The 8.3 mile long Oat Hill Mine Trail follows the original route between Calistoga and the western end of Aetna Springs Road in Pope Valley. The old mercury mines are further to the north, and are not open to the public.
The trail provides a magnificent recreational experience for hikers, mountain bicyclists and equestrians, although the trail is rough and rocky in many places, and can be quite challenging Visitors enjoy sweeping views of Napa Valley along the lower Oat Hill Mine Trail, while the middle and upper sections of the trail cross striking volcanic formations.
The trail passes through a diverse mixture of Oak, Douglas Fir, Gray Pine and Cypress forests, chaparral, and grasslands. Spring wildflowers are exceptional.
Please note: Parts of the trail cross Robert Louis Stevenson State Park, dogs are permitted on the Oat Hill Mine Trail, but not off the trail within the State Park.
It is also important to note that Upper Oat Hill Mine Trail is closed in late summer during periods of high fire hazard and deer hunting season. Check the web site for dates.
• Parking: Limited
• Fee: None
• Water: Bring your own.
• Best time of year to hike: Spring, when the weather is mild. Summer is very hot, and their is limited shade.
• Distance: 4.5 miles
• Degree of difficulty: Moderate
• Hours of operation: Sunrise to sunset
• Dog rules: Dogs are welcome to be off leash as long as they are under voice control at all times.
