The Silverado Trail is a scenic route located in the Napa Valley region of California, United States. It runs parallel to Highway 29 and offers an alternate route to this busy highway. The trail was established in the mid-19th century and used initially as a route for cabs hauling quicksilver from cinnabar mines in the northern part of the valley to San Francisco.
The Silverado Trail is approximately 29 miles long and stretches from Napa in the south to Calistoga in the north. This roadway provides picturesque views of vineyards, rolling hills, and the Napa Valley itself. It's also less commercial than Highway 29, so if you're looking for a quieter, more relaxed drive, this is the route to take.
Dozens of top wineries and restaurants are located along or off the Silverado Trail. These include prestigious names such as Joseph Phelps Vineyards, ZD Wines, and Mumm Napa, along with culinary destinations like The French Laundry and Bouchon Bistro.
It's perfect for bicycling as there is a long and winding bike lane along most of the trail. It is a famous road among runners, too; for example, the Napa Valley Marathon follows this route.
The Silverado Trail is a beautiful and calm passage through the heart of Napa Valley, offering a less hectic, yet equally rewarding, alternative to the often busy Highway 29.