You don’t need a wine glass in hand to fall in love with Napa Valley. Sometimes, a quiet trail and a vineyard view are all it takes. Enter the Napa Valley Vine Trail, a work-in-progress biking and walking path that will soon stretch from the Vallejo Ferry to the edge of Calistoga. Designed to connect the entire valley both physically and culturally, this free-access, pet- and family-friendly trail has quickly become a favorite for both locals and travelers.
If you’re staying at one of our Calistoga bed and breakfasts, you’re already perfectly positioned to enjoy the northern gateway of this incredible route. Whether you’re looking for a new way to explore wine country or just want to soak in the scenery, the Vine Trail lets you experience Napa at a slower, more personal pace.
What Is the Napa Valley Vine Trail?
The Napa Valley Vine Trail is a grassroots initiative powered by the Napa Valley Vine Trail Coalition, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting outdoor recreation, local connectivity, and environmental sustainability. Once completed, the paved, car-free trail will span 47 miles, passing through ten towns and viticultural areas (AVAs), including Calistoga, St. Helena, Oakville, Yountville, and Napa.
The route winds through vineyards, alongside streams, and past iconic landmarks, bringing the charm of wine country into full view without ever needing a car. Sections of the trail are already open and accessible, with more currently under construction (including the stretch between Yountville and St. Helena).
Exploring the Calistoga Section
The Calistoga stretch of the Vine Trail offers a scenic, approachable path that runs from the Oat Hill Mine Trailhead, just minutes from our front door, and winds through open landscapes with views of Mount St. Helena. It’s especially perfect for those seeking a peaceful, car-free place to stretch their legs or snap photos of wildflowers and vineyard vistas.
This section is part of a future connection to St. Helena, and while the fully paved link is still under construction, you can explore the surrounding area by foot or wheel and enjoy the serenity this quieter stretch provides. It’s also a great access point for linking up with the best Napa Valley hiking trails.
Community and Creativity Along the Way
More than just a recreational trail, the Vine Trail was created to connect people physically, artistically, and culturally. Art installations, mural projects, and wayfinding signs appear throughout different segments of the trail. You’ll find local history, educational tidbits, and public art that celebrates the unique character of each Napa Valley town, from Calistoga’s small-town charm to Napa’s vibrant food scene.
Walking and Wildlife Watching
Biking the Vine Trail: A Cyclist’s Dream Through Wine Country
If you’ve ever dreamed of pedaling past vineyards with the sun on your back and zero traffic in sight, the Napa Valley Vine Trail is your ride. Even in its current form, the trail offers some of the most scenic, cyclist-friendly miles in California, and Calistoga is a perfect launch point.
The opened portion of the Calistoga to St. Helena segment is especially popular for its gentle grade and postcard-worthy scenery. It’s an 8.2-mile ride one way, weaving past rows of vines, family-owned wineries, and the dramatic silhouette of Mount St. Helena. You’ll pass tucked-away tasting rooms and views you’ll want to frame, all without ever needing to leave the trail.
For those without wheels of their own, Calistoga Bikeshop has you covered with rentals for the whole family and even electric options for riders who want a little help on the hills or plan to go farther afield. Looking for a full-day adventure? Pair your ride with wine tastings, lunch stops, or even a detour into one of Napa’s many side roads, where the terrain gets more challenging, but the views get even better.
Where to Stop and Explore
The experiences along the way are just as meaningful as the trail itself. Wineries, cafés, and artisan shops line the path, especially near Calistoga, where a laid-back vibe and rich local character make every stop worthwhile. Grab lunch from a café, sip wine with a vineyard view, or stop by a market for local goods to enjoy at a nearby bench or picnic table.
The Napa Valley Wine Trail runs directly through Calistoga Depot, a former train depot reimagined into a unique meeting place with four restaurants, four bars featuring small-batch spirits and fine wines, live music, and photo-worthy scenery all inspired by the rich history of Calistoga. It’s a great place to grab a drink, share a snack, or soak in the lively atmosphere before heading back out on the trail.
Other must-see stops include local bakeries and tasting rooms along Lincoln Avenue, just a short stroll from the trail, and scenic viewpoints offering stunning looks at the Palisades ridge and nearby vineyards.
Things to Know About the Napa Valley Wine Trail
The trail is completely free to use and open year-round. It’s classified as a Class I trail, which means it’s entirely separate from car traffic, making it especially safe for families with kids or anyone seeking a peaceful outing. Dogs are welcome, too. Just be sure to bring a leash and clean up as needed.
There’s plenty of free parking near the trailhead in Calistoga, and if you’re staying at Craftsman Inn or Wine Way Inn, you’re just a short walk or ride from connecting with it. Don’t forget your water bottle and sun protection; the sun can sneak up on you, even in cooler seasons.
Back to Base: Unwind at Your Calistoga Bed and Breakfast
As always, our guests are in the perfect position to enjoy it all. After a day on the trail, there’s nothing better than returning to your room, taking off your helmet, and relaxing with a glass of wine in hand. Our Calistoga bed and breakfasts offer the kind of comfort and hospitality that perfectly complements a day of biking through the vineyards.
You can park your bike, kick off your shoes, and toast to the kind of day that blends fresh air, fine wine, and unforgettable views.
Why the Vine Trail Matters
The Napa Valley Vine Trail isn’t just another walking path. It’s a community project that connects people to the land and each other. It promotes sustainability, health, and accessibility, opening up new ways to experience one of the most beautiful wine regions in the world. It’s a slower, more thoughtful way to travel, one that’s perfect for Napa Valley and especially perfect for Calistoga.
Whether you’re here for the wine, the wellness, or just a scenic ride, the Vine Trail offers something special: a chance to see Napa on your own terms. So book your stay, grab your bike, your walking shoes, or even your dog, and come discover Napa Valley in motion.