Top 5 Hikes in Napa Valley
Skyline Park
Skyline Park. Located only a few miles from the Inn on Randolph, Skyline Park is the most diverse of the south Napa trails. More than 850 acres and 25 miles of terrain provide guests a bit of everything from hiking, biking to horseback riding. And a variety of trails means anyone, from novice hikers to advanced trekkers, can find their perfect path. Trails meander through the shade of trees and open onto vistas of the valley. One of our favorites is The Ridge Trail. With fabulous views across the bay to Mount Tamalpais, it’s well worth the effort. Or, try the beautiful and shaded two-mile hike to Lake Marie. The wildfires in October 2017 did burn through a large portion of the trails, but time is beginning to allow more acreage to be open to the public. Please be sure to check their website before visiting.
Westwood Hills
Westwood Hills. Westwood Hills Park, located about a two miles from the Inn on Randolph, is the perfect hike for those short on time or those who want some steep hills to get the heart beating without giving up too much wine tasting time. On the way up to the Mount Veeder Appellation, this three-mile park has a variety of trails, from steep rugged terrain to open meadows and dense forests. The park also boasts some great views of Napa and idyllic picnic spots – perhaps the best of which is under the canopy of an oak tree with a sweeping hillside view. Starting at the parking lot on a paved road, a gentle ascent takes you through a scenic eucalyptus forest. With a handful of fireroads and footpaths, it’s fairly easy to stay oriented, but a self-guided tour pamphlet under glass at the trailhead can help you find your way.
Alston Park
Alston Park. Located about five miles from the Inn on Randolph, Alston Park covers 157 acres in the unobstructed rolling hills of northwest Napa. The park offers three miles of meandering trails where you’ll find hikers, equestrians, mountain bikers and dog walkers enjoying sweeping, wide-open views of Napa Valley. The trails take you by old plum trees that are adorned with cottony white flowers in the winter, vineyards that hang heavy with grapes in early autumn and springtime wildflowers. The hiking is not overly strenuous and perfect for guests who want a little exercise, but also don’t want to overdo it while on vacation. If you love dogs, this is the place to be as many locals bring their canine buddies with them to Alston. Pro Tip: If you hike early in the morning and the weather is clear you will have an opportunity to take in the awe-inspiring sight of a mass of hot-air balloons beginning their ascent over the valley!
Bothe State Park
Bothe State Park. Located outside of Saint Helena and about thirty miles from the Inn on Randolph, Bothe State Park boasts almost 10 miles comprised of 12 different loops and a variety of terrain. The most popular trail is Coyote Peak which climbs 1.5 miles to the 1,170 foot peak for beautiful views of Mount Saint Helena. The park ranges in elevation from 300 to 2,000 feet above sea level and has stunning coast redwoods in the north slopes and canyons. Plenty of shady hiking areas make this park ideal for a hot sunny day. With fifty picnic tables, BBQ stoves and water faucets, Bothe also offers plenty of opportunity to stop and indulge in your favorite gourmet finds from Napa’s markets. Pro tip: It’s pronounced “boh-tuh,” in case you were wondering.
Robert Louis Stevenson State Park
The famed author, Robert Louis Stevenson, celebrated his honeymoon at this location in 1880. Featuring stunning views of the entire San Francisco Bay Area, this 5-mile hike to the top of Mt. St. Helena (10 miles round-trip) is worth every bit of effort. On a good day, you can see views of the Golden Gate Bridge on one side and Mt. Shasta on the other. It is absolutely breathtaking. The trailhead is roughly 35 miles from the Inn or approximately 45-60 minutes by car, so we recommend making a morning out of the hike. Pro tip: pack a lot of water, as the incline can get your heart racing!