Stebbins Cold Canyon Reserve at Lake Berryessa is a great half-day hike close to wine country and UC Davis. The prominence of Blue Ridge allows you to look down at most of Lake Berryessa. A beautiful drive on 128 makes for a pleasant approach. There is easy trail head parking and the trail is well maintained, but there is lots of poison oak. Learn about the history of this place to fully appreciate your visit.

UPDATED 3/11/12: Added pictures + contrast of spring and summer from the top.

Basic Info:

• 4.75 mile loop
• Old homestead
• Sweeping views of Lake Berryessa
• Easy to moderate hike
• Part of the University of California Natural Reserve System
• Davis wiki page
• Lots of poison oak, everywhere!

Stebbins Cold Canyon Reserve – Lake Berryessa at EveryTrail

Note the difference in the color of the hillside. Spring is an excellent time to hike this trail.

Lake Berryessa, August

Lake Berryessa, March

The trailhead lies near the base of Monticello Dam, and what has been nicknamed, “The Glory Hole.” It will be right before the Yolo and Napa County line on 128 if you’re coming from Napa, or right after if you’re coming from Davis. There is parking available at the trailhead. I started up the Homestead Path which follows a river bed (dry in summer, full in spring) instead of the much steeper end of Blue Ridge. I would recommend this as a nice warm-up, or go the opposite way as quick and shorter blast to the top and back down the same way. The Blue Ridge end has a deer crossing sign.

A bit more than a mile in is a cellar to the old homestead, which acted as a cold storage room for goat cheese. There is a lot of fascinating history behind this site told in greater detail on the UC Davis website. After leaving the homestead, the trail starts to ascend up to Blue Ridge. After you’ve cleared the first high point you’ll have an amazing view of Lake Berryessa, and the striking color of its water.

Tip: You may want to take a dip after your hike in the summer, but expect a clay bottom, boat traffic, and some trash along the access points on 128. Bring a towel to sit on and a bottle of wine.