There are so many reasons to love Yountville – luxurious accommodations, prestigious wineries and tasting rooms, incredible dining options, and a vibrant art scene all within just a few blocks of each other. It’s time to add one more — its scenic cycling routes that wind through Napa Valley’s rural landscape. Catering to both the avid enthusiast and the leisurely explorer alike, Yountville is a perfect base from which to ride. Two idyllic routes for the recreational rider (or jogger) are the Napa Valley Vine Trail and Yount Mill Road.
The Napa Valley Vine Trail
Ask any winery owner or winemaker in Napa Valley what makes the valley special, and you’re likely to hear a version of the same response, “Napa Valley is a community that works together.” Fifteen years ago, a coalition of the wine and hospitality industry, government, and environmental advocates envisioned a 47-mile trail through the entire Napa Valley from Calistoga to the Vallejo Ferry Terminal, separate from cars, to provide a safer, enjoyable place for commuting, recreation, and a low-impact visitor activity. The result is the Napa Valley Vine Trail, which currently stretches from Yountville to downtown Napa with additional sections to be completed in 2024.
The Vine Trail can be accessed at either Madison Street, Weber Avenue, or California Drive. Within a short, flat 5-mile stretch, riders are treated to sprawling vineyards, great views of the hillsides, and several wineries including Chandon, Silenus Winery, Hill Family Estate, Elyse Winery, and Trefethen Family Vineyards. Wineries welcome visitors, with some requiring reservations. Whether a trip on the Vine Trail includes a winery stop or not, the journey along the trail is a testament to the valley’s rich viticultural heritage and collaborative spirit.
Yount Mill Road: An Insider Secret
For those craving a deeper immersion into Yountville’s countryside, Yount Mill Road presents the perfect opportunity for exploration. This scenic byway winds its way through Yountville’s rural backroads, offering cyclists an intimate experience with the region’s natural beauty. While there aren’t many wineries open to the public along this stretch, Yount Mill Road meanders past a historic pole barn, towering oak trees, and rolling fields and vineyards, and even a herd of longhorn cattle. A favorite among locals for morning walks, access Yount Mill Road by heading north on Yount Street and continue north past Yountville Cross Road. Unlike the Vine Trail, this road is open to traffic, so be mindful when riding. Fall into a single-file line to allow traffic to pass.
Get a Bike
Many of Yountville’s hotels and resorts offer bikes for guests to borrow included in their stay. Alternatively, Napa Valley Bike Tours, in business for near 40 years, (6500 Washington Street, Yountville, CA) offers several services including bike and e-bike rentals, self-guided, and guided tours. Their site is helpful to get oriented including maps, distances, and frequently asked questions.
Essentials
We asked Kellie Macway, Napa Valley Bike Tours, about her top tips for an enjoyable ride.
- Plan a head for the best experience.
- Aim for 1-2 wineries max and taste responsibly.
- Wear a helmet. You only have one head.
- Bring water and wear sunscreen.
- Wear warm layers for cool mornings. During the day shorts or capris, longer pants with tapered/slim fitted legs, flat-soled shoes and sunglasses.
- Respect private property, including vineyards. These are working, family farms.
- One of your best safety tools are your own eyes and ears. Don’t wear headphones.