The hike on the Smittle Creek Trail is an easy rolling hill hike along the shores of Lake Berryessa, but it really isn’t that impressive. I hiked it in the fall, but it may come alive in the spring when the hills are green and wildflowers are in bloom. I’m told this trail is popular with birdwatchers. I’m not knocking this trail… it has its place, and viewed in context, it makes for a pleasant Sunday stroll with a picnic by the lake.
We were treated to four beavers that swam by us, and one of them carried a fish in its mouth as they swam past. That was a treat to see, but we did not see any other wildlife. We saw plenty of deer and racoon tracks, and there were several different kinds of waterfowl on the lake. Once in the winter I did see a bald eagle take off from a tree I hiked under and watched it fly around the lake. That was a sight to see.
There are markers along the trail, and if you take a laminated pamphlet provided at either end of the trailhead, you can stop at the markers and read about the features along the trail, such as the various types of tree and plant life along the way. Place the pamphlet in the container when you reach the end of the trail so others may use it. They are not to keep.
Directions: From Winters, head west on Highway 128 and after approximately 20 miles, turn right on Berryessa Knoxville Road. Travel 7.3 miles to the Oak Shores Day Use Area. Once you’ve pulled off the main road, follow the signs to Coyote Knolls.
The Skinny
Trail: Smittle Creek Trail
Trailhead Coordinates: 38.567346, -122.237512
Trailhead Elevation: 465 Feet
Distance: 5.7 Miles – Out and Back
Level of Difficulty: 🟡
Average Grade: .1%
Steepest Grade: 5.6% for .2 Miles; 10.3% over 377 feet
Ascension: 722 Feet
Trail Condition: 🟢🟢🟢🟢
Scenery: 🟢🟢
Nearest Town: Winters
Challenges: High Temperatures
Traffic: 🥾 on Weekdays, 🥾🥾 on Weekends
Highlights: Views, Wildflowers
Best Time: Spring
Hazards: Heat
Wildlife Concerns: Mountain Lions, Rattlesnakes
Cell Service: 📱 (AT&T)
Would I do this this hike again?: Probably not
Parking: $5
Restrooms: In the parking lots the trail runs by