Explore Napa Valley
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Photo courtesy of Brian Welsh -
Photo courtesy of Brian Welsh -
Photo courtesy of Brian Welsh
Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park
Type: Historic Sites, Sightseeing
10Best Says
This out of ordinary state park is home to partially restored 36-foot water wheel and grist mill that was built in 1846. Back in the day it was where Napa Valley settlers came to have their corn and... Read More
This out of ordinary state park is home to partially restored 36-foot water wheel and grist mill that was built in 1846. Back in the day it was where Napa Valley settlers came to have their corn and wheat ground into meal or flour. Owned by Dr. Edward Turner Bale, the mill was used until the early 1900s. Today, milling demonstrations and historic tours are offered every weekend, and select Monday holidays including July 4th and Memorial Day. Bale Grist Mill offers a long list of milled goods including spelt, buckwheat, rye, polenta, cornmeal, and whole-wheat flours. All are organic and stone ground in the mill.
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EXPERT TIPS BY:
Dana Rebmann
Napa Valley Local Expert
- Sightseeing: "Pack a picnic, and sit at one of the tables on the grass near the waterwheel."
- Best Attractions & Activities: "Grab goodies from Oxbow Public Market or Dean & DeLuca in St. Helena and have lunch under a shady tree or at one of the many picnic tables."
- Best for Sightseeing Because: Bale Grist Mill is one of the country's largest waterwheels. Still milling the old-fashioned way, visitors can take home milled goods for a donation.
- Recommended as Best Attractions & Activities Because: Have you ever seen a water-powered mill in action? It's a fun and rare glimpse back in time.
