Best Hiking in Napa Valley

California is known for its natural beauty as well as its wine. Hiking is a great way to kick off the day before wine tasting, or to relax between more robust days of tasting.

Here’s a roundup of some great hikes around the Napa Valley to consider on your next trip:

Skyline Regional Park

Located 10 quick minutes from Downtown Napa, Skyline offers one of Napa’s most beautiful and convenient hikes.

Take the 2.5 uphill hike to Lake Marie and relax at picnic tables by the lake or do the 2.5 mile Buckeye Trail Loop. Both offer beautiful view sweeping view of Napa. While there are up hills, they aren’t “too steep” by California standards. Parking is plentiful and entrance is around $7.

Skyline Regional Park, view after hiking 10 minutes

Rector Reservoir Wildlife Area

Just a few minutes from Yountville on The Silverado Trail, The Rector Reservoir Wildlife Area offers sweeping views of Napa Valley within a 15-20 minute very steep climb.

After the initial rigorous climb, the hike is a pretty tame amble along the ridgeline with great views into the valley on one side and over into Rector Creek Resevoir and the rocky, rolling mountains of the hills of Napa on the other side of the ridge.

There are plenty of outcrops of rocks to sit on and just soak up the view.

View from the Rector Creek Resevoir Trail

Above the world in the Stag’s Leap District

Table Rock Hike - Calistoga
The northern end of Napa Valley is highly volcanic. Nothing showcases the dramatic rocks and sweeping views as well as a hike at Table Rock. Within 2.5 miles of easy to moderate hiking, you can enjoy stunning views and walk a couple of labyrinths which locals have constructed out of the volcanic stones which are plentiful around the area.

On weekends parking is a significant issue, so go early. Also, because this is a Calistoga hike on the East side of the Valley, it is best done on cooler days or early mornings as temperatures can get pretty toasty.

View from Table Rock

Labyrinths abound just after the view at Table Rock. Meditate and appreciate this volcanic wonder.

Disclaimer: Check with your doctor as needed to see if these hikes are appropriate for you. I recommend keeping hiking and Napa drinking endeavors fairly separate. Many of these hikes showcase the views of Napa, which also involve altitude. Be careful, have fun, and enjoy the natural beauty of Napa however is best for you.