Napa's Liquid Assets

Hike Lake Hennessey in Saint Helena, Napa County

09.05.2019

Looking for more ways than wine to have a good time in Napa? Just add water. Head to Lake Hennessey in Saint Helena for a moderate 5.5-mile loop hike with a bounty of scenery.

From the trailhead at the end of Conn Valley Road start clockwise on Alta Hennessey Trail, which gets the uphill section of trail done first, and by that we mean climbing to a 964-foot ridge.

The ascent is mostly gradual with a bit of steep. Winding up though the hills above the northern shore of the lake, mossy trees add splashes of color.

Soon you’ll see Hennessey below and the impressive Mayacamas Mountains stretched behind it. Descend to the Lake Hennessey Shoreline Trail for a 3-mile leisurely stroll and an up-close vantage of the water as you make your way back to the trailhead.

BONUS WINE: Post-hike, relax with some wine at Napa Valley’s recently opened first wine history museum and tasting salon: 1881 Napa. Located in a Victorian home next to the famous Oakville Grocery, 1881 Napa combines fabulous wines from the region with an impressive collection of historic wine relics.

Heading north on Hwy. 29, turn right on Zinfandel Ln., left onto Silverado Trail S, then right onto Howell Mountain Rd./Old Howell Mountain Rd. From here, continue straight onto Conn Valley Rd.oad to the Moore Creek Park Entrance at the end of the road. NOTE: This hike is completely exposed, so get an early start, bring plenty of water and sunscreen, and don’t do it on hot afternoons. Dog-friendly!

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