Whoop De Dogs Flat Loop Trail

The "Whoop De Dogs" or "Whoop De Doos" Loop Trail in the Napa Valley begins at the Las Posadas Trailhead, where you can find a number of additional spur trails and loops to add to your route. The land the trail winds through and provides unique views of Howell Mountain, the Napa Valley, and the Las Posadas National Forest.

Starting from the trailhead, hike 0.1 miles to the place where the Main St and Mossy Rock trails meet. The trail leading off to the right is the continuation of the Whoop De Dogs Trail. After 0.6 miles, you will head into the loop portion, which circles around for under half a mile, and then reconnects with the portion of the trail you came in on. There are at least 10 trails that lead off from the Whoop De Dogs Trail, making this a highly customizable hike.

This trail's primary draw is its fauna. The rich forest is home to a wide range of tree species including Douglas fir, gray pine, live oaks, manzanita, and madrones. Majestic California redwoods tower high above their other arboreal cousins. In the deep shade they provide, ruddy pine needles and fallen oak leaves carpet the forest floor. 

In the wildflower-laced meadows outside of the forest, tall grasses rustle in the breeze. At higher altitudes, meadows yield expansive views of the fertile lands beyond. On these outskirts, you'll also sometimes find groves of live oaks draped with moss. There's wildlife here, too: you might see a covey of quail dart across the path or hear the yipping of a pack of coyotes.

This trail is named for large bumps that daring cyclists use to catch some air. Expect to see people on mountain bikes here, as well as people on horseback, but it is also popular with dogs. The trail system is complex and you may end up taking one of a number of routes depending on how well you're able to navigate using the information at the trailhead and the signs you'll encounter posted on trees along the way. Some of the trails follow wide fire roads, while others are singletrack. For the adventurous hiker, figuring out the route as you go will be part of the fun. A day spent in this rich landscape with your dog will send you home with memories of beautiful sights that took you by surprise.