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Alston Park Loop

Hiking trails & Routes

Alston Park Loop

Easy

4.6

(7338)

9,832

hikers

Alston Park Loop

Q: Where can I park for the Alston Park Loop trail?

Free parking is available directly at the trailhead of Alston Park. You'll find a designated parking area for visitors.

Q: Is the Alston Park Loop dog-friendly?

Yes, the trail is very dog-friendly. Dogs are permitted on-leash throughout the park, and there's a large designated off-leash area known as the 'Canine Commons' that is very popular.

Q: What is the best time of year to hike the Alston Park Loop?

Spring is highly recommended for hiking this trail. During this season, the park bursts with plum blossoms and a variety of wildflowers, and the temperatures are generally pleasant. Summer hikes can be very hot due to limited shade.

Q: Are there any fees or permits required to hike in Alston Park?

No, there are no entrance fees or permits required to access Alston Park or hike its trails.

Q: Is the Alston Park Loop suitable for beginners or families?

Yes, the trail is generally considered an easy hike, suitable for all skill levels, including beginners and families. Its mostly packed dirt paths and gently rolling hills make it a manageable and enjoyable outing.

Q: What is the terrain like on the Alston Park Loop?

The terrain primarily consists of dirt paths and fire roads, mostly packed dirt with some smaller rocks. While some sections can be steep, the overall terrain features gently rolling hills. Hiking boots are not strictly necessary due to the packed dirt surface.

Q: What kind of scenery and views can I expect on the trail?

You'll encounter diverse scenery, including oak-dotted grasslands, wildflower-covered meadows (especially in spring), and an old plum orchard. The trail offers stunning panoramic views of the city of Napa, the surrounding Napa Valley, and the Vaca Mountains. Vineyards are often visible along the park's boundaries.

Q: Is there much shade on the Alston Park Loop?

Shade is very limited on this trail, especially during the warmer months. It's advisable to plan your hike for cooler parts of the day or during spring when temperatures are milder.

Q: Are there facilities like restrooms or water available at Alston Park?

Yes, a portable toilet and drinking water are available at the trailhead for your convenience.

Q: What should I bring for a hike on the Alston Park Loop?

Given the limited shade, it's essential to bring plenty of water, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and comfortable walking shoes. If hiking in spring, a camera for wildflowers is a good idea.

01:12

4.45km

50m

Hiking

Discover the gentle beauty of the Alston Park Loop, an easy 2.8-mile (4.4 km) hike that winds through rolling hills, oak-dotted grasslands, and old plum orchards. You'll be treated to expansive views of the Napa Valley and the Vaca Mountains, with the landscape transforming beautifully with spring wildflowers and late April plum blossoms. The trail's manageable 180 feet (55 metres) of elevation gain makes it a perfect choice for a leisurely outing, typically completed in about 1 hour and 11 minutes.

Planning your visit to Alston Park is straightforward, though spring is arguably the best season to hike Alston Park Loop for its vibrant floral displays. Early mornings offer the added spectacle of hot air balloons drifting over the valley. Parking is available at the trailhead, and while no permits are required, it's always wise to arrive early during peak times. Dogs are welcome, with specific Alston Park dog friendly rules: off-leash in the Canine Commons, but leashed elsewhere.

Alston Park stands out as a multi-use trail haven, popular not just with hikers but also equestrians and mountain bikers. Beyond its scenic viewpoints, the park is a significant habitat for resident and migratory birds, with bluebird and barn owl boxes installed throughout. This makes it an excellent spot for wildlife observation, adding another layer to its appeal as a family-friendly outdoor escape in the heart of Napa.

Last updated: June 9, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

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4.45 km

End point

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

4.25 km

171 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

4.41 km

< 100 m

Elevation

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Weather

Today

Thursday 2 July

24°C

9°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 14.0 km/h

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I park for the Alston Park Loop trail?

Free parking is available directly at the trailhead of Alston Park. You'll find a designated parking area for visitors.

Is the Alston Park Loop dog-friendly?

Yes, the trail is very dog-friendly. Dogs are permitted on-leash throughout the park, and there's a large designated off-leash area known as the 'Canine Commons' that is very popular.

What is the best time of year to hike the Alston Park Loop?

Spring is highly recommended for hiking this trail. During this season, the park bursts with plum blossoms and a variety of wildflowers, and the temperatures are generally pleasant. Summer hikes can be very hot due to limited shade.

Are there any fees or permits required to hike in Alston Park?

No, there are no entrance fees or permits required to access Alston Park or hike its trails.

Is the Alston Park Loop suitable for beginners or families?

Yes, the trail is generally considered an easy hike, suitable for all skill levels, including beginners and families. Its mostly packed dirt paths and gently rolling hills make it a manageable and enjoyable outing.

What is the terrain like on the Alston Park Loop?

The terrain primarily consists of dirt paths and fire roads, mostly packed dirt with some smaller rocks. While some sections can be steep, the overall terrain features gently rolling hills. Hiking boots are not strictly necessary due to the packed dirt surface.

What kind of scenery and views can I expect on the trail?

You'll encounter diverse scenery, including oak-dotted grasslands, wildflower-covered meadows (especially in spring), and an old plum orchard. The trail offers stunning panoramic views of the city of Napa, the surrounding Napa Valley, and the Vaca Mountains. Vineyards are often visible along the park's boundaries.

Is there much shade on the Alston Park Loop?

Shade is very limited on this trail, especially during the warmer months. It's advisable to plan your hike for cooler parts of the day or during spring when temperatures are milder.

Are there facilities like restrooms or water available at Alston Park?

Yes, a portable toilet and drinking water are available at the trailhead for your convenience.

What should I bring for a hike on the Alston Park Loop?

Given the limited shade, it's essential to bring plenty of water, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and comfortable walking shoes. If hiking in spring, a camera for wildflowers is a good idea.

Is the Alston Park Loop a loop trail?

Yes, as its name suggests, the Alston Park Loop is a loop trail, meaning you'll end up back at your starting point without having to retrace your steps.