modest Timberhill Park encompasses the right-of-way along an old abandoned road. The trail climbs through a short canyon before crossing bald slopes to the top of a hill where great views unfold.
Length 1.5 miles
Elevation Gain 344 ft.
Route Type: Out & Back
Difficulty: Moderate
#7 Rector Reservoir Wildlife Area
Rector Reservoir Wildlife Area is a 3.4 mile lightly trafficked out and back trail located near Napa, California that features beautiful wild flowers and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, nature trips, and birding and is accessible year-round.
Length 3.4 miles
Elevation Gain 1,131 ft.
Route Type: Out & Back
Difficulty: Moderate
#8 Brushy Peaks Trail via Vista Trail
Brushy Peaks Trail via Vista Trail is a 7.6 mile lightly trafficked loop trail located near Napa, California that features beautiful wild flowers. The trail is rated as moderate and is primarily used for hiking, walking, and running.
Length 7.6 miles
Elevation Gain 1,660 ft.
Route Type: Loop
Difficulty: Moderate
#9 Skyline Trail, Thatcher's Rim Rock Trail, and Lake Marie Road Loop
Skyline Trail, Thatcher's Rim Rock Trail, and Lake Marie Road Loop is a 7 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Napa, California that features a lake and is rated as difficult. The trail is primarily used for hiking and trail running and is accessible year-round.
Skyline Wilderness Park is located in the hills immediately east of the town of Napa and rewards hikers with great terrain from oak forest and grassland to lakes and mountain tops. Winemakers know that Napa Valley is a great place to be all year round, hence it's possible to find great hiking conditions here on virtually any month of the year. $5 day use fee
Length 7.0 miles
Elevation Gain 1,929 ft.
Route Type: Loop
Difficulty: Hard
#10 Alston Park Loop Trail
Alston Park Loop Trail is a 2.7 mile moderately trafficked loop trail located near Napa, California that features beautiful wild flowers and is good for all skill levels. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
Length 2.7 miles
Elevation Gain 236 ft.
Route Type: Loop
Difficulty: Easy
Hiking Essentials
Whether you’re casually hiking to a favorite vine trail or taking on one of the harder courses and climbing a couple of thousand feet up. Carrying the proper equipment is absolutely critical. When things go wrong, as they often do, this can mean the difference between a minor inconvenience and a dire result. For first-timers and experienced hikers alike, dialing in essential day hiking gear is an important part of any pre-trip preparations. Don't worry we have you covered with an awesome list of must haves when planning even a simple hike in the Valley.
| Hiking | Essentials |
|---|---|