Biking – NapaValley.com https://www.napavalley.com Explore Napa Valley Sat, 29 Jun 2024 22:47:17 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.5 The Best Outdoor Experiences in Napa Valley https://www.napavalley.com/blog/outdoor-activities-napa-valley/ https://www.napavalley.com/blog/outdoor-activities-napa-valley/#respond Sat, 19 Mar 2022 17:26:28 +0000 https://www.napavalley.com/?p=38590 Put down your glass of wine and get outside. From golf to hiking and camping, here's our guide to the best ways to enjoy the outdoors in Napa Valley.

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With near-perfect weather and sun almost year round, Napa Valley beckons wine lovers out from air-conditioned tasting rooms to spend some time exploring the great outdoors — and we don’t just mean frolicking in the vineyards. From hiking and biking to golfing, camping, and even soaking in the hot springs, here’s our guide to Napa Valley’s best outdoor experiences.

Hike

Skyline Wilderness Park | Samanda Dorger-Poccia
Skyline Wilderness Park, Photo Courtesy of Samanda Dorger-Poccia

Easy

If wine, wine, and more wine is your priority and you’re looking for a quick and easy hike, consider Westwood Hills Park or Alston Park (the most pup friendly), both located in Napa. In just an hour or two, you’ll successfully get your heart rate up on some steep climbs, plus take in a spectacular view of the surrounding Napa Valley. You can also head north to Bothe-Napa Valley State Park. Just south of Calistoga, most of the trails here are under two miles. It’s also an opportunity to pay a visit to the historic mill at Bale Grist Mill State Park, which has a trail connecting to Bothe-Napa.

Moderate

The Ritchey Canyon Trail at Bothe-Napa, however, is an eight-mile round trip journey through thick redwoods and over babbling streams. Other longer and moderately challenging hikes can be found at Skyline Wilderness Park in Napa. A hike of the perimeter, which includes a lake and a 1,600-foot summit, stretches for nine miles. The scenic Skyline Trail is a more doable three miles, yet still climbs more than 1,000 feet and circles the lake.

A 15 – 20 minute drive from St. Helena, Moore Creek Park is a bit off-the-beaten-path, but worth it, and is your best chance at spotting wildlife (everything from bald eagles and cattle to mountain lions and bobcats). Combine the Chiles Creek Trail with the Shoreline Trail for a 6.4-mile loop that runs adjacent to the serene Lake Hennessey or push yourself on a heart-pumping three-mile climb up the Moore Creek Trail. At the top, a swimming hole awaits.

Advanced

Napa Valley’s most popular hikes are found north of Calistoga at Robert Louis Stevenson State Park, where the revered author spent his honeymoon. The farthest-reaching views of the Bay Area are obtained from over 4,000 feet at the top of the five-mile trail up Mt. St. Helena (10 miles round trip). Most of that hike is on fire road, however, so some hikers prefer hiking the more natural Table Rock and Palisades Trail (eight miles round trip) or even continuing on to the Oak Hill Mine Trail, which extends for 19-miles round trip.

Bike

Getaway Adventures
Photo Courtesy of Getaway Adventures

The eventual goal of the Napa Valley Vine Trail is to complete a 47-mile walking and biking trail system between Vallejo and Calistoga. For now, there is a 12.5-mile section between Napa and Yountville, allowing for 25 leisurely miles round trip. The trail is pretty flat and is a great way to feel less guilty about all of the wine and food you’ll be consuming.

You can rent bikes from Getaway Adventures, or opt for one of their guided bike tours — from Carneros to Calistoga — paired with wine or beer.

Mountain bikers can find trails in Skyline Wilderness Park and Moore Creek Park. Advanced riders can tackle 16 miles over 2,800 feet of elevation along the Oat Hill Mine Trail in Robert Louis Stevenson State Park.

Camp

Bothe-Napa Valley State Park | Napa Valley State Parks
Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, Photo Courtesy of Napa Valley State Parks

Camping opportunities in Napa Valley are limited — it’s all about living the life of luxury in Wine Country — but Bothe-Napa Valley State Park has 45 campsites for tents and RVs, or you can glamp in one of their 10 furnished Yurts or fully restored historic cabins. You’ll easily be able to access the park’s hiking trails and there’s even a swimming pool. Skyline Wilderness Park also offers tent camping, RV camping, and horse camping.

