7 Napa Hiking Trails You Need to Explore

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. Download our free Vacation Guide for suggestions on delicious restaurants where you can stop for a delicious bite on your way back to Churchill Manor.

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 the 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. Stevenson Memorial Trail

This is a gorgeous 5-mile hike through Robert Louis Stevenson State Park taking you to the peak of Mount St. Helena. You’ll have the option of different routes to pass over the rugged trek to the top where you’ll have a beautiful 360-degree view of the area, including the San Francisco Bay and the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

2. Mt. George Waterfall Hike

During this hike, you can experience a beautiful waterfall, wildflowers in bloom, as well as a silver mine! Be sure to pack water and wear proper shoes. This is a strenuous hike!’

3. Oat Hill Mine Trail – Table Rock – Palisades

This moderate hike starts at the edge of Calistoga and climbs 4.8 miles through a historically geological area giving you sweeping views of the Valley, Palisades, and Sugarloaf Mountain.

4. Bale Grist Mill

The water-powered grist mill, built in 1846, was once the center of Napa Valley social life among its settlers as it was where everyone got their flour. This is a quick, easy hike through some of the area’s history.

5. Bothe-Napa Valley State Park

This is a serene spot within Napa Valley boasting 8.5 miles of hiking trails. You can also explore its evergreen forests on horseback.

6. Lake Berryessa

This beautiful lake located 32 miles from Downtown Napa is riddled with trails of varying lengths and difficulties. You won’t be disappointed after a day at the lake. If you’re up for going a little more “off-road,” the fall along Zim Zim Creek takes you to the aptly named Zim Zim Falls in Napa. The hike to the falls is about 7-8 miles round-trip and involves crossing several creeks. Lake Berryessa also offers fantastic fishing!

7. Alston Park

This is an easy 2-mile, multi-use trail that is dog-friendly. It’s a great wide open space to bring the kids and let them run around.

Expert Tip

What does being out in the wide open spaces mean to your body and mind? Let’s get technical for a moment. Studies show that walking for even just 25 minutes in a greenspace will decrease frustration and stress and it will increase your mood and creativity! These are just a few of many reasons you should hit a few scenic hiking trails in Napa during your next visit. 

Day Trip from San Francisco to Napa

If you live in the San Francisco Bay area, you can be in Napa in about an hour (depending on where you live and traffic). This proximity makes a day-trip possible, but a weekend getaway even more exciting. Your visit to Napa Valley can mean more than discovering world-class wineries. 

Our historic bed and breakfast is located in the heart of the city of Napa, which means you can easily access any of these incredible hiking trails, as well as dining, shopping, and more.

Find the Best Lodging Near Napa Hiking Trails

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll find plenty of adventure on our Napa hiking trails. After a fun day exploring trails and splashing around in the creeks, come back to Churchill Manor where you can relax and enjoy a little pampering before your next outing.

Enjoy a delicious gourmet breakfast each morning, plenty of privacy, and the finest lodging near all of the area’s best attractions. Plus, our location makes it easy for you to walk into the heart of downtown Napa or make a short drive to some of the best wineries in the world. 

Browse all of our luxurious rooms and reserve your favorite. Then start planning an incredible trip to Napa that will satisfy all of your senses!