Napa Valley’s dry Mediterranean climate makes it a wonderful place to visit and enjoy outdoor activities year-round. Hiking is a favorite activity for many of our visitors and St. Helena and surrounding areas do not disappoint. You can pack a picnic can hike to the top of Mount St. Helena for a picture perfect view of the valley, or spend just an hour or so stretching your legs on a beautiful tree-lined trail before engaging in other Wine Country activities. Here is a look at a few of the best St. Helena hiking trails as well as a few additional trails within a short driving distance of Wine Country Inn.

Best St. Helena Hiking Trails

Bale Grist Mill State Park

A visit to Bale Grist Mill State Park will not only give the opportunity to enjoy a brisk but short hike, it will also give you a glimpse into California’s history. Located just 3 miles north of St. Helena, the park has a two-mile round trip trail that connects to the neighboring Bothe State Park as well as a fully restored water-powered grist mill that still grinds grain. Be sure to make time to explore the mill and check the calendar for special events such as the annual Harvest Dinner and Old Mill Days.

Moore Creek Park

Featuring a year-round creek and nearly 15 miles of trails, Moore Creek Park was recently added to the Napa County Park and Open Space District and has quickly become a popular hiking destination for locals and visitors alike. One of the most popular hikes in the park is the Lake Hennessey Shoreline Trail, which follows the contours of the lake for fantastic views of the shoreline, lake and wildlife.

Other Great Napa Hikes

Bothe State Park

Wine Country Inn is just minutes from the Bothe Napa Valley State Park in Calistoga, CA, which offers six well-maintained trails, several of which are shaded and cooled by the year-round creek. The park also boasts the farthest inland coast redwood trees in any of California’s state parks. Each trail delves deep into the western hills of Napa Valley and range from a beautiful short stroll to a more challenging 6-mile hike. Take advantage of the picnic areas and the guided hikes Saturdays from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

Robert Louis Stevenson State Park

For some nature fun including hiking, biking, and wildlife observation visit the Robert Louis Stevenson State Park. Hike the five miles to the top of Mt. St. Helena and take in the views of the San Francisco Bay Area. Spend the day enjoying the California weather and visit one the best state parks available.

Napa Valley Vine Trail

The Napa Valley Vine Trail will one day span 47 miles and connect Vallejo to Calistoga with pedestrian, pet-and bike-friendly trails. Sections of the trail are currently open, but there is still a lot of work to be done as the Napa Valley Vine Trail Coalition continues to seek land, funds and support for this grassroots project. Visit the website for a current map of the trails that can currently be used, which include sections in Calistoga, Yountville and Napa.

Start Planning Your Trip

Napa Valley Hiking is a great way to see and appreciate the region as well as to get a little exercise. The trails we mentioned above are all within a short driving distance of Wine Country Inn, a luxurious home-away-from-home during your trip Napa Valley.