Farther out, Lake Berryessa (a 45-minute drive from Napa) has several lakeside camping opportunities. Check out campgrounds like Spanish Flat Resort, Putah Canyon, Steele Canyon Campground, and Pleasure Cove Campground and Marina.

Golf

Silverado Resort
Photo Courtesy of Silverado Resort

Despite most of Napa Valley being covered in vineyards, there is a myriad of golf courses in the area. Book a tee time at the beautiful Silverado Resort, which boasts a pair of championship courses and hosts the annual Safeway Open. Note: To play at Silverado, you’ve also got to stay a night, or just know a member. Kennedy Park and the Mount St. Helena Golf courses are the most accessible and beginner friendly. At Skyline Wilderness Park there’s a disc golf course, for a different take on golfing.

At Your Leisure

Old Faithful Geyser of California
Photo Courtesy of Facebook: Old Faithful Geyser of California

If you don’t exactly want to work up a sweat on your vacation, there are plenty of more leisurely outdoor experiences in Napa Valley. Board a hot air balloon ride at sunrise — book with Napa Valley Balloons, Inc. or Napa Valley Aloft Balloons. Or, head out to see the Old Faithful Geyser — one of the most-visited attractions in California — erupt in Calistoga, then make your way north to take a stroll through fossilized sequoias in the Petrified Forest. To ease your worries (or sore muscles) away, soak in Calistoga’s natural hot springs at spots like the newly revamped Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort and Mineral Springs, known as Calistoga’s original wellness resort.

Many wineries get you outdoors too. Explore 1,682 acres of pristine mountainscape during a tour and tasting at Somerston Estate, or opt for the Vineyard Hike with a picnic at Cuvaison. You can play a game of bocce at Trinchero Napa Valley while sipping on their estate-grown Cabernet, and, for something a little more adventurous, the ATV Experience at Hess Persson Estates will have you riding through the vineyards to get an up-close view of the property and its vines.

Conclusion

Life in Napa Valley is all about balance. So of course sip amazing wines and dine at world-class restaurants, but also set aside some time to get outside and explore the region beyond the vines.

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8 Reasons Napa Valley Is So Awesome In The Summer https://www.napavalley.com/blog/8-reasons-napa-valley-is-so-awesome-in-the-summer/ https://www.napavalley.com/blog/8-reasons-napa-valley-is-so-awesome-in-the-summer/#respond Thu, 15 Jun 2017 08:00:22 +0000 https://www.napavalley.com/?p=25263 The beauty of Napa Valley is obvious year-round with its rolling vineyards, incomparable sunsets, and mountain ranges bookending the valley. When the days grow longer and the sun is shining bright, the sights and adventure of the valley really peaks.

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The beauty of Napa Valley is obvious year-round with its rolling vineyards, incomparable sunsets, and mountain ranges bookending the valley. When the days grow longer and the sun is shining bright, the sights and adventure of the valley really peaks. Prep your sense of adventure and a killer pair of sunglasses, and dive into 8 Reasons Why Napa Valley is So Beautiful in Summertime.

Sitting Poolside


What’s summer without a dip in the pool and soaking in the sun? Well, Napa Valley is chock-full of great places to wade in the water and get a great tan.

Bardessono
6526 Yount Street
Yountville, CA 94599
(707) 204-6000

The rooftop pool at Bardessono Hotel is a popular summertime hangout that features comfy daybed-style cabanas, a bar, and spectacular views of the valley. From June to November, hotel guests can enjoy dining poolside from the award-winning, Lucy Restaurant and Bar.

Indian Springs Resort & Spa
1712 Lincoln Avenue
Calistoga, CA 94515
(707) 942-4913

Described as its “heart and soul”, the pools at Indian Springs Resort & Spa have been attracting guests seeking out the restorative powers of the thermal waters from the geysers since the 19th century. Soak in the energy from the Olympic-sized, main pool or relax in the more intimate setting of the adult-only pool, with lush surroundings that provide maximum privacy.

Comon’ Get Higher


Embrace your sense of adventure as you explore the beauty of the Napa Valley from high above the sky.

Balloons Above the Valley
603 California Boulevard
Napa, CA 94559
(707) 253-2222

With over 30 years of commitment to excellence, Balloons Above the Valley shines through in creating an incomparable guest experience. From the pre-flight pastries and coffee, to the celebratory Champagne brunch, not a single detail is missed. Opt for the Winery Tour package and continue your adventure after your sunrise flight.

Napa Valley Balloons, Inc.
4086 Byway East
Napa, CA 94558
(707) 944-0228

Make memories that will last a lifetime with award-winning Napa Valley Balloons. The most experienced pilots in the Napa Valley will guide you above breathtaking views of the vineyards and mountainous hillsides set against the morning sky. A delicious, American-style breakfast and fine sparkling wines await you at Domaine Chandon’s Etoile Restaurant post trip.

Patio Tastings In the Sun


Exceptional wines and great views are elements that draw visitors to the Napa Valley time and time again. Nothing like savoring your wine on a warm, sunny day with views of the vineyards and mountainous hillsides.

Hall Wines
401 Saint Helena Highway, South Street
Saint Helena, CA 94574
(707) 967-2626

Renowned throughout the valley for its collection of modern artwork from all over the world (including the iconic “Bunny Foo Foo”), Hall St. Helena’s award-winning Cabernets hail from 14 out of 16 Napa Valley appellations. Enjoy your wine from the balcony, overlooking the lush 33-acre property, or relax and unwind on the Great Lawn and take in the views of the vines.

Provenance Vineyards
1695 Saint Helena Highway, South
Rutherford, CA 94573
(707) 968-3633

The Patio Tasting at Provenance Vineyards offers not only delicious, small-lot fine wines, but you’ll also get comfy sofas, a fire pit, and outstanding panoramic views of the valley.

Cosentino Winery
7415 Saint Helena Highway
Napa, CA 94558
(707) 921-2809

Only two years old, the beautiful patio at Cosentino Winery has become a popular spot for guests to enjoy their tasting. Whether you are breathing easy in the shade or toasting to an awesome day by the fire pit, Cosentino’s patio is a must-stop on your way in or on your way out of the valley.

Fresh Pickin’s


Napa Farmers Market
195 Gasser Drive
Napa, CA 94559
(707) 501-3087

Extending their 2017 season from April to November, Napa Farmers Market is host to more than 40 local farms with offerings of fruits, veggies, flowers, meat, and more! With regional artisans, gourmet foods, chef demos, and activities for the kids, a trip to the market can be a family affair, fit for all ages.

Saint Helena Farmers Market
360 Crane Ave
Saint Helena, CA 94574
(707) 486-2662

Every Friday, from May through October, Crane Park is bustling with Napa Valley locals at the St. Helena Farmers Market. Fill your bag with fresh produce and regional gourmet treats, or browse the handmade crafts of local artists. The market favorite is the General Store, which showcases merchandise featuring the winning artwork from the “I Love Our Farmers’ Market” art competition.

Insider Tip: Pack a picnic and bring the kids. Crane Park features a large playground area with picnic tables shaded by Redwood trees.

Explore the Silverado Trail


A visitor’s paradise, the popular and busy Highway 29 stretches from Napa to Calistoga with wineries, tasting rooms, restaurants, and boutiques at every turn. The beautiful and serene Silverado Trail is also home to some of Napa Valley’s most outstanding wineries with premium, world-class wines and amazing scenery.

Miner Family Winery
7850 Silverado Trail
Napa, CA 94558
(707) 944-9500

Tucked into the eastern hills of the Oakville AVA, stop by Miner Family Winery for the dramatic views and impressive reserve-styled wines. Each wine is poured into Riedel stemware designed to enhance the character of each varietal.

Rutherford Ranch Winery
1680 Silverado Trail S.
Saint Helena, CA 94574
707.968.3200

The award-winning line up at Rutherford Ranch Winery is sure to impress and please the palate. The popular Reserve Wine and Chocolate Tasting is a sweet way to tantalize your taste buds. Or for a more in-depth experience, the sensory analysis seminar is an awesome way for guests to learn to taste wines like a pro.

The Napa River


The Napa River stretches about 55 miles and runs right through the hustle and bustle of downtown Napa.

Napa’s Riverfront
500 Main Street
Napa, CA 94559

Eat, shop, and stay when visiting Napa’s Riverfront. Some of Napa Valley’s most exquisite restaurants, quaint retail shops, and luxurious accommodations are right at your fingertips.

Napa River Wine Tours
66 Glenwood Drive
Napa, CA 94559
(707) 320-7554

Get on board, relax on the river, and experience the best of the valley when you book a tour with Napa River Wine Tours. Local fine wines and microbrews are yours to enjoy as you explore the sights and sounds of the Napa Valley.

