Oat Hill Mine Trailhead — Attraction in Calistoga

Oat Hill Mine Trail is a 14.1 mile out and back trail in Calistoga that has amazing views of the valley and vineyards as well rock formations. We hiked to the three mile marker and back so six miles total and plan on going farther next time. This is a great trail for both hikers and experienced mountain bikers. The trail is dog friendly so if you want to bring your dog the only requirement is that all dogs are on leashes.

There is a small parking lot at the start of the trail and plenty of parking along the side of the road. It's good to know that there is not a bathroom at the start of the trail so plan accordingly. The trail is a slow and steady incline with mile markers along the way. There are benches along the way to stop and take in the natural beauty or have a picnic. Enjoy the hike! We were so happy we found this place and can't wait to come back!

Some tips: 1.) There is not a lot of tree cover so bring a hat and sunscreen. 2.) There is a lot of loose gravel so wear hiking shoes if you have them. 3.) Bring a backpack with plenty of water. 4.) Consider bringing snacks if you plan on hiking farther on this trail so that you...

Oat Hill is a challenging trail: you start with a sustained climb about 4-5 miles long and encounter plenty of technical spots. Print out a map to bring - although the network of trails is fairly simple there really aren't any bail-out points. The usual precautions for remote exploration definitely apply here: Bring extra water/food, plan for emergencies and don't expect cell coverage everywhere.

The trailhead at Calistoga has very limited parking, so expect to park on the road, if you can fit your car out of traffic. There is a private home immediately next to the trailhead, so take care not to park in front of that house or driveway.

Palisades trail (branches off Oat Hill at about 4.5 miles) is especially rugged. It is a very narrow trail, with steep drop offs in many spots. Poison oak is common here. I would advise avoiding it unless you are well-prepared, fit, and not alone.

That being said, Oat Hill Mine trail is great...

Good "trail" for exercise. It's a beat up old fire road / wagon road. Not maintained at all. Views of, you guessed it, rich folks Napa valley wineries, Mmmmmmm. But let's face it, youre here because your choices are limited with all the swanky private landownership and relative lack of land with any elevation difference to it, so in that respect it's a good trail for the area. However compared to anywhere else in CA, outside of Napa and Sonoma counties, its only marginally satisfactory. And the parking is limited, and weird. You may enjoy the neat volcanic rocks and the history of the trail according to my sig other. Maybe...