The Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument does not have a central visitor center with specified hours. However, the Wolf Creek Visitor Center, which is part of the Mendocino National Forest adjacent to the monument, can provide information. For specific hours, check the Mendocino National Forest website or contact the Ukiah Field Office.
There is no entrance fee to visit Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument. However, some activities may require permits or campground fees.
From Clearlake, take Highway 20 north, embracing the wild Inner Coast Ranges, where ancient forests and scenic peaks await.
Parking is available at various trailheads and campgrounds. North Staging Area and campgrounds like Middle Creek and Penny Pines offer parking for cars, RVs up to 30 feet, and motorcycles. Overnight parking is allowed in some campgrounds with fees ranging from $5 to $8. No overnight parking at trailheads.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:None
In the heart of northern California’s wild Inner Coast Range, the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument unfolds as a tapestry of breathtaking diversity and natural beauty. Spanning 344,476 acres across Napa, Yolo, Solano, Lake, Colusa, Glenn, and Mendocino counties, this national monument is a realm where geologic forces have sculpted a landscape of staggering power.
From the remote forests of Snow Mountain, which rise to over 7,000 feet, to the scenic grandeur of Berryessa Peak, the monument is a mosaic of native grasslands, picturesque oak woodlands, rare wetlands, and wild chaparral. Here, the Cache Creek Wilderness and the Cedar Roughs Wilderness offer hiking trails that wind through steep canyons and ridge lines, providing expansive mountain views and opportune spots to observe the region’s endemic flora and fauna.
The area is an important migration corridor for wildlife, with many plants and animals adapting uniquely to the serpentine soils and fire-prone landscapes. Historical sites within the monument tell the story of Native American populations that have inhabited the region for over 11,000 years, alongside tales of homesteading, mining, logging, and farming.
For travelers, the monument offers a range of outdoor recreation, including hiking, mountain biking, legal OHV use, and horseback riding. The nearby Valley Vista Regional Park and Cache Creek Regional Park provide additional recreational opportunities. In the summer, the landscape comes alive with vibrant wildflower displays, while the autumn brings a palette of golden hues to the oak woodlands.
Nearby, the artisan town of Winters offers a charming haven for those seeking local craftsmanship and gourmet cuisine. For a deeper immersion, visitors can join ranger-led tours or participate in seasonal festivals that celebrate the region’s rich cultural and natural heritage. With its recent expansion to include the Molok Luyuk ridgeline, the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument stands as a compelling destination for affluent travelers seeking an unforgettable blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and cultural richness.
- Area (mi²)
- 517
- Established year
- 2015
Top 3 Facts about Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument
The area includes mountains that were once Jurassic seamounts, rising from the ocean floor but never reaching the surface, now standing over 7,000 feet tall after being pushed back to the Earth’s surface by tectonic plate movements.
In this rugged and diverse landscape, coniferous forests of Gray Pine and Ponderosa Pine give way to chaparral and rolling oak woodlands. Here, bald eagles soar, while black bears, river otters, and Tule elk roam freely. The higher elevations are home to northern spotted owls, marten, and fisher, and the waterways support California Coastal chinook salmon and Northern California steelhead. Springtime brings vibrant wildflowers like California poppies, lupines, and Indian paintbrush, painting the valleys and meadows with color. Rare serpentine plants cling to rocky mountainsides, adding to the unique flora of this biological hotspot.
Rising from near sea level to over 7,000 feet, this landscape is characterized by steep hills, dense chaparral, and rare serpentine plants clinging to rocky mountainsides. The area is home to bald eagles, golden eagles, and tule elk, with scenic oak woodlands and wild chaparral offering a mosaic of native biodiversity. The high-elevation regions boast some of California’s most biologically diverse areas, with cold temperatures contrasting the warmer valleys below.
Family programs
- Ranger-led Tours
- Self-guided Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Living History & Cultural Demos
- Scavenger Hunts
- Night Sky & Astronomy
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Water-based Adventures.
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan a few days in spring for wildflower viewing; arrive early, park at trailheads, and visit the visitor center. Anticipate rocky terrain, pack meals, and rest often. Enjoy the Pope to Putah trail during the California Poppy bloom.【 】
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for variable weather, sturdy hiking boots, and a multi-tool. Bring a tent, sleeping bag, and headlamp for overnight stays. Don’t forget a first-aid kit and plenty of water. Check the season for specific gear needs.
Respect Wildlife
Maintain a safe distance from wildlife, at least 25 yards, and stay on designated trails to protect delicate ecosystems. Travel quietly, minimizing noise and sudden movements, especially during sensitive seasons like mating or migration. Respect local habitats and leave no trace.
Stay Informed
Stay on marked trails, avoid ledges and fast water, and check weather conditions and fire restrictions. For emergencies, call 911 or park authorities at 707-562-8900. Exercise caution around wildlife and hot springs. Stay informed, stay safe.
Seasons
In spring, from March to May, with temperatures in the 60s-80s°F, witness vibrant wildflower blooms of California poppies, lupines, and Indian paintbrush. Ideal for hiking and wildlife spotting, this season is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, with mild weather and breathtaking views.
Summer brings warm temperatures (80s-90s°F) and dry conditions, ideal for hiking trails like the Berryessa Peak trail, though caution is advised on hot days. Observe free-roaming Tule elk seeking shade and water. No specific summer events, but perfect for kayaking on Cache Creek and exploring historic homesteads.
Experience autumn’s vibrant hues and mild temperatures (60s-70s°F) in this Northern California gem. Enjoy the annual Tuleyome Harvest Festival in October, amidst scenic wildflower displays, steep canyons, and expansive mountain views. Ideal for hiking, biking, and wildlife spotting.
Visit from December to February for crisp 40-60°F days, witnessing bald eagles soaring above rushing waters, and vibrant Christmas Berry shrubs against a muted winter landscape. Ideal for nature enthusiasts seeking serene, less crowded trails.
Where to stay
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The drive from Sacramento to Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument is just over two hours. This monument is within easy driving distance, making it accessible for residents of the Sacramento Metropolitan region.
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Dogs are allowed in this area, making it a unique wilderness space where they can accompany their owners. However, it’s important to be aware of the wildlife, including black bears, cougars, and elk. Keep your dog under control and be mindful of other visitors and wildlife.
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You can park an RV, camper, or motorhome at several campgrounds and dispersed sites. Larger RVs, including Class A and Class C, can be accommodated at sites like those in the Fouts Springs area, while smaller campervans and trailers can also find suitable spots. However, some roads and sites may be closed due to weather or maintenance.
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Hike to Berryessa Peak or Snow Mountain for panoramic views of Lake Berryessa, Cobb Mountain, and the Capay Valley. Explore Annie’s Trail and Annie’s Rock for stunning vistas and a unique rock formation. Enjoy activities like fishing, whitewater rafting, or kayaking in Cache Creek, and observe diverse wildlife including bald eagles and river otters.