Insider Tip: Check out Napa’s Riverfront Napa City Nights Summer Concert Series. 2017 is the 10th anniversary of this series, and the line-up is one of the best yet with performances from all musical genres to fit your fancy.

Free Wheelin’


Now, if there’s one thing you can find locals doing in the Napa Valley, it’s going for a bike ride. For some, it’s bike trails, a stop to pick up treats from a local favorite shop, or a quick afternoon tasting at a cozy winery. When the weather is warm and the breeze is cool, a quiet ride down the Silverado trail can be the best part of the day. Bike tours are a great way to explore the Napa Valley and its picturesque surroundings.

Napa Valley Bike Tours
6500 Washington Street
Yountville, CA 94599
(707) 944-2953

Join a group with Napa Valley Bike Tours and pedal along as your tour guide leads you down country roads, through the vineyards, or to a trendy spot to taste impeccable wines.

Getaway Adventures
(800) 499-2453

Hop on and follow the fun with Getaway Adventures. Their popular Sip N Cycle bike tour is an awesome journey to some of Napa Valley’s most renowned small, family-owned wineries with a picnic lunch to boot.

Insider Tip: Not into hanging with the crowd? Opt for a Self-Guided bike tour with Napa Valley Bike Tours and go where you want to go.

Rosé All The Way


Keeping cool in the summertime is easy when you have access to some of wine country’s best rose-styled wines.

Peju Winery
8466 St. Helena Highway
Rutherford, CA 94573
(800) 446-7358

A unique blend of both red and white wines, Peju’s Province is fun, versatile, and elegant. The cranberry, raspberry, and cherry flavors of this delicious blend make it the perfect complement to your summer barbeque, Sunday afternoon on the porch, or even a quaint sunset dinner.

Shundria Reed is the blogger of Southern Girl in a Wine World. She also serves as Media Lead for the Oakland Wine Festival. In her spare time, she enjoys exploring the ins and outs of California Wine Life.

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Wine Tasting Adventures on Two Wheels | Biking and Wine Tasting https://www.napavalley.com/blog/wine-tasting-adventures-on-two-wheels/ https://www.napavalley.com/blog/wine-tasting-adventures-on-two-wheels/#respond Sat, 10 Jun 2017 08:00:03 +0000 https://www.napavalley.com/?p=25217 Wine is notably the star of the show in Napa Valley, but an adventure to wine country can be so much more with the valley’s incredible views and gorgeous, temperate weather throughout most of the year.

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Wine is notably the star of the show in Napa Valley, but an adventure to wine country can be so much more with the valley’s incredible views and gorgeous, temperate weather throughout most of the year. Wineries speckle the landscape and line the roads with bountiful opportunities to sip the fruits of the region’s labor. But why sit in a stuffy car between tasting appointments when you can explore the beautiful landscape atop two wheels?

It’s time to feel the wind in your hair, cruising around the vines, closer to the natural beauty of the valley. We’ve compiled a list of five exciting and diverse bike tours for you to experience and enjoy new perspectives of wine country. Grab the handlebars and hit the road for an invigorating tour, no sticky spandex needed.

Getaway Adventures
(707) 568-3040
Trip Advisor: 5 stars; 406 reviews

What began as a family biking and wine buying excursion for owner Randy Johnson turned into an accidental business. Getaway Adventures is aptly named as their mission is to focus on their guests and they offer an experience to decompress from the stresses of daily life and getaway to beautiful settings less traversed. Their creative, outdoor experiences broach beyond Napa Valley and include tours by foot, bike, van, and water vessels, with some getaways lasting multiple days at a time.

Napa Valley Peddle and Paddle
Time: 10am – 3:30pm
Meeting Location:
Moores Landing Parking Lot
6 Cuttings Wharf Road
Napa, CA 94559

Cruise eight beautiful miles of the Carneros region, stopping in for sips at two wineries before pausing for a leisurely picnic lunch. Soak in the sun and take in the views while munching on Getaway Adventure’s signature, buffet style offerings that will be thoughtfully planned by your tour guide.

Next up on the agenda, trade in your bike and helmet for a life jacket and oar as you take to the water of the Napa River in double kayaks. Here you will experience the diverse wildlife and ecosystem of Napa Valley. Looking for something extra special experience our WineCountry Peddle and Paddle Experience.

