Northern California is known for many things, but two of the best features we have are our world-famous wineries and our beautiful waterfalls. If you’ve been wanting to explore the vineyards and get outdoors more, this is the right road trip for you. Over four days, you’ll get to check out some of the best natural wonders and one-of-a-kind wine this region has to offer.
The itinerary is full of amazing places to go, and all of the driving will definitely be worth it once you see what awaits you. Because the trip includes multiple days and wine tastings, we’ve chosen some great Best Western hotels in Northern California for you to stay the night comfortably and safely. Ready for an unforgettable road trip in Northern California? Let’s go!
1. Sequoia Grove Winery
Sequoia Grove Winery, 8338 St Helena Hwy, Napa, CA 94558, USA
Our road trip in Northern California begins in the heart of Napa Valley. You’ll feel welcomed right into Sequoia Grove Winery. It is family-owned and you’ll feel it in their lovely atmosphere. The 24-acre vineyard is both spacious and beautiful. Cabernet Sauvignon is their specialty, so be sure to give it a try!
2. Trefethen Family Vineyards
Trefethen Family Vineyards, 1160 Oak Knoll Ave, Napa, CA 94558, USA
Trefethen Family Vineyards is another family-owned estate winery found in Napa Valley. Surrounded by oak trees, it’s an idyllic place you will quickly fall in love with. It was built in 1886, and is on the National Register of Historic Places. If you’re looking for a refreshing glass of rosé to complement the beautiful weather day, this is the perfect place for you.
After your day of wine tastings, you can stay the night at the Best Western Plus Inn At The Vines, which is conveniently located along the route.
Located in Los Posadas State Forest, the Linda Falls Trail is a 1.3 mile-long trail that will give you a bit of a challenge, but won’t be too strenuous. It’s a quick walk and will only take you about half an hour. It’s one of the fastest ways to get to see a gorgeous waterfall!
Next, head to Zim Zim Falls. It is found in the Knoxville Wildlife Area and is a long walk. While you can definitely make the whole trek, you don’t have to do the full 10.5 miles to enjoy the views. You’ll love any part of the trail you get to experience, and if you do decide to walk the entire Zim Zim Falls Big Loop, it should take you a little over four and a half hours.
Your final stop of the day is a magnificent winery that you will definitely want to photograph! St. Francis Winery & Vineyards is a Certified Sustainable winery in Sonoma County, and it's the best place to end the day. For the full experience, go to the tasting room to enjoy pairings with fresh and tasty farm-to-table food. After plenty of exercise earlier in the day, you will have earned the right to indulge! And the best part of all? It's dog-friendly!
This 3.3-mile-long trail will take you on a scenic journey through Hidden Falls Regional Park. The hike will take about an hour and a half to complete, and every minute is full of beauty! You’ll feel like you’re the first to discover the aptly-named Hidden Falls.
Nestled in Butte County and surrounded by lush trees and greenery, Feather Falls really is a special treat. It can get a bit steep from time to time on the hike, but you’ll have a couple of different options for length. If you take the long way, the trip will be approximately 8 miles. Keep an eye out for beautiful wildflowers and an ear out for melodic bird songs. For an immersive experience in nature, this trail is hard to beat!
8. Long Creek Winery and Ranch
Long Creek Winery and Ranch, 323 Ward Blvd, Oroville, CA 95966, USA
Long Creek Winery and Ranch is the ideal place to end your day after getting tons of steps in. Try a tasting flight of six different wines to find your new favorites. Then buy those unique bottles that you can only find here and bring them home! You can also take a self-guided tour of the ranch if you want to learn more.
Burney Falls Loop Trail is a nice and easy one-mile-long loop. It will only take you about half an hour to walk, but it will be one amazing 30 minutes! The waterfall itself is breathtaking, so be sure to take plenty of time to admire it.
Potem Falls Trail is the perfect peaceful and picturesque hike to finish off your trip through the waterfalls and wineries of Northern California. At 0.6 miles in length, this trail is a great way to feel completely enveloped in nature, even for a short while.
What did you think was the best part of this multi-day road trip in Northern California? Did you find a new favorite wine? We’d love to hear about your experience, so tell us all about it in the comments. And when you’re looking for a nice place to stay, check out Best Western hotels in Northern California.