After some research and a few weekends on the hunt for an adventure, we found the best and really the only option for hiking in Chico...Bidwell Park. But don't worry, this one park brings a lot to this small California city.

We stayed in Chico for a few months during a pandemic while Phil was working. While trying to get time outside the house in a safe way, hiking was the best option.

Of course, we could have found plenty of hikes to choose from (it's Northern California after all) but that's not what we wanted. Maybe it was stress, maybe it was laziness but the last thing we wanted to do was drive...anywhere.

So to keep it simple we decided to find hikes located in Chico only a few minutes away from our rental and that's when we discovered Bidwell Park.

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Bidwell Park

Before you get the wrong impression, let's make one thing clear...Bidwell Park is legit. When we say there this is the only option for hiking that doesn't mean there is only one hike.

Bidwell Park is huge! So huge there is an Upper Bidwell and a Lower Bidwell Park divided by the main road in town.

There might also be a Middle Park but it seems like that might be a golf course. It's a little confusing so just stick with upper/lower and you'll be good to go.

We didn't know this until we started writing this post but it turns Bidwell Park is one of the LARGEST city parks in the US. Leslie Knope from Parks and Rec would be in heaven.

So when we say park what we're really talking about is a lot of land, a lot of trails, and a lot to see.

Upper Bidwell Park

When it comes to hiking trails, Upper Bidwell Park is the winner. There are so many trails that all seem to somehow connect we can't even tell you the names of what trails to do.

What we can tell you is that if you head to Upper Bidwell Park, you will find plenty of parking areas and lots of trails. You really can't go wrong.

We park and just head out on any trail we can find. Instead of worrying about what trail to go on next we just take random paths and trace our steps when we're ready to head home.

There are so many trails we typically do about five miles but you could easily turn it into a 10-mile hike. Most of the paths are clear but be on the lookout for loose rocks.

If you need something to look for or want more of a solidified destination check out Horseshoe Lake. There are several parking lots, a lake to walk around, and several interconnecting trails.

Our favorite place to go is Big Chico Creek using the Chico Canyon Trailhead. You get to see the creek right away then have a lot of steep hikes to choose from.

Be on the lookout for trail markers that give directions for horse trails. We accidentally took one trail that was very steep and had a lot of loose rocks making it quite difficult.

Lower Bidwell Park

Lower Bidwell Park has the feel of a typical park but even better. There are flat paths everywhere surrounded by trees.

The best part about Lower Bidwell Park is the paved trail perfect for running, biking, or an easier stroll through Chico. Of course, there are other park perks like picnic benches (a lot of them) and a playground.

If you are wanting a smaller, mini-adventure in nature then Lower Bidwell Park is for you. It's simple, easy to get to, and still has plenty of views.

Have Fun Hiking

We were pleasantly surprised with Bidwell Park and the hikes available. Yes, it can get a little rocky at times but we got some great pictures and were able to get some much-needed exercise.

If there are other hikes in Chico other than Bidwell Park, let us know. Maybe there is some super cool secret location we don't know about.