Insider Tip: Be sure to wear clothes and shoes that can get wet along with an extra pair of dry clothing to change into after your tour. No one likes soggy bottoms.

Calistoga Sip & Cycle
Time: 10am – 3:30pm
Meeting Location:
1133 Washington Street
Calistoga, CA 94515

Head upvalley for Getaway Adventures’ most popular bike tour of rustic and charming Calistoga. Your knowledgeable guide will give you a lesson in “Grapes 101” as you pop in and out of four local wineries. This 12 mile excursion through the backroads around town will include Getaway Adventures’ distinctive, buffet-style lunch at one of your winery stops. Your guide will create healthy bites to complement the winery’s wares and to fuel up for the remainder of your beautiful ride.

Insider Tip: Before you start cruising, ask the friendly staff at the Calistoga Chamber of Commerce for additional recommendations for fun and food to explore after your tour.

Napa Valley Bike Tours
(707) 250-8687
Trip Advisor: 4.5 stars; 258 reviews

Specializing in crafting fun and adventurous activities for visitors to Napa Valley and Sonoma County, Napa Valley Bike Tours is open 362 days a year. Pick up a ride for a self-guided excursion or experience one of their half-day, full-day, or private group tours. Their tours are designed for casual riders, and for the more adventurous, avid riders, they’ve researched and crafted a list of the top nine local rides to explore.

Classic Napa Valley Bike Tour
Time: 10am – 2pm
Meeting Location:
6500 Washington Street
Yountville, CA 94599

The most classic of Napa Valley bike tours, this guided adventure leads you on an intimate, casual morning to early afternoon tour around the Yountville area. Two winery stops are included as you take in the scenic views and learn more about the dynamic history of the Valley as you glide around the vines.

Insider Tip: You’re going to be hungry post tour and thankfully Napa Valley Bike Tours include suggestions on where to visit for a late lunch. Check out their suggestions here and make reservations to guarantee a seat to eat.

Hot Air Balloon and Self-Guided Bike Tour
Time: Varying start times – 5pm
Meeting Location:
Domaine Chandon
1 California Drive
Yountville, CA 94599

Fly high above the rolling hills and vineyards of Napa Valley in this multi-faceted adventure. With a sunrise start, you’ll begin with the distinctive sounds of the hot air balloon blaster as you slowly rise above the ground to take in the quiet moments of wine country from above care of Napa Valley Balloons. Touch down from your 60 minutes of aerial splendor and take those growling stomachs to the terrace of Domaine Chandon to enjoy a sumptuous brunch, sparkling wine included.

But the tour is not done yet! This two-parter sends you on your merry way atop bicycles to enjoy a self-guided exploration of the valley. Most riders visit an average of three wineries, but this opportunity to choose and explore on your own allows each experience to be unique and tailored for your interests. Cruise, sip, and savor the diverse views and wines that make Napa Valley special.

Insider Tip: Don’t be hesitant to buy bottles from the wineries you visit. Napa Valley Bikes will pick up your purchases so you don’t miss out or add the extra weight to your bike ride.

Clif Family at Velo Vino
(707) 656-4430
Trip Advisor: 4.5 stars; 70 reviews

Wine, the outdoors, and a passion for cycling collide at Clif Family at Velo Vino. Not your ordinary tasting room, Velo Vino is your one-stop shop for a pick-me-up espresso, organic and delicious food from their acclaimed Bruschetteria food truck, or the location to rent a bicycle care of their collaboration with the Calistoga Bikeshop.

The White Road
Time: 10am – 3:30pm
Meeting Location:
Clif Family Winery
709 Main Street
St. Helena, CA 94574

A Clif bar and espresso greet you for an epic ride on one of Calistoga Bikeshop’s high performance bikes. Saddle up and head out for a tour de force of Napa Valley as you zoom along the back country roads, exploring with all senses atop a lightweight, carbon fiber ride. This tour is fully self-guided and customizable. Let the adventurer in you see where the roads take you or leverage one of eight popular rides suggested in Clif Family’s cycling road map. Head back to the tasting room to enjoy a post-ride Clif Family wine and food pairing.

Insider Tip: Clif Family at Velo Vino also hosts group excursions for the more serious riders. If you’re a biker looking to explore Napa Valley with a group of similar minded athletes, check out their Facebook events and sign up to partake in an upcoming outing.

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