For peak-baggers who want the best possible views of Napa Valley, Mount Saint Helena is a steady pace all the way up to the 4,343 foot peak.
The Mount Saint Helena hike is a 9.8 mile up and down hike near Napa, California in Robert Louis Stevenson State Park. Due to the distance and ascent this hike is moderate to difficult. It’s a well maintained and wide trail the entire way. Dogs are not able to use this trail. It took us over 3 hours with limited stops along the way.
Details:
Directions (Google Maps): To get to the Mount Saint Helena trailhead, search for the 4625 Lake County Hwy near Napa, California, or click here.
Directions (old school maps): From Napa, take Highway 29 north for about 29 miles. You’ll turn off to the right to park, and then cross the highway to begin the hike. 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 9am. The weather was crisp at 70 degrees but gets warmer as you ascend with total exposure.
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 as it’s technically a fire road.
Water & Food: We drank about a liter each, but in the warmer months you should definitely bring extra water. The trail is wide enough to always have places to pull over and snack or rest.
Trailhead Info: The trail starts right from the parking area on the sides of the highway. The trail is easy to follow the entire way but there are 2 junctions to pay attention to. There are no bathroom facilities at the parking lot.
Pictures of the Mount Saint Helena hike:
Right away you ascend into the forest along the mountainside. This is the only shade of the entire trail.
Most of the trail looks like this, a nice wide open walkway with expansive views off the side.
As you work your way closer to the peak, you can spot the electrical towers at the very top where you’ll eventually end up.
From the top, the views are incredible looking down upon the Napa Valley.
Stunning landscape views in all directions.
If you’re lucky, you’ll have a relatively clear day to see for miles and miles towards the ocean.
Down for another hike in Napa? The Lake Hennessey Shoreline to Alta Loop Trail hike is just as beautiful but provides a completely different type of hiking experience. Walk along the serene shoreline and then hike above it for lake views amongst the rolling hills and oak trees.
