Lake Berryessa, only 45 minutes away from beautiful Napa Valley wine country, is nestled between the Blue Ridge and Cedar Roughs and a popular spot for houseboat getaways in California.
Stop and smell the grapes in nearby Napa at one of the several wineries that line the Silverado Trail and Highway 29. Or play a round of golf at Chardonnay Golf Club, which consists of three different 9-hole golf courses, dubbed the Lakes, Meadows, and Vineyard courses that spread over 150 acres of breathtaking landscape.
Glory Hole, near the Monticello Dam, is a sight that is not to be missed. Glory Hole is the largest morning glory spillway in the world, narrowing from 72 feet to 28 feet in diameter! In high water, water spills into the funnel rather than over the dam, and exits on the south side of the dam. It cannot be approached by boat or swimmers for obvious dangers, but it can be accessed from the top of the Monticello Dam parking lot, or you can hike to the Spillway Overlook on the Stebbins Cold Canyon trail.
While you're out on the water, take to "the Narrows" for some thrills on your waterskis, wakeboard, or tube. Or perhaps slow down the pace a little and explore by kayak. The Narrows are also known for some great hiking trails. Pull your kayak up to the Monticello Overlook trail access, and head up the incline about two miles to be rewarded by an impressive view of the Monticello Dam. Or head up the Putah Creek Arm at the northwestern end of the lake and take the "Pope to Putah" trail which leads to a ridge on the western side, providing spectacular views. You may see some wildlife along the way: deer, coyote, bobcat, fox, and racoons are in the area.There are also many bird species to spot, including: pelican, kinglets, eagles, osprey, hawks, blue heron, snow geese and loons.
Drop a fishing line anywhere! Both cold and warm water fish species inhabit the Berryessa waters, including: Bass (largemouth, smallmouth, striped, white and spotted), Trout (rainbow and brown), Crappie, Catfish, Walleye and Bluegill. King Salmon can also be found around the dam and in Markley Cove. A California state fishing license is required; be sure to pick one up at the marina or online in advance.
Folks come from near and far to visit Lake Berryessa again and again for its unique beauty. What will your reason be?