The best walks and hikes around Chico

The Chico Canyon Road and Old Homestead trail offers a delightful journey through Upper Bidwell Park, blending natural beauty with historical intrigue. You'll traverse multi-use dirt and gravel roads, winding through rolling hills and forested areas, often alongside Chico Creek. The route's highlight is discovering the Old Simmon's homestead, where you can find remnants like a chicken coop and a picnic bench under an old persimmon tree, marking the site of the original cabin. In spring, the hillsides burst with green grass and vibrant wildflowers, providing expansive views across the park.

This easy 3.6-mile (5.7 km) hike involves a gentle 300 feet (91 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 1 hour and 41 minutes to complete. While generally accessible, some sections can become rough after wet weather, so wear appropriate footwear. The trail is multi-use, shared with mountain bikers and trail runners. For the best experience, consider visiting in late March or early April to catch the peak wildflower season.

Beyond its scenic beauty, the trail offers a glimpse into the region's past, as the Old Simmon's homestead was once part of the privately owned Simmons Ranch before its acquisition expanded Upper Bidwell Park. If you're lucky, especially after significant rainfall, you might even spot Lovejoy Falls, a hidden gem with a nearly 51-foot drop into the lush canyon. This trail is a fantastic option for beginner hiking trails in the Chico Canyon area, offering a rich experience for its modest effort.

The Horseshoe Lake at Bidwell Park offers a delightful, easy hike that winds through varied terrain, from flat riparian areas to the fringes of the foothills. You will enjoy views of Big Chico Creek and the tranquil Horseshoe Lake, which, despite its name, feels more like a scenic pond. The paths are generally wide and shaded, perfect for a relaxing stroll, and in spring, the area comes alive with vibrant wildflowers. Keep an eye out for ducks, waterfowl, and raptors, as this area is a crucial wildlife corridor.

Planning your visit to Horseshoe Lake is straightforward, as many of the trails are easily accessible and family-friendly. The area is popular for dog walks and peaceful outings, with an ADA-accessible fishing pier available. While the 0.8-mile (1.4 km) loop with only 24 feet (7 metres) of elevation gain can be completed in about 21 minutes, it also serves as a convenient starting point for more challenging hikes deeper into Upper Bidwell Park. Consider visiting during the golden hour for popular sunset photography opportunities.

Horseshoe Lake is a significant destination within Middle Bidwell Park, known for its accessible trails and as a hub for outdoor activities. The surrounding landscape features prominent rock formations like the 3-million-year-old Tuscan Formation cliffs, adding a unique geological element to your hike. Beyond the trails, the Chico Community Observatory is nearby, offering evening programs on select nights, making this area a blend of natural beauty and community engagement.

The Yahi and Annie Bidwell Trail Loop in Upper Bidwell Park offers a delightful journey through varied terrain alongside Big Chico Creek. You'll experience the peaceful, shaded Yahi Trail with its lush sycamores, contrasting with the slightly more rugged Annie Bidwell Trail, which features impressive Lovejoy Basalt formations and golden grassy hills. Keep an eye out for abundant wildflowers, especially in late March and summer, and enjoy picturesque spots like Bear Hole for a break by the water.

This 3.9-mile (6.3 km) hiking route is rated easy, with a gentle 172 feet (52 metres) of elevation gain, and takes approximately 1 hour and 38 minutes to complete. It's accessible year-round, but if you plan to cross the creek, be aware that it can be dangerous or impassable after heavy rains, particularly in winter and spring. The trail is family-friendly and offers numerous spots for picnics.

This loop winds through Upper Bidwell Park, one of the largest municipal parks in the country, offering a diverse natural experience. The Yahi Trail is pedestrian-only, providing a tranquil atmosphere, while the Annie Bidwell Trail is multi-use, shared with mountain bikers and runners. It's a fantastic option for beginners or anyone looking for a scenic, low-effort outing with plenty of natural beauty.

If you're looking for a hike that showcases the best of Upper Bidwell Park, the North Rim, B Trail, and Middle Trail Loop is a fantastic choice. This 9.9-mile (16.0 km) moderate loop takes about 4 hours and 27 minutes to complete, offering a journey through varied landscapes. You'll experience rocky climbs on the North Rim Trail with expansive views of the Sacramento Valley, then descend through winding paths on the B Trail, and finally navigate the rolling terrain of the Middle Trail, passing through areas dotted with valley oaks and manzanita trees.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is accessible year-round. However, for the most vibrant scenery, aim for spring when the hills are lush and wildflowers bloom. Be prepared for sun exposure on the North Rim Trail, as it offers little shade, so pack water and sun protection. While the B Trail is popular with mountain bikers, the intersections are generally marked, and dogs are permitted on a leash.

This loop is considered a Chico classic, encapsulating the diverse natural beauty of Bidwell Park. Beyond the scenic vistas, the area is known for its volcanic rock formations and opportunities for summer dips in swimming holes nearby. It's a great option for those seeking a substantial half-day hike with a mix of challenging ascents and enjoyable descents.

The South Rim Trail offers an incredibly rewarding experience, showcasing panoramic views of the Grand Canyon from start to finish. This easy 4.0-mile (6.4 km) hike, with 543 feet (165 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 52 minutes to complete. You'll traverse mostly flat, paved sections, with some dirt paths, passing through areas with juniper and cedar trees that provide a natural frame for the immense landscape. It's a fantastic option for those seeking stunning vistas without a strenuous climb.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is served by a free shuttle bus system, allowing you to hike segments and easily return or move to another point. This flexibility makes it one of the most popular trails for all visitors, including families. Water sources are available at key points like Grand Canyon Village, and benches are placed along the route for convenient rest stops.

What makes the South Rim Trail truly stand out is its blend of accessibility and iconic viewpoints, such as Mather Point and Yavapai Point. Large portions are even wheelchair accessible, ensuring everyone can enjoy the natural features. For those looking for less crowded hikes, venturing further west towards Hermit's Rest often provides more solitude and opportunities for wildlife sightings.