For one of the biggest, most spectacular views of Napa, head to Sonoma. That's right. Bald Mountain in Sugarloaf Ridge State Park offers worlds-away views that straddle two of the world's premier wine-growing valleys. On clear days, the peaks of the Sierra Nevadas glint on the horizon and Mount Saint Helena looks close enough to touch; below, the golden hills and green valleys of Napa and Sonoma roll away. Descend via the same route, or make a partial loop by dropping down Gray Pine Trail to a mostly canopied section that crosses a creek, dips through forests, and pops out onto an open ridge with broad views. On the drive back, toast your successful ascent with a stop at Kaz, the smallest—and quite possibly the friendliest—winery in Sonoma. (The winery closes at 5:00 p.m., so be sure to time your hike accordingly.) Richard "Kaz" Kasmier is the big guy at this family-run winery, which makes only 60 barrels of delicious organic wine a year. Buy one of their uniquely labeled bottles and Kaz will happily sign it for you.
With numerous stretches of exposed trail, this hike is best done in the milder temperatures of spring or fall. To reach Sugarloaf Ridge State Park: From Highway 12 in Sonoma Valley, go east on Adobe Canyon Rd. in Kenwood. Drive 3.5 miles to the park entrance. The trailhead is at the back of the left-side parking lot. Hike about 1 mile on Lower Bald Mountain Trail; continue up the paved Bald Mountain Trail for 1.5 miles. At the end of the pavement, turn right and continue on the Bald Mountain Trail. The trail curves around the summit; turn right on Gray Pine Trail and take a spur trail to the summit. Descend the way you came, or continue down the Gray Pine Trail .8 mile to Red Mountain Trail. Turn right and go about 1 mile to the Headwaters Trail; turn left. Go .5 mile to the Vista Trail; turn right. Go about .5 mile until it connects back with the Bald Mountain Trail. The park may not have maps; print one out beforehand here. Allow four to five hours for the hike. No dogs.
Kaz Vineyard & Winery, 233 Adobe Canyon Rd., Kenwood; 877-833-2536. Open Friday to Monday from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tastings are $5.