Hiking is a beneficial exercise for both physical and mental health, allowing the outdoor nature to impact your well-being as well as the necessities your body needs to keep moving.
Winter break can be a great time to hit the trails if you prefer solitude and easy parking–just remember to check the weather report before you go, wear shoes with great tread, carry light weight rain gear and inform people where you are headed. A dry pair of clothes, warm slippers and a thermos of coffee or hot chocolate stashed in car when you return will be a reward for your efforts.
Here are some fun and easy trials I recommend visiting.
Butte Creek Trail – The Butte Creek Trail is a great hike to start your hiking adventures if you’re a beginner. This trail is 2.4 miles out and back and has a moderate difficulty level. Butte Creek Trial starts at Doe Mill Bridge and continues along one mile eventually leading you to the Forks Butte Creek. This trail is mostly wide and accessible except for one little area of steepness, but when you get through that small section you are golden. Butte Creek Trail is such a beautiful scenery filled with lush verdure and fresh, cold water that you are welcome to hop in during your hike.
Feather Falls Scenic Area and Recreation Trail – Feather Falls Scenic Area and Recreation Trail is one baby step away from Butte Creek Trail. This trail is 4.5 miles, loops over, and is also a moderate difficulty hiking level. Feather Falls Trail is located in Oroville just off Highway 162. Fun fact, this trail is famously known for having the sixth-highest waterfall in the nation! There is not a struggle during this hike, however, it’s recommended to stay at your own pace and take breaks if needed. This trail consists of various wildflowers, a 410-foot waterfall, and an amazing view, overlooking Feather Falls.
Phantom Falls Hike – Phantom Falls Hike is one of the easiest hikes in Butte County. This trail is mostly flat grounds and full of wide-open space. Phantom Falls is a 5.5-mile round trip and has many different trails for different hiking levels. You can locate Phantom Falls in Oroville at Table Mountain. This popular trail is most enjoyable during March-June, or during the spring when the waterfall is most active and all the wildflowers start to bloom; however, after a dry spell in the winter months, you may have the trail all to yourself. Phantom Falls has such a beautiful waterfall, and the best part is walking underneath and feeling the fresh cold water hit your body.
Yahi Trail – Yahi Trail is where you start to feel a little more advanced. This trail is 7.9 miles out and back. This trail is located in Chico, Bidwell Park Parking Area E. The best part about this trail is the entire time you are alongside one of the most beautiful rivers in Chico. Yahi Trail is a wonderful day hike to stop for a picnic, swim in the river, and sit in nature.
Annie Bidwell Trail – Now if you want to take your easy hiking experience to the highest level, Annie Bidwell Trail is the hike for you. This trail is 8.8 miles out and located in Chico Upper Bidwell Park. Annie Bidwell Trail would be described as a moderate-to-challenging trail, starting with a short walkway on the brim of a canyon leading to a steep downhill walk. However, the trip is so worth it, at the end, the trail features a quiet meadow opening opportunities for meditation and relaxation.
I hope these trails intrigue you to start hiking locally!
