Cavedale Rd - Glen Ellen to Napa

Cavedale Rd connects Glen Ellen (from Highway 12) to the high ridges above Napa, but this isn't just a collection of curves...

Local legend says Cavedale Rd was built on a foundation of "vice and virtue." In 1915, it wasn't funded by the state, but by a "private subscription" of local citizens.

While the official story is about connecting mountain ranches, the colorful local lore claims wealthy men funded the road to reach a high-class, secluded brothel hidden in the Mayacamas Mountains. Look for the stone monument at the base of the climb—it still lists the donors who paid to blast through the rock over a century ago.

The road got its name from a small cave used by workers to store dynamite while they literally carved the path out of volcanic stone.

Today, that same rugged terrain makes Cavedale Rd a technical masterpiece. It’s narrow, steep, and demanding—a true one-lane goat trail that rewards focus with panoramic views of the Sonoma Valley. Ride it downhill from Trinity Rd for amazing views of San Pablo & San Francisco Bay to the south.

For years, Cavedale was known as a battle against potholes and landslides. But here is the big news for the 2026 season: Following massive storm damage, the county finally completed an emergency repair project. The road has officially reopened with brand-new pavement at the major slide sites. The majority of Cavedale Rd has been repaved. Those sketchy, broken sections have been replaced with smooth black silk.

Take it slow, this road is single lane for the entire duration. And those views!

Riding it eastbound uphill to connect with Trinity Rd, bump into Napa County, peel off onto Mount Veeder Rd & drop into Napa. Highway 121 to Lake Berryessa is just up ahead.

https://www.pashnittours.com/coast-range