Putah Creek Wildlife and Wilderness Area

I'm always in search of new adventures, both big and small, local and further away, and while living in Napa, Putah Creek and Lake Berryessa, in a remote pocket of Napa Counties' Eastern side, just west of Winters, is a delightful spring paradise of hiking that makes a good day (or half) trip. Managed by the University of Davis, this small wilderness is home to a colorful display of wildflowers, wildlife, rugged topography, small waterfalls, inviting creeks, stunning views, and a challenging network of trails climbing up and down ridges, offering a 5-mile loop to enjoy the bulk of it; however, there are many side trails that one (including myself), can wile away a day with. This hike would be much too hot in summer, but it made for a perfect early season hike, all the better for the seasonal spring wildflowers as well as milder temperatures. If you feel like staying, there is a small motel, resort, RV park and some camping at the base of the trails, offering handmade pizzas and a small store (that needed to be stocked with more natural/organic products for my shopping taste). Happy hiking!