I’ve shared before about taking Highway 16 on the way back from Clear Lake rather than the usual I-5 route. I’m fascinated by these hills and canyons and always so torn between the desire to get home and wanting to stop every mile or so along Cache Creek just to explore. I didn’t realize until later that I’d stopped at this same river access back in March 2021. I’m also including a couple of images from the area around Calistoga because I’d love to do more exploring there as well.

Oxalis in parking lot at the Petrified Forest

Oat Hill Mine Trail, Calistoga

I was really struggling to find a place to relax and eat my lunch near Calistoga after leaving the Petrified Forest. I paused here briefly but didn’t have time (or energy) to hike the trail, and the parking area offered no shade at all, so I shot a picture and moved on. The road sign below was visible from the driver’s seat, looking over my left shoulder.

I thought this sign seemed familiar! I’ve definitely been here before