01
Best close-to-town escape
Linda Falls Trail
Las Posadas State Forest • Shaded Waterfall Canyon • Quick Nature Fix
A short, wooded ramble to a tucked-away waterfall just minutes from central Angwin.
This low-key trail winds through oak and madrone forest before narrowing toward a rocky overlook of Linda Falls, especially pretty in winter and spring. It is an easy outing but has uneven footing near the end, so sturdy shoes are worth it. Parking is limited along the roadside, making early or off-peak visits the most relaxed.
02
Best half-day outing
Bothe-Napa Valley State Park
Between St. Helena And Calistoga • Redwood-Filled State Park • Family-Friendly Classic
A web of creekside and ridge trails lets you build anything from an easy stroll to a solid half-day hike under redwoods and oaks.
From Angwin, a short drive drops you into cooler air and tall trees along Ritchey Creek, where you can follow gentle paths or link steeper segments toward Coyote Peak. The park feels surprisingly quiet on weekdays, with enough trail options to dodge crowds even on busier weekends. Bring layers, as the shaded canyons can stay cool while ridges heat up fast.
03
Best historic route
Oat Hill Mine Trail
Above Calistoga • Historic Volcanic Ridge Trail • View-Packed Workout
A rocky old wagon road climbs out of Calistoga onto a ridge with sweeping views back over the upper Napa Valley.
Starting near Calistoga, this former stagecoach route wastes little time gaining elevation, rewarding you with wide valley vistas and strange volcanic rock formations. The surface is rough and can be brutally hot in summer, so early starts, sun protection, and plenty of water are essential. Turn around at one of the view pullouts for a shorter hike, or push farther along the ridge for a bigger day.
04
Best mellow mileage
Lake Hennessey Loop Trails
East Of St. Helena • Lakeside Oak Woodland Loop • Relaxed Scenic Wander
Rolling paths trace the shoreline and nearby hills around Lake Hennessey, offering open views and birdlife without big climbs.
These informal routes mix dirt roads and singletrack, weaving through grassland and oak stands above the water’s edge. It is a good choice when you want to stretch your legs for a few miles without committing to a steep ascent, especially in cooler months and on breezy afternoons. Watch for seasonal mud and share the space with anglers and paddlers using the lake access points.
05
Best challenge hike
Mount Saint Helena Trail
Robert Louis Stevenson State Park • Steep Summit Climb With Wide Views • Big-Day Adventure
A sustained climb to one of the region’s highest summits, with far-reaching views on clear days that can extend to the Sierra and the ocean.
The trail begins off Highway 29 and quickly settles into a steady uphill, first through forest and then on exposed switchbacks that wrap around the mountain. It is a straightforward route but long and often hot, so bring more water than you think you need and plan for several hours on trail. On top, radio towers share the summit, but the panorama over Napa, Sonoma, and distant ranges makes the effort feel well spent.