Perkins-Creek Ridge Trail in Clearlake Oaks is a solid five-mile hike that climbs steadily through Lake County’s wine country terrain. You’ll access it from the Redbud Trail, and the payoff for that uphill work is genuine—the views open up across the surrounding landscape in a way that makes the effort feel worthwhile. The path is well-maintained with good footing for most of the route, and the mix of vegetation keeps things visually interesting as you gain elevation.

Dogs need to stay leashed the entire time, which is important to know before you start. The moderate difficulty works well for different fitness levels—you’re not scrambling over rocks or navigating technical sections, but it’s definitely more than a casual walk. Bring water for both you and your dog since there aren’t reliable water sources along the way, and the exposure increases as you climb.

The real draw here is how the trail delivers that sense of accomplishment without being brutally steep. You’ll notice wildlife in the area as you hike, and there’s enough shade from the scattered trees that even on warmer days it’s manageable. The trail’s steadiness means you’re not dealing with sudden switchbacks or confusing junctions—it’s straightforward to follow.

Clearlake Oaks sits in a quieter corner of Lake County compared to the busier wine tasting areas, so the trail tends to be less crowded than popular hikes closer to the coast. That said, it can still draw a decent crowd on weekends, especially during shoulder seasons when temperatures are comfortable. Start early if you prefer a quieter experience. The official trail website has maps worth downloading before you head out, since cell service can be spotty once you’re fully engaged with the climb.