01
Best overall pick
Oat Hill Mine Trail
East Of Downtown Calistoga • Historic Volcanic Stagecoach Route • Signature Calistoga Hike
A rocky, view-packed trail that climbs quickly out of town onto an old stagecoach road with sweeping Napa Valley vistas.
Starting just above town, Oat Hill Mine delivers big scenery right away, with lava outcrops, wildflowers in spring, and long looks down the valley. You can turn around at the first viewpoints for a shorter outing or commit to a longer trek toward the remote Palisades. The footing is rocky in spots, so sturdy shoes and plenty of water make the day much more pleasant.
02
Best summit views
Mount St. Helena via Robert Louis Stevenson State Park
North Of Calistoga On Highway 29 • Steep Summit Trail Through Chaparral • Best For Peak-Baggers
A sustained climb to one of the highest points in the region, rewarding hikers with panoramic views that can reach all the way to the Bay on clear days.
From the trailhead at Robert Louis Stevenson State Park, the route winds through forest and chaparral before breaking out onto wide upper slopes. The grade is steady rather than technical, but the elevation gain adds up, making this a satisfying challenge for fit hikers. Start early on warm days and bring layers—wind and temperatures can shift quickly near the summit.
03
Best shady escape
Bothe-Napa Valley State Park
Between Calistoga And St. Helena • Leafy State Park With Creekside Trails • Best For Families And Picnics
A network of mellow trails through redwoods, oaks, and along a seasonal creek, ideal for low-key hikes and picnic days.
Bothe-Napa Valley State Park offers a cooler, quieter feel than the vineyards just beyond its boundaries, with trails like Ritchey Canyon and Coyote Peak giving you options from easy loops to moderate climbs. The shade and creek crossings make it especially appealing on hot afternoons or with kids in tow. Trail intersections are well signed, so it’s easy to tailor a route to your group’s energy level.
04
Most unique landscape
The Petrified Forest
West Of Calistoga Off Petrified Forest Road • Short Interpretive Loop Through Petrified Forest • Best For Geology Buffs
Easy walking paths wind past massive petrified redwood trunks and viewpoints that hint at the area’s volcanic past.
This privately operated preserve offers well-maintained trails and interpretive signs that turn a short hike into a crash course in local geology. The walking is gentle enough for most visitors, making it a good choice for mixed-ability groups or a lighter day between winery visits. Expect more of a scenic, educational stroll than a workout, but the fossilized trees are genuinely impressive.
05
Most rugged adventure
Palisades Trail
Northeast Of Calistoga Above Silverado Trail • Rocky Backcountry Ridge Route • Best For All-Day Adventurers
A long, sometimes rough path that traces dramatic volcanic cliffs with constant views and a remote, wild feel.
The Palisades Trail is a local favorite for hikers who want something wilder than the typical wine-country stroll, with uneven footing, narrow singletrack, and plenty of elevation changes. In return, you get close-up looks at sheer rock faces, quiet forest sections, and big views back toward Calistoga and beyond. Plan this one as a dedicated outing with ample water, sturdy footwear, and a clear sense of your turnaround point.