Hike the Yahi Trail in Upper Bidwell Park

To start this hike, find parking at Bidwell Park Parking Area E, near the Chico Rod and Gun Club. From there walk a short ways down Upper Park Road. You will see the sign for the Yahi Trail trailhead on the right. From here, simply follow the trail along the river. A reminder to those with dogs, although they are welcome on the trail, please remember to keep them on a leash!

The four miles of trail are full of great spots to stop for picnics, swimming in the river, and just relaxing by the water. There are some beach-like areas if you would like to lay out, and tons of wildflowers during the spring and summer seasons.

My personal favorite spots are towards the end of the trail, where the natural basalt rocks begin to show in greater numbers along the river. Eventually at the end of the trail you arrive at a swimming hole formed at the bottom of a basalt canyon, worn down and formed over the countless years of running water moving over it.

These spots are great for cooling down on a hot summer day, which are plentiful in Chico! Whether you're from out of town or a Chico local, Yahi Trail is a must-see no matter what time of year.