Are you seeking a back-to-nature experience? Fresh air and redwood trees found in wine country? Explore the great outdoors and discover St. Helena’s adventurous side. From exploring the peaks of Mount St. Helena to traveling Napa Valley’s wine region by train, St. Helena has it all to make your wine country experience filled with natural wonders and spectacular scenery.
Take your adventure to new heights with Napa Valley Aloft voted USA Today’s #1 best hot air balloon company. Soaring high above the clouds your balloon ride will feature unparalleled views of vineyards and surrounding mountains showcasing Napa Valley’s diverse wine region. Floating above the valley floor your expert hot air balloon pilot will point out iconic sites and hidden gems along the way. After your journey, enjoy a post-flight sparkling wine celebration to toast your memorable experience. Insider tip: Mornings can be chilly, so pack extra layers.
To truly understand a destination, you need the best #IYKYK insider tips and best-kept secrets. Lucky for you Napa Valley Bike Tours expert local guide takes you on an adventure of a lifetime. Offering curated local wine tours, seasonal picnics, self-guided bike tours, and daily bike rentals, there’s a path for everyone.
The adventure continues by foot at Bale Grist Mill Historic State Park. This California hideaway offers a peek into the rural heritage of Napa Valley’s historic 1846 Mill. One of only two water-driven mills remaining west of the Mississippi River today. Recently restored, the Mill offers walking tours, demonstrations, and an opportunity to mill your bag of grain. Adjacent to the historic site, cool off with a moderate hike and pool dip on the History Trail. This trail is a 2.4-mile round trip single-track trail that connects to Bothe Napa Valley State Park which offers seasonal swimming on the weekends. Local tip: Bring wine and cheese to enjoy a picnic under the towering Douglas Firs after your spring-fed dip!
All aboard! It’s impossible to visit St. Helena without exploring it by the original rail line built in 1864. The Napa Valley Wine Train is a luxurious vintage era coming to life again in St. Helena. Tuck into your seats as the train car rolls through the countryside. With an array of enticing adventures, there is always something new to try on the Wine Train. This year-round destination experience is best to book in advance if you’re planning to visit during the high season.
St. Helena is known for our famous American Viticulture area with adjacent districts like Spring Mountain and Howell Mountain, so seeing the diverse agriculture is best done by driving. If you require transportation, we prefer an afternoon with Napa Sonoma Wine Guy. In addition to providing daily transportation needs for small or large groups, Raoul offers exclusive off-the-grid wine tasting tours designed to wow your palate! It’s an absolute must to discover St. Helena AVA wine with a local expert.
Lake Berryessa, a little over a thirty-minute drive from St. Helena, is the largest lake in Napa County, California. The Lake offers boating, water skiing, wake-boarding, tubing, and other fast-paced water sports as well as opportunities to experience a variety of wildlife and plant exploration activities. Explore Highway 128 for its curvy drive and plenty of luscious greenery to take in the sights. Insider tip, check out Nichelini Winery situated along the drive.
From dawn to dusk the Napa Valley Vine Trail is a perfect outlet for visitors looking for fitness, dog-friendly trails, and biking. The 47-mile paved scenic trail begins near the Ferry Terminal in historic Vallejo and continues north through Napa Valley. Currently, under construction, the northern gateway from St. Helena to Calistoga will be completed in the Spring of 2023. Don’t forget to fuel up along the way. Many local wineries are scattered adjacent to the trail.
Ready to ride? Get moving, breathe the fresh air, soak in the sunshine and find inspiration while exploring the great outdoors in St. Helena.