Bidwell Park

Hiking

Hiking in Bidwell Park is a perfect way to spend a day. All trails in Bidwell Park are open to pedestrians. The pedestrian-only Yahi Trail in Upper Park is a recommended visit. Yahi Trail offers the hiker miles of scenic views along Big Chico Creek. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and to bring plenty of drinking water.

Horseback Riding

Horseback riding is a common past time in Bidwell Park. Because trails are mostly multi-use, there are abundant riding opportunities for equestrians.

Basic equestrian rules are as follows:

  • No horses on Middle and Upper Park trails when closed due to wet conditions
  • No riding on Yahi Trail (a pedestrian-only trail)
  • Keep horses 100 feet away from established picnic areas
  • Cross the creek only at established and signed horse crossings

Mountain Biking

Mountain biking is one of the most common activities that takes place in Bidwell Park. There are miles upon miles of trails to ride on, and incredible scenery along the way.

Some of the basic mountain biking rules for Bidwell Park are as follows:

  • No riding on Yahi Trail (a pedestrian only trail).
  • No bikes on Middle and Upper Park trails when closed due to wet conditions.
  • Helmets must be worn by people of all ages when riding off of pavement in Middle and Upper Park.

For mountain biking trail suggestions, check out this page by the MTB Project.

To further ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable time, bring plenty of drinking water and a tire patch kit.

Disc Golfing

Bidwell Park is home to two disc golf courses, Sherwood Forest in Middle Park and Peregrine Point in Upper Park.

Sherwood Forest

Sherwood Forest is a 9-hole disc golf course located near Hooker Oak Recreation Area in Middle Bidwell Park that is a challenge for both kids and adults. It is mostly flat and slightly wooded terrain, with concrete tee pads and basket-style targets.  Rattlesnakes can be common in the area, so be on the lookout when playing this course. Visit the disc golf page for this course at sherwood-forest-bidwell-park for maps, directions, and more information.

Peregrine Point

Peregrine Point is an 18-hole advanced disc golf course located in Upper Bidwell Park, with access off Hwy 32 (roughly 3 miles east of Chico).  The site has stunning views of Chico’s Iron Canyon and play occurs in Blue Oak Woodlands spanning areas of lava cap.  Peregrine Point is equipped with concrete tee pads and basket-style targets.  Visit the disc golf page at peregrine-point-bidwell-park for maps, directions, and places to play during wet weather.  It is recommended that beginners start with Sherwood Forest before venturing to Peregrine Point.

Paragliding

Flying in the park offers outstanding views and fantastic soaring opportunities.

Launching is allowed from designated locations along the North Rim and the flying is best with a south wind (5-15 mph), typically from March through October.

Paragliding permits must be signed in the Public Works Department – Parks Division at 965 Fir Street (Open Monday – Friday 8 am to 5 pm).

Paragliding Rules and Guidelines for Bidwell Park flight

Check out the Bidwell Park Fliers’ website for more information on qualifications, rules, permits and guidelines for flying in the Park.

For more information, or to arrange a site prior to flying, contact Jon Stallman, site administrator. 
Cell phone: 530.864.5110