Permanent Preserve
The Dunn-Wildlake Preserve, is a remarkable conservation area encompassing 3,030 acres of diverse ecosystems, including rocky outcrops, pine and Douglas fir forests, oak woodlands, and chaparral.
Situated along the Howell Mountain plateau between Calistoga and Angwin, this preserve safeguards critical natural resources and offers breathtaking vistas of Napa County.
Ecological Significance
Dunn-Wildlake Ranch Preserve is a sanctuary for a wide array of plant and animal species:
- Diverse Habitats: The preserve features four miles of ridgeline, providing varied habitats that support a rich biodiversity.
- Water Resources: It encompasses the headwaters of Bell Canyon Creek, a vital source of water for the City of St. Helena.
- Flora and Fauna: Home to at least 365 native plant species, including stands of McNab cypress, Douglas fir, and redwoods, as well as the endangered Cobb Mountain lupine. Wildlife such as black bears, deer, coyotes, and mountain lions inhabit the area.
Conservation History
Acquired in 2006, the preservation of Dunn-Wildlake Ranch was a monumental achievement for the Land Trust:
- Community Support: The acquisition was made possible through a $5 million contribution from Napa Valley winemaker Randy Dunn, alongside funding from the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, the California Coastal Conservancy, and the David and Lucile Packard Foundation.
- Strategic Importance: This conservation effort prevented potential development, preserving the natural landscape and ensuring the protection of critical wildlife habitats and water resources.
Public Access and Recreation
The Land Trust has been hosting public access orientation sessions for our Dunn-Wildlake Preserve since June 2013. Visit our Hikes and Events page to sign up for an orientation or guided hike with the Land Trust.
- Guided Hikes: Portions of Dunn-Wildlake are accessible through Land Trust guided hikes. Self-guided access is available to those who complete a Land Trust orientation and receive access permission.
- Stunning Vistas: Trails ascend to some of the highest points of the Howell Mountain Plateau, offering spectacular views that, on clear days, extend to the San Francisco Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge.
Commercial Use is prohibited on all LTNC properties.
Please Note: For our community’s and natural resources’ safety, all Land Trust preserves are closed to visitors during red flag warnings, fire weather watches, or extreme fire behavior warnings issued by the National Weather Service. Please check the latest weather reports before your visit.
Conservation and Stewardship Efforts
The Land Trust actively manages the Preserve to protect and preserve its ecological integrity. Efforts include habitat restoration, invasive species management, and ongoing monitoring of plant and animal populations. As stewards of Dunn-Wildlake Preserve, the Land Trust is committed to continuing:
- Research and Monitoring: Conducting ongoing studies to monitor the health of ecosystems and the success of restoration efforts.
- Habitat Restoration: Implementing projects to maintain and enhance the ecological health of the preserve.
- Invasive Species Management: Controlling invasive species to protect native plant communities.
- Forest Health and Fuels Reduction: Managing forests to reduce future wildfire severity, increase native tree diversity, protect native understory plant communities, and maximize wildlife habitat values
Learn more about our ongoing stewardship efforts including habitat restoration on our blog.
