Escape the Napa crowds and indulge in the tranquil solitude of Lake Hennessey, as this trail hugs the shoreline and then provides breathtaking vistas from above.
The Lake Hennessey Shoreline to Alta Loop Trail hike is a 5.5 mile loop near Napa, California. Due to the ascent this hike is easy to moderate, but it’s a well maintained trail with plenty of spots to rest. Dogs are able to use this hike. It took us 2 hours with a variety of stops along the way to take pictures and snack.
Details:
Directions (Google Maps): To get to the Lake Hennessey Shoreline trailhead, search for the Moore Creek Park Entrance near Napa County Regional Park District, or click here.
Directions (old school maps): From Napa, take Silverado Trail until Howell Mountain Road where you’ll turn right and go about 5 miles. Note that Howell Mountain Road turns into Conn Valley Road. You’ll end at the park entrance where you can park along the side of the road. There are no bathrooms.
Driving Info: This is an easy paved drive the entire way, but the mountain roads get tight and curvy. Drive safe and pay attention for deer.
Time & Weather: We hiked this trail in late May and started hiking around 10am. The weather was crisp at 70 degrees and stays cool as you stay close to the water.
Gear: We wore 1 extra layer for warmth, solid hiking boots, hat & sunglasses. Hiking poles are helpful for the ascent and descent.
Trail Navigation: The trail is easy to follow the entire way. There are a variety of side-trails to take, so just pay attention to the well-marked signs.
Water & Food: We drank about a liter each, but in the warmer months you should definitely bring extra water. There are a variety of places to stop and relax and enjoy some snacks.
Trailhead Info: The trail starts right from the parking area. The trail is easy to follow the entire way. There are no bathroom facilities at the parking lot, but there is a picnic table and some trash receptacles.
Pictures of the Lake Hennessey Shoreline and Alta Loop Trail:
Right away you break right and begin to hug the gorgeous shoreline of Lake Hennessey.
Most of the shoreline trail is wide open with plenty of space for families, cyclists and dogs.
Giant oaks line the trail at certain sections, with views of the lake in the distance.
These picturesque landscapes are around every curve of the shoreline.
Once you ascend above the shoreline there are plenty of spectacular views down below where you can see the lake in its entirety.
Looking to hike the highest peak in Napa? The Mount Saint Helena hike takes you to the best views of the Napa Valley. It's a wide fire road hike in a gradual ascent all the way to the top of the 4,300+ foot peak.
