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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

Easy 2.8-mile loop through oak-dotted grasslands and wildflower meadows, offering panoramic views of Napa Valley.

Last updated: February 26, 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

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Today

Thursday 7 May

22°C

10°C

0 %

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Max wind speed: 12.0 km/h

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This route was planned by komoot.

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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.