Silverado Trail
Silverado Trail: Napa Valley's Scenic Escape
Silverado Trail: Napa Valley's Scenic Wine Route
Discover Napa Valley's serene side: a scenic drive through rolling vineyards and world-class wineries on the historic Silverado Trail.
The Silverado Trail, a tranquil and picturesque road running parallel to the bustling Highway 29, offers a serene journey through Napa Valley's esteemed wine country. Originally a wagon trail dating back to 1852, it's now a 29-mile route dotted with world-class wineries and stunning vineyard views, making it a must-visit for wine enthusiasts and scenic drivers alike.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Silverado Trail
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
California, US
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Getting There
Driving
From downtown Napa, take CA-121/Soscol Avenue north to the intersection with the Silverado Trail. Turn right onto the Silverado Trail to begin your journey. From Calistoga, the Silverado Trail starts at the intersection of CA-29 (Lincoln Avenue) and the Oat Hill Mine Trail. Follow the Silverado Trail south towards Napa. Keep in mind that traffic can be heavy on weekends and during peak tourist season. Parking is available at most wineries, but it can fill up quickly. Some wineries may offer valet parking for a fee. Expect to pay around $16-$28 for daily parking at resorts.
Public Transport
While there isn't direct public transportation along the entire Silverado Trail, Vine Transit, Napa County's public bus service, offers connections to Napa and Calistoga. From San Francisco Airport (SFO), you can take BART to El Cerrito Del Norte Station, then transfer to a Vine Transit bus towards Calistoga. From there, you can use local taxi or rideshare services to reach specific wineries along the Silverado Trail. The Calistoga Shuttle offers on-demand service within Calistoga for a nominal fee of $1 per trip for non-lodging guests. A single ride on Vine Transit costs around $1.50 - $5.00.
Cycling
The Silverado Trail is a popular route for cyclists, offering a Class II bike lane for much of its length. Bike rentals are available in Napa and Calistoga. Be aware that the road can be busy, especially on weekends, so it's important to stay alert and follow biking safety guidelines. There are no specific bike parking fees, but be sure to lock your bike securely at each stop.
Local tips
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Consider visiting during the weekdays or mornings to avoid heavy traffic and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
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Book winery tours and tastings in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.
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Bring a picnic to enjoy at one of the wineries with scenic picnic areas, such as Rutherford Hill Winery.
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If you plan to bike, be aware of the traffic and road conditions, and follow biking safety tips.
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Take your time and savor the experience; the Silverado Trail is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace.
Discover more about Silverado Trail
The Silverado Trail, nestled on the eastern edge of Napa Valley, presents a delightful alternative to the more crowded Highway 29. This scenic route, stretching 29 miles from Napa to Calistoga, is a haven of tranquility, winding past rolling vineyards and oak-lined landscapes.
Originally constructed in 1852, the Silverado Trail served as the first permanent road connecting Napa and Calistoga. It initially facilitated access to the quicksilver mines in the northern Napa Valley. The name 'Silverado' itself is a nod to the silver mining boom that once occurred in the area. In 1921, the road was officially named the Silverado Trail.
Today, the Silverado Trail is renowned for its concentration of prestigious wineries. Over 40 wineries call the Silverado Trail home, offering visitors a diverse array of tasting experiences and stunning vineyard views. Notable wineries along the trail include Joseph Phelps, ZD Wines, Signorello Winery, Stag's Leap Wine Cellars, Mumm Napa, and Silverado Vineyards. Many offer tours, tastings, and events, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the art of winemaking.
The Silverado Trail also provides access to other attractions such as lavish wine-country resorts, including Auberge du Soleil and Solage Calistoga. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy biking along the Class II bike lane, offering a unique way to experience the scenery.
A brief summary to Silverado Trail
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