LAS POSADAS STATE FOREST
Las Posadas is great for bikers and skiers and is located 3 miles S.E. of Calistoga in Angwin. This trail system has everything a mountain biker could want. Shady single track through manzanita tunnels, smooth fast descents down the back side fire roads, lazy table tops, rock drops and beautiful views from Inspiration Point. Moderate climbs around the park offer more technical terrain, rock drops, log sections, whoop de doos and other obstacles as well. Lots of cool shade to keep it fun. Come explore this hidden jewel among the vineyards of the Napa Valley with us.
Las Posadas State Forest, also known as Las Posadas Demonstration State Forest, is located in the Mayacamas Mountains of Napa County, California. It has a rich history that dates back several centuries.
The forest's name "Las Posadas" can be traced back to the Mexican period in California's history. The term "Las Posadas" signifies the tradition of reenacting Joseph and Mary's search for a place to stay in Bethlehem, which is an important part of Mexican Christmas celebrations. The forest land was named after this tradition due to its remote and serene beauty, reminiscent of the biblical story.
In the early 19th century, during the Mexican era of California, Las Posadas State Forest was part of a land grant known as Rancho Las Posadas. The rancho was granted to Lieutenant Colonel Joseph Snook, a retired British naval officer, in 1843. Snook established a homestead on the land, primarily using it for agricultural purposes.
In the late 19th century, the land changed hands and Swiss immigrant Henry Hauschild purchased a significant portion of the area. Hauschild recognized the potential of the land for timber production and established a sawmill and logging operations in the forest. Over the years, logging activities increased in the area, leading to the clearing of substantial portions of the forest.
Concerns about deforestation and the need for sustainable forest management practices led to the establishment of the Las Posadas Demonstration State Forest in 1945. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) acquired the property and transformed it into a model forest for demonstrating responsible forest management techniques. It was the first forest in California designated as a "Demonstration Forest."
Since its establishment, Las Posadas State Forest has been focused on research, demonstration, and education. The forest serves as a living laboratory where scientists, landowners, students, and the general public can observe and learn about sustainable timber harvesting, forest ecology, fire management, and watershed protection. CAL FIRE has utilized various techniques like selective logging, reforestation, and prescribed burns to restore and maintain the forest's health and diversity.
Las Posadas State Forest covers around 3,340 acres and continues to provide valuable insights into the management of California's forests. It offers recreational opportunities such as hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, while also serving as an educational resource for sustainable forestry practices.
BBs / Inns
More than a BB - Aurora Park Cottages is your private vacation retreat at the top of Napa Valley. Located in a country setting in beautiful Calistoga - the spa capital of California. FREE CHAMPAGNE AND CHOCOLATES Please tell us you found us on www.stateparks.com and we'll have some chilled champagne and chocolates awaiting your arrival at Aurora Park Cottages.
9.6 miles from park*