Monkey Face Upper Bidwell
Chico's iconic Monkey Face offers a rewarding short hike with stunning panoramic views and unique rock formations in Upper Bidwell Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Monkey Face Upper Bidwell
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Chico's iconic Monkey Face offers a rewarding short hike with stunning panoramic views and unique rock formations in Upper Bidwell Park.
"This place? It's raw. It's real. It's the kind of trail that makes you slow your boots and take it all in."
👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Wear good hiking shoes for the rocky, uneven terrain. You'll appreciate the grip and support!
💧 Hydration is Key
Bring plenty of water, especially on warmer days. Staying hydrated is crucial for enjoying your hike.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Monkey Face Rock Formation
Upper Bidwell Park
Chico's iconic rock formation offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. A must-see for any visitor!
Panoramic Chico Views
Summit of Monkey Face
Soak in breathtaking vistas of Chico and the surrounding valley from this elevated vantage point.
Big Chico Creek
Creekside trails
Explore shady, serene spots along Big Chico Creek, perfect for a peaceful retreat and a change of scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Trail Preparedness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Wear good hiking shoes for the rocky, uneven terrain. You'll appreciate the grip and support!
💧 Hydration is Key
Bring plenty of water, especially on warmer days. Staying hydrated is crucial for enjoying your hike.
☀️ Sun Protection
Don't forget sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. The sun can be intense, even on cooler days.
⚠️ Supervise Children
While fun for kids, there are steep drop-offs. Keep a close eye on children at all times.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Wear good hiking shoes for the rocky, uneven terrain. You'll appreciate the grip and support!
💧 Hydration is Key
Bring plenty of water, especially on warmer days. Staying hydrated is crucial for enjoying your hike.
☀️ Sun Protection
Don't forget sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. The sun can be intense, even on cooler days.
⚠️ Supervise Children
While fun for kids, there are steep drop-offs. Keep a close eye on children at all times.
📸 Capture the Views
The summit offers spectacular photo opportunities. Bring your camera or phone to capture the scenery!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Monkey Face for its fun, short hike and rewarding summit views. The unique rock formations offer opportunities for exploration, and the surrounding trails provide a peaceful escape into nature. While generally well-maintained, some mention the need for supervision with children due to drop-offs and the potential for crowds on weekends.
"Fun little hike! Nice and short with a fun payoff at the top. Nice view. Lots of fun little spots to climb around. Kids should be supervised as there of some spots to fall off but totally managed for kids 8 and up I’d say."
Jared Koyle
"Well now, saddle up for this one, because Upper Bidwell Park ain’t just another city trail it’s a whole rugged romance wrapped in sunbaked stone and whispering.
Started off with a dusty handshake from the trailhead sign, graffiti bird watching me like it knew I was about to fall in love with this land. From there, it was pure poetry. Winding paths carved right into ancient basalt, golden grass waving at me like an old flame, and rock ledges daring me to get closer (I did, but with caution
this cowboy ain’t trying to fly without wings).
Then I dipped down low, into the shady creekside spots where the light plays through the trees like it’s flirtin’. Big Chico Creek was babblin’ soft and sweet, and I reckon if a fella was to bring a date down there, the trees might blush. Somewhere behind me, that old golf course was quietly giving up its last putt to nature, and honestly, that felt right.
This place? It’s raw. It’s real. It’s the kind of trail that makes you slow your boots and take it all in, even when your heart wants to gallop.
#CoastalCowboy #UpperBidwellPark #TrailsideFlirtations #BigChicoCreek #ChicoWildSide #RimRockRomance #HikeLikeAMan #GoldGrassDreams #NatureLoverNotFighter #VisitChico #CreeksideConfessions"
Marc A. Tager
"Super peaceful and a great way to enjoy nature."
Dawud Afshar
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Monkey Face is located in Upper Bidwell Park, accessible by car. The most popular trailheads are off Centennial Road. Parking is available, but can fill up on busy days.
Public transportation options to Upper Bidwell Park are limited. It's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services.
Parking lots are available at various trailheads, including those leading to Monkey Face. Arrive early on weekends and holidays to secure a spot.
Yes, there are multiple trails that lead to Monkey Face. The Monkey Face Loop is a popular, shorter option, while other trails offer longer, more challenging routes.
Dogs are allowed in Upper Bidwell Park but must be kept on a leash at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to enter Upper Bidwell Park or hike to Monkey Face. It's a free public park.
Upper Bidwell Park is generally open from sunrise to sunset. However, it's always a good idea to check local park advisories for any specific closures or restrictions.
The most direct route is often referred to as the Monkey Face Loop, a short and popular trail. However, other trails in Upper Bidwell Park can also lead you to the vicinity.
No permits are required for general hiking in Upper Bidwell Park. Enjoy the natural beauty freely!
While the park is generally open until sunset, it's not recommended to hike to Monkey Face after dark due to safety concerns and lack of lighting.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Monkey Face Loop trail is about 1 mile and can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your pace and how long you spend at the top.
The hike to Monkey Face is generally considered easy to moderate. It involves some elevation gain and rocky terrain, but it's manageable for most fitness levels.
Restroom facilities are available at some of the main parking areas and picnic spots within Upper Bidwell Park.
You might encounter various birds, squirrels, and other small wildlife. Keep a respectful distance and do not feed the animals.
Yes, there are several picnic areas within Upper Bidwell Park, some with tables and grills. It's a great spot for a packed lunch after your hike.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for photos. Midday can be harsh but still offers great panoramic shots.
You can capture wide-angle shots of the Chico valley, close-ups of the unique rock formations, and scenic trail photos.
Exercise extreme caution when taking photos on the rock formations. Stick to designated safe areas and be aware of your surroundings.
Drone usage is typically restricted in city parks. It's best to check the official Bidwell Park regulations or local FAA guidelines before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a zoom lens can be useful for capturing details. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
👟 Active Adventurers
The varied terrain, including steep inclines and rocky scrambles, offers a great test of endurance. Consider bringing a trail running pack or even exploring the possibility of cold water swimming in Big Chico Creek for a refreshing post-hike cooldown. 📸 Photographers & Nature Lovers
Capture the dramatic basalt formations, the sweeping views of Chico, and the serene beauty of Big Chico Creek. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Upper Bidwell Park's Trails
Many trails are multi-use, so be mindful of cyclists and horseback riders. The park's landscape is a unique blend of rolling hills, rocky outcrops, and shaded creek beds. You'll traverse dusty paths, climb over ancient basalt formations, and wander through golden grasslands.
Always check trail conditions, especially after rain, as some areas can become muddy or prone to erosion. Beyond the immediate vicinity of Monkey Face, Upper Bidwell Park offers opportunities for cold water swimming in Big Chico Creek during warmer months, though caution is advised due to currents.
The Geology and History of Monkey Face
The area has a rich history, with evidence of Native American habitation dating back thousands of years. The park's natural resources, including the creek and abundant wildlife, provided sustenance and shelter for indigenous peoples. Later, the area was utilized for ranching and recreation.
Today, Monkey Face stands as a symbol of Chico's natural beauty and a popular destination for hikers, climbers, and nature lovers. Its accessibility and striking geological features make it a focal point for outdoor activities and a reminder of the powerful forces that shaped the land.
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