Rolling vineyards and world-class wines may define Napa Valley, but there’s a wilder side waiting to be explored. Towering redwoods, rugged peaks, and winding trails weave through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in California. With trails that range from peaceful strolls alongside ancient trees to summit climbs with sweeping views stretching for miles, you’ll uncover another layer of Napa Valley’s beauty with every step. Each hike offers a different kind of escape than what you might be used to hearing about. One filled with crisp mountain air, shaded forest paths, and moments of solitude far from the tasting rooms.
After a day of adventure, our Napa Valley Lodging provides the perfect place to unwind, offering cozy, welcoming stays that complement the valley’s natural wonders.
Ready to lace up your boots and hit the trails? Let’s explore some of the best hiking trails in California, right here in Napa Valley.
Robert Louis Stevenson State Park: Napa Valley’s Best Views
Named after the famed author who honeymooned in the area, Robert Louis Stevenson State Park is home to some of the most rewarding hikes in Napa Valley.
Mount Saint Helena Trail
The Mount Saint Helena Trail is a 5-mile ascent to the highest point in Napa Valley, offering unparalleled views that stretch as far as the San Francisco Bay on clear days. The trail winds through shady forest switchbacks before giving way to rocky ridges that open up to the sky. The higher you go, the more breathtaking the scenery becomes.
Oat Hill Mine Trail
History and nature intertwine on the Oat Hill Mine Trail. This historic trail follows an old wagon road that once led to a mercury mine in the late 1800s. Along the way, you’ll pass rugged volcanic rock formations, sweeping views of Calistoga and Napa Valley, and even remnants of the region’s mining past. The full trail stretches 8.3 miles one way, making it perfect for a long day hike or a shorter out-and-back adventure.
Table Rock Trail
Tucked between towering rock formations and dense woodlands, Table Rock Trail is a 4.4-mile route that offers a little bit of everything from expansive views, shaded forest paths, and striking volcanic outcrops that seem sculpted by time. The terrain varies just enough to keep things interesting without being overwhelming, making it a perfect choice for hikers who want something moderate yet rewarding.
Along the way, keep an eye out for a hidden gem, a meditative stone labyrinth nestled near the trail. Created by hikers or locals, this simple yet profound arrangement of stones invites you to pause and reflect. Walking its winding path is a calming experience, offering a moment of mindfulness amidst the natural beauty of Napa Valley.
After your hike, bring a picnic to enjoy at Table Rock’s flat volcanic summit, where panoramic views of the valley await. Then, head back to town for a well-earned glass of wine, capping off a day of adventure, reflection, and relaxation.
Palisades Trail
If you’re looking for a hike that feels like an adventure, the Palisades Trail delivers in every way. This challenging 10-12 mile trek takes you through rugged volcanic rock formations, steep cliffs, and open ridgelines with panoramic views that stretch across Napa Valley. It’s one of the most demanding hikes in Calistoga, with rocky terrain and significant elevation gain, but the sense of seclusion and untouched beauty makes it a truly rewarding experience.
Most hikers begin at the Table Rock Trailhead (near Robert Louis Stevenson State Park) and follow the route through Table Rock, the Palisades, and then descend via Oat Hill Mine Trail into Calistoga. This point-to-point hike is the recommended approach since the terrain is too strenuous for most to hike out and back. If you plan on tackling the full route, arranging a shuttle or car drop-off is a good idea.
For those wanting a shorter but still scenic hike, you can explore Table Rock Trail as an out-and-back option without committing to the full Palisades traverse. However, for the full experience of Calistoga’s wild, volcanic landscapes, completing the route to Oat Hill Mine Trail is the ultimate way to take in the area’s best scenery.
Linda Falls Trail: A Hidden Gem
In the hills of Napa Valley, the Linda Falls Trail offers a short but rewarding hike that leads to one of the area’s prettiest waterfalls. The shaded path, surrounded by thick trees and lush greenery, feels like a secret retreat where you can slow down and enjoy the quiet beauty of the landscape. It’s an easy trail, making it a great option for a relaxing morning or afternoon stroll.
Linda Falls is most impressive in the winter and early spring, when seasonal rains fill the cascade and create a dramatic, rushing waterfall. By late summer and fall, the flow can be significantly lighter, but the trail remains a peaceful, scenic escape year-round.
The Petrified Forest: A Walk Through Ancient History
For a truly unique hiking experience in Napa Valley, head to The Petrified Forest, a privately owned park that requires paid entry. This remarkable site is home to some of the oldest petrified redwood trees in the world, preserved for millions of years by ancient volcanic activity.
The well-maintained, easy trails make it accessible for hikers of all levels, offering a fascinating journey through time. Along the way, informative signs explain the science behind petrification and the volcanic history that shaped the region. A must-visit for geology enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone looking for a one-of-a-kind nature walk!
Bothe-Napa Valley State Park: A Hiker’s Paradise
Nestled in the heart of Napa Valley, Bothe-Napa Valley State Park offers some of the most scenic and diverse hiking trails in the region. With lush redwood groves, peaceful creeks, and historic landmarks, the park provides something for every type of hiker. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely nature walk or a more challenging backcountry trek, Bothe’s network of trails showcases the natural beauty and rich history of the area. Here are a few of our favorites:
Ritchey Canyon Trail – Tranquil Creekside hike with lush greenery
Ritchey Canyon Trail winds alongside Ritchey Creek, where the soft gurgling of the stream provides a natural soundtrack to your hike. Towering oaks and lush ferns create a canopy overhead, filtering sunlight and casting dappled shadows on the ground. Keep an eye (or ear) out for one of the six kinds of woodpecker that inhabit the park. The further you venture, the more secluded it feels, making it a perfect spot for quiet reflection or a leisurely picnic beneath the trees.
Redwood Trail – Awe-inspiring journey through towering redwoods
Few experiences rival the awe of standing beneath towering redwoods, their ancient trunks stretching skyward in quiet majesty. Redwood Trail, nestled within Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, offers a breathtaking journey through a forest of coastal redwoods, some of the tallest trees in the world. You might even be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of a spotted owl perched high in the tree tops.
History Trail – Walk through Napa Valley’s past
If you want a bit of lesson on Calistoga history as you venture through the park, start your day on the History Trail. This short, scenic route takes you around the Pioneer Cemetery and past the historic Bale Grist Mill, a fascinating landmark that dates back to the 1840s. As you walk through the surrounding oak woodlands, imagine the early settlers who once relied on the mill to grind grain into flour. The mill, still operational today, offers weekend demonstrations where you can see the massive wooden gears and water-powered machinery in action.
From shaded creekside walks to ancient redwoods and fascinating historical sites, the trails of Bothe-Napa Valley State Park offer something for every outdoor enthusiast.
Plan Your Napa Valley Hiking Getaway
After a long day of hiking, there’s nothing better than sinking into a cozy room, sipping a glass of wine on the patio, and unwinding in the heart of Calistoga. Wine Way Inn and Craftsman Inn offer the perfect blend of comfort, charm, and convenience, with easy access to the region’s best trails and wineries.
From sunrises over Mount Saint Helena to forest-lined paths in Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, the beauty of Napa’s hiking trails is something every visitor should experience. If you’re ready to explore beyond the vineyards, start planning the ultimate Napa Valley hiking getaway.