Palisades Trail
Hike rugged trails with stunning valley views, especially vibrant with wildflowers in season. Be prepared for sun exposure and ticks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom vibrantly
Palisades Trail
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom vibrantly
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike rugged trails with stunning valley views, especially vibrant with wildflowers in season. Be prepared for sun exposure and ticks.
"Gorgeous hike with magnificent views and interesting topography, but beware of ticks!"
🥾 Wear Hiking Boots
The trail surface is rugged. Hiking boots are recommended for better grip and ankle support, especially on descents.
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
Sections past the 2-mile mark have no tree canopy. Stay hydrated, especially on hot days.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Valley Views
Upper sections of the trail
Breathtaking vistas of Calistoga and the surrounding valleys, showcasing the unique andesite lava topography.
Wildflower Spectacle
Along the trail
A vibrant display of native wildflowers, painting the landscape with a rainbow of colors, especially during certain times of the year.
Rugged and Gentle Climb
Trail path
Experience an interesting and rugged terrain with a surprisingly gentle climb, making for a rewarding hiking challenge.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Tick Alert!
Sun Protection is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Hiking Boots
The trail surface is rugged. Hiking boots are recommended for better grip and ankle support, especially on descents.
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
Sections past the 2-mile mark have no tree canopy. Stay hydrated, especially on hot days.
☀️ Sun Protection Essential
Bring sunscreen, a hat, or wear long sleeves due to sun exposure on exposed sections.
🚫 Pack Out Dog Waste
Please be considerate and pick up after your pets. Don't leave bags on the trail.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Hiking Boots
The trail surface is rugged. Hiking boots are recommended for better grip and ankle support, especially on descents.
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
Sections past the 2-mile mark have no tree canopy. Stay hydrated, especially on hot days.
☀️ Sun Protection Essential
Bring sunscreen, a hat, or wear long sleeves due to sun exposure on exposed sections.
🚫 Pack Out Dog Waste
Please be considerate and pick up after your pets. Don't leave bags on the trail.
⚠️ Tick Awareness
Be vigilant about ticks, especially with pets. Check yourself and your animals thoroughly after your hike.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Palisades Trail for its gorgeous scenery, including magnificent valley and mountain views, and the beautiful display of native wildflowers. The rugged yet gentle terrain is also a highlight. However, a significant concern is the prevalence of ticks, with multiple reports of them on pets and even found at home after hikes. The lack of shade on exposed sections past the 2-mile mark also requires visitors to be well-prepared with sun protection and water.
"Very pretty easy trail. I am giving it 2 stars because of the ticks. There was a sign warning about them and we should have taken it seriously. We found them all over our pups (who were on leashes the whole time). We also found them in our closet the next day. Be careful if you want to enjoy this beautiful hike."
Sandi Lewis
"What a gorgeous hike with some magnificent views. The topography was so interesting consisting mostly of andesite lava. I recommend hiking shoes as there is a lot of climbing and I found hiking poles helped on the descent. Due to a late start we only hiked 6 miles round trip with 1150 feet of climbing. We hope to do more next time."
Lisa
"Great hike mostly up hill in the beginning. Beautiful views of Calistoga! Nice wild flowers 🌺"
Nora G
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Palisades Trail is located near Calistoga, California. Access points can vary, but it's generally reachable by car. Parking availability might be limited, especially during peak times.
Public transport options to trailheads can be limited in this region. It's recommended to check local transit schedules or consider ride-sharing services if you're not driving.
Using a GPS navigation app is advised. Search for 'Palisades Trail Calistoga' or specific trail access points mentioned in hiking guides.
Yes, there can be multiple access points. The Indian Trail entrance is a common starting point, and some sections are marked with numbers like EP26.
The drive to Palisades Trail offers scenic views of Napa Valley. Be prepared for winding roads as you approach the trailheads.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, access to Palisades Trail is free. However, it's always a good idea to check for any local park fees or permits that might be required, especially if it's part of a national recreation area.
Trails are typically open from dawn to dusk. It's best to confirm specific hours with the managing authority, as they can vary.
While many trails in the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area are free, some areas might have parking fees or require a pass. Check the official NPS website for the most current information.
Guided tours are not commonly advertised for Palisades Trail itself. However, local tour operators in the Napa Valley region might offer excursions that include hiking in the area.
Standard park rules apply, such as leash laws for dogs and regulations against littering. Be mindful of any fire restrictions, especially during dry seasons.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The trail offers a mix of difficulty. The beginning is mostly uphill, and the terrain can be rugged, but the climb is generally gentle.
The trail system offers various lengths. Hikers have reported going past the 4-mile marker, with some sections being about 1.3 miles one way to specific features.
Expect magnificent views of the valley and mountains, showcasing the unique andesite lava topography.
There is tree canopy on parts of the trail, but past the 2-mile marker, it becomes more exposed due to past fires.
While not the primary focus of this specific Palisades Trail, other locations with similar names are known for unique features like bamboo forests. 
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic valley and mountain views are prime photo opportunities. The wildflower displays in season also offer beautiful shots.
Late afternoon often provides beautiful golden hour light for landscape photography. Early mornings can also be stunning with soft light.
Drone usage is often restricted in national recreation areas and parks. Always check the specific regulations for the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. If you're interested in wildflowers, a macro lens can be useful.
While there isn't one single iconic landmark, the expansive vistas and the rugged, interesting terrain itself make for compelling photographic subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Crucially, families must be vigilant about ticks. Ensure children wear long pants and closed-toe shoes, and perform thorough tick checks after the hike. Bringing plenty of water and snacks is essential, especially since sections of the trail are exposed and can get hot. Consider hiking shorter distances to accommodate younger hikers' stamina.
🐶 Dog Owners
However, tick awareness is paramount for dog owners. Multiple reviews highlight the presence of ticks, and dogs can easily pick them up. Ensure your dog is up-to-date on flea and tick prevention, and be prepared for thorough checks immediately after your hike. Bringing extra water for your dog is also a good idea, especially on warmer days.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Terrain and Views
It's important to note that due to the LNU Lightning Complex fire in 2020, sections of the trail past the 2-mile mark are now largely exposed with no tree canopy. This means that while the views are expansive, sun protection and ample hydration are crucial, especially during warmer months. Hikers are advised to wear sturdy hiking boots due to the rugged surface, which provides good traction but can be uneven.
Despite the changes from the fire, the trail remains a popular choice for its scenic beauty and interesting geological features. The combination of challenging terrain and rewarding views makes it a memorable hike for those visiting the Calistoga area.
Seasonal Beauty and Wildlife
Beyond the flora, visitors should be aware of the local fauna, particularly the presence of ticks. A sign at the trailhead often warns of their existence, and hikers, especially those with pets, have reported encounters. It's highly recommended to take precautions such as wearing protective clothing, using insect repellent, and conducting thorough tick checks after your hike to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
While the trail is primarily known for its geological features and views, the surrounding natural environment supports a variety of wildlife. Being mindful of your surroundings and respecting the natural habitat will enhance your experience and contribute to the preservation of the area.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit