Can you drive to the top of Mount Saint Helena?

Can You Drive to the Top of Mount Saint Helena? Let’s Clear That Up.

Mount Saint Helena. Just the name conjures up images of sweeping vistas and that feeling of being on top of the world, doesn’t it? This majestic peak, straddling Napa, Sonoma, and Lake counties, is a magnet for anyone who loves the outdoors. And if you’re planning a visit, you’ve probably wondered, like many others before you: can you just drive right up to the summit?

Well, here’s the straight scoop: No, you can’t.

While there’s a road that winds its way up the mountainside, it doesn’t quite make it to the very top. Think of it as getting you most of the way there, but with a final, rewarding push needed to reach the prize. The road itself? It’s a mix of paved sections and good old-fashioned gravel, more of a utility or fire road than a scenic highway.

Getting to the Starting Line: The Trailhead

Your adventure usually kicks off at Robert Louis Stevenson State Park. Yep, named after that Robert Louis Stevenson, the author of “Treasure Island” and “Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.” Turns out, he and his wife spent their honeymoon holed up in an old mine bunkhouse on the mountain back in 1880! Talk about a unique honeymoon destination. He even wrote about his experiences in a travel memoir called “The Silverado Squatters.” Pretty cool, huh?

To find the trailhead, you’ll want to head north on Highway 29 from Calistoga. Keep an eye out; it’s about 7 miles north of town. Fair warning: the parking situation can get a little crazy, especially on weekends when everyone’s trying to escape the city. So, pro tip: get there early! You’ll find the parking area in a dirt lot just off Highway 29. You can’t miss the signs. Just a heads up, the Table Rock side (east side) of the highway parking might be closed temporarily due to repairs.

Time to Lace Up Those Boots: The Hike

Okay, so you’ve parked the car. Now comes the fun part: the hike! It’s a 10-mile round trip, and don’t let anyone tell you it’s a walk in the park. You’re looking at an elevation gain of over 2,000 feet. But trust me, the views are worth every drop of sweat.

The trail starts at the Stevenson Memorial Trailhead. The first bit is all switchbacks, winding through a forest of oak, madrone, and Douglas fir. About 0.7 miles in, you’ll stumble upon the Robert Louis Stevenson Memorial, marking the spot where his honeymoon cabin once stood. It’s a neat little piece of history.

From there, the trail gets a bit steeper before it meets up with the fire road. Hang a left onto the road, and the climb becomes more gradual. This is where you start getting those amazing views of Napa Valley. Keep going, and eventually, you’ll reach the North Peak, the highest point in Napa County. You’ll see some communication towers up there, but don’t worry, they don’t spoil the view.

A Few Things to Keep in Mind Before You Go:

• Seriously, You Can’t Drive to the Top: I know I already said it, but it’s worth repeating. Hiking is required!
• Park Hours: Robert Louis Stevenson State Park is open from sunrise to sunset. Plan accordingly.
• Pack Smart: There’s no water and no restrooms. Bring plenty of water and pack out everything you bring in. Leave no trace, people!
• Footwear is Key: The trail can be rocky and steep. Wear good hiking shoes and be prepared for anything the weather throws at you.
• Bikes Have Limits: Bikes are only allowed on the road to the peak and on the Oat Hill Mine Trail. No single-track riding.
• Leave Fido at Home: Sorry, dog lovers, but dogs aren’t allowed in the park.
• Weather or Not: Check the forecast before you head out. Mountain weather can be unpredictable.

So, while you can’t drive all the way to the top of Mount Saint Helena, the hike is an adventure in itself. With a little planning and preparation, you’ll be rewarded with some of the most incredible views in California. Get out there and explore!