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Chico, California

One of the top outdoor adventures in Chico, California is hiking the Yahi Trail. This must-visit trail is a 4-mile round trip with moderate difficulty, making it suitable for most fitness levels. The trail winds along the Big Chico Creek, offering scenic views of the flowing water and unique rock formations. Along the way, you'll pass the iconic Bear Hole, a popular swimming spot in the summer. If you're lucky, you may spot local wildlife, including deer and a variety of birds. Other outdoor activities in and near Chico include biking the Bidwell Park trails and kayaking on the Sacramento River. For a relaxing day, visit the Chico Creek Nature Center. It's the best way to enjoy the great outdoors in Chico!

Top Spots in and near Chico

  • Chico, California

    Yahi Trail

    8.88 mi / 541 ft gain
    Yahi Trail is an out-and-back trail where you may see wildflowers located near Chico, California.
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  • Chico, California

    Monkey Face Loop

    1.27 mi / 279 ft gain
    Monkey Face Loop is a loop trail that takes you by a lake located near Chico, California.
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  • Chico, California

    Hike the Yahi Trail in Upper Bidwell Park

    7.9 mi / 836 ft gain
    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, ...
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  • Oroville, California

    Hike to Phantom Falls

    4.6
    4.2 mi / 850 ft gain
    Dropping off a 135 ft cliff is a very well hidden waterfall with no trails leading to it. But if you do find it, it is an epic natural wonder.It is best to come here in the winter months, after a lot of rain. But it is also well worth coming in the spring when the wildflowers on Table Mountain ar...
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  • Oroville, California

    Hike to Hollow Falls

    5.0
    1 mi
    The first step of this fun little hike is to park at the handy parking lot located at 2488 Cherokee Rd., Oroville, CA up on Table Mountain. Many people park here for the hike to the more well-known Phantom Falls, which is a much longer hike than the one to Hollow Falls. From the lot, look for an ...
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  • Oroville, California

    Feather River Trail Upper Section

    3.23 mi / 89 ft gain
    Feather River Trail Upper Section is an out-and-back trail that takes you by a river located near Oroville, California.
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  • Tehama County, California

    Explore Deer Creek Falls

    5.0
    0.5 mi
    This extremely short hike starts just off of Highway 32. From Chester, head southwest on 32 for roughly 21 miles. There is a turnout and a sign where the trail starts. This waterfall is best viewed in the spring when there is still a large amount of snow melt off. This waterfall is definitely not...
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  • Penn Valley, California

    Visit the Bridgeport Covered Bridge

    4.0
    The famed and picturesque Bridgeport Covered Bridge, spanning the width of the Yuba River, was originally built in 1862. It was an integral passage for a freight hauling route from San Fransisco to Nevada. This historic site is now protected and is no longer able to be walked or driven through as...
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  • Nevada City, California

    Hike the Independence Trail

    4.5
    Starting from the free easy access parking lot right off highway 49 you head left up the trail. You will notice two trails side by side, one wider path for wheelchair access and another slightly narrower path for hikers on foot.The trail is set on the cliff side overlooking the South Fork of the ...
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Camping and Lodging in Chico

Oroville / Feather Falls Casino KOA Journey
Oroville, California

Oroville / Feather Falls Casino KOA Journey

Orland Buttes
County Road 206

Orland Buttes

Buckhorn
Buckhorn Road

Buckhorn

Mccarthy Point Lookout
Tehama County, California

Mccarthy Point Lookout

Sycamore Grove (Red Bluff) Campground
Red Bluff, California

Sycamore Grove (Red Bluff) Campground

Hutchins
Quincy, California

Hutchins