Welcome Back Bartholomew

Hike a Winery Trail in Sonoma

Locals call it Bart Park, but the distinguished nature of this beautiful 400 acres tucked just a few miles east of Sonoma’s historic plaza beckons an official callout: Bartholomew Park is a beauty.

Thank the Frank H. Bartholomew Foundation (a private nonprofit) for reopening the park’s beautiful hiking trails after repairing damage from the 2017 wildfires. Also new, the property’s winery, reimagined, revamped, and featuring tasty organic wines in a historic building hosting a rotating exhibit of plein air art. But before the wine, do the hike!

Hiking at Bartholomew Park Winery in Sonoma

We recommend a 3-miler starting at the South Gate Trailhead, where you’ll find a sign with a trail map. Begin hiking on the You-Walk Miwok Trail, winding next to a stream and climbing among madrones and oaks to beautiful views of the valley and vineyards.

Hiking at Bartholomew Park Winery in Sonoma

Benches are set in perfect spots overlooking the scenery. The trail is rugged in parts, and built-in stairs help take you higher, to Benicia’s Lake, an oasis festooned in redwoods. The Grape Stomp Trail takes you back to the vineyard property as you exit via the North Gate.

BONUS WINE: Now it’s time to relax and “unwined” at Bartholomew Estate Winery. Plan ahead and book a tasting on the Oak Knoll, or purchase a glass or bottle and bring a picnic to enjoy in the park’s charming wine garden (open to all).

Sunset at Bartholomew Park Winery in Sonoma Valley

SUNSET TIP: For a sunset to remember, linger a little longer at the picnic area near the Oak Knoll and overlooking the vineyard. The sun sinking across the horizon is truly sublime at Bartholomew Park. Wait for it, wait for it … now glow

Dog-friendly!

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Taking the Stage: Tyler Ranch

    Hike the recently opened Tyler Ranch Staging Area in Pleasanton Ridge Regional Park, with 18 miles of new trails. This 6.5-mile loop up Sunol Peak is a challenge and rewards with exceptional views of seasonal iridescent hills.

    View
  2. A woman stands at Dante's View in Death Valley, looking out to Telescope Peak and Manly Lake, Badwater Basin below.

    Sunset Hike (and Manly Lake Vista!) at Dante's View

    It’s one of the world’s best places to watch a sunset. Dante’s View is a 5,476-foot vantage of the whole southern basin of Death Valley from the top of the Black Mountains. On clear days you get views of both the highest and lowest points in the contiguous U.S. 

    View
  3. Swing into Spring

    Swing into this 7.1-mile hike in the hills of Half Moon Bay! It’s got gorgeous views, fields of spring wildflowers, and a hidden rustic tree swing.

    View
  4. The Carson Show

    Carson Falls is ready for primetime. This three-tiered, 100-foot stunner is hidden back in a canyon outside of Fairfax and reached on a 3.25-mile (round-trip) hike.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Lava Lava

    Once a land of volcanic activity, Mojave National Preserve shares plenty about its past via a quick yet adventurous hike to the Lava Tube in the Cima Dome Volcanic Field.

    View
  2. Kelso Dunes

    The hike to the top of Kelso Dunes in the Mojave National Preserve is only 3 miles (out and back), but you’ll feel like you’ve hiked much farther by the time you’re done.

    View
  3. William Kenyon Overlook

    Some of the best vistas of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park are easily accessible via a short and sweet 1.25-mile (round-trip) hike just off the CA-78. Enter your next favorite desert viewpoint: the William Kenyon Overlook.

    View
  4. Beaudry Bountiful

    There are no cars allowed on Beaudry Loop, but this 6-mile hike takes you on a wild ride. You’ll be climbing 1,500 feet up the southern Verdugos along a chaparral-lined trail with gorgeous mountain and urban vistas every step of the way.

    View