Summer 2023
Riding the Napa Valley Vine Trail
If you’re looking for a beautiful and unique way to explore Wine Country, look no further than the Napa Valley Vine Trail.
An ambitious endeavor that combines practicality, safety, and aesthetics, the Vine Trail is a multi-use trail that, in its final form, will span 47 miles and connect the entire Napa Valley from Calistoga to the Vallejo Ferry — physically, artistically, and culturally. It offers views of sprawling vineyards, rolling hills, and majestic mountains while providing a safe path for walkers, runners, and cyclists.
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The Vine Trail was first conceived in the early 1990s by vintner Tom Shelton, who envisioned a walking and biking trail in Napa. Creating a continuous system was a challenge due to private property issues and resistance from landowners, but Shelton never gave up on his vision. Then in 2004, vintner, entrepreneur, and philanthropist Chuck McMinn and his wife Anne moved to Napa. They had often rented bicycles while vacationing around the world, and McMinn was surprised that Napa Valley, a place with stunning scenery and near-perfect weather, didn't offer a safe and accessible option for those wishing to travel by bike or foot. As he settled into life in Napa, McMinn got to know Shelton and they began to garner support from residents and farmers.
In 2008 McMinn founded the Napa Valley Vine Trail Coalition, a nonprofit that has been working to fund and build the trail since. With McMinn’s passion for cycling and his entrepreneurial spirit, he was the perfect person to spearhead efforts to bring the Vine Trail to life.
The 47-mile trail is slated for completion in 2027 — today the trail covers 20 miles, with one continuous 12.5-mile stretch from South Napa to Yountville. That stretch passes through some of the most beautiful countryside in the world, and along the way, visitors and locals can enjoy world-class wineries, amazing restaurants, and stunning scenery. Whether you're a wine lover, a foodie, or an outdoor enthusiast, the Vine Trail has something to offer. Here are some of the highlights you can experience along the way.
Start your journey at WALT Wines in Napa’s Oxbow District. The winery is known for its delicious Pinot Noir, and a light tasting is a perfect way to begin your journey. Then head across the street to the Culinary Institute of America at Copia, a foodie wonderland that houses the Chuck Williams Culinary Arts Museum. The museum displays over 4,000 rare and unique cookware and culinary tools that belonged to Chuck Williams, founder of Williams-Sonoma. It’s a must-see for food lovers and is admission free.
From there it is less than a mile to the Rail Arts District, a unique outdoor art exhibit that features dozens of murals, sculptures, and interactive pieces, all created by local and international artists. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's vibrant arts and culture scene. Hop on your bike for a three-mile ride up the trail to Foodshed Takeaway, a family-owned eatery whose handcrafted pizzas, fresh pastas, and wholesome salads make it a favorite destination for locals and visitors. Grab some food for the road or stop for a lunch break before heading up the valley.
You’ll ride about three miles north to Trefethen Family Vineyards where you can tour the historic winery, stroll through the beautiful grounds, and taste their world-class wines. After hydrating, hop on your bike and ride to the charming town of Yountville, home of world-renowned restaurants, tasting rooms, luxury hotels, shopping, and galleries. Take a self-guided audio tour of the Yountville Arts Walk, an outdoor exhibit featuring 35 sculptural installations. Afterward, head to the JCB Tasting Salon, a one-of-a-kind tasting room and retail store curated and created by vintner Jean-Charles Boisset.
A visit to Yountville is not complete without a stop at the town’s beloved Bouchon Bakery, known for its delicious French pastries and baked goods — the perfect sweet treat before returning to Napa. You’ll culminate your ride at the 350-acre Kennedy Park along the Napa River, and see for yourself why this is the perfect way to experience the region’s beauty, culture, and community.