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Yahi Trail

4.6
·491k reviews·Chico, United States

A scenic 7.9-mile out-and-back trail in Upper Bidwell Park, offering stunning creek views and popular swimming holes.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Wildflowers bloom beautifully

CrowdLow
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Yahi Trail - Image 1

Yahi Trail

Best Time

Spring mornings

Wildflowers bloom beautifully

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A scenic 7.9-mile out-and-back trail in Upper Bidwell Park, offering stunning creek views and popular swimming holes.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Discover epic views and the best of Upper Bidwell Park on the Yahi Trail!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🐾 Dog-Friendly Trail

Your furry friends are welcome on the Yahi Trail, making it a great spot for a hike with your dog. :dog:

🥾 Moderate Hiking

The 7.9-mile out-and-back trail offers a moderate challenge, suitable for most fitness levels. :hiking_boot:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Bear Hole

Bear Hole

Yahi Trail

A popular swimming spot along the Big Chico Creek, perfect for a refreshing dip on a warm day.

Reddit
Big Chico Creek

Big Chico Creek

Yahi Trail

Follow the creek for stunning natural views and a chance to cool off in its waters.

Instagram
Panoramic Views

Panoramic Views

Yahi Trail

Experience breathtaking vistas of the surrounding nature and the creek below.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Trailhead Access & Parking

Park at Parking Lot E and walk along Upper Park Road to find the Yahi Trailhead. Be aware that the full trail is 7.9 miles out-and-back, so plan accordingly for your hike. Instagram

Hydration & Snacks

The Yahi Trail is a moderate hike, so remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike the full length. Instagram

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Wildflowers bloom beautifully
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Cool off at swimming holes
Crowd
Medium
When
Fall evenings
Why
Golden hour light is stunning
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Discover epic views and the best of Upper Bidwell Park on the Yahi Trail 🌳🥾☀️ ☀️ 𝗚𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗲𝗱 Park at Parking Lot E and walk along Upper Park Road until you see a sign for Yahi Trail to find the trailhead. The full length of Yahi Trail is 7.9 miles out-and-back, but you can access popular spots, like Bear Hole (1.5 miles from trailhead) and Salmon Hole (2 miles), without hiking the whole way. ...
explorebuttecountyca
1.3K likes • 30.9K views

🐾 Dog-Friendly Trail

Your furry friends are welcome on the Yahi Trail, making it a great spot for a hike with your dog. Instagram :dog:

🥾 Moderate Hiking

The 7.9-mile out-and-back trail offers a moderate challenge, suitable for most fitness levels. Instagram :hiking_boot:

Save this complete itinerary for your next road trip to Butte County 🫶 DAY 1 ▪️Chico Seed Orchard — a beautiful park to stroll ▪️Upper Bidwell Park: Yahi Trail — hike the full 7.9-mile out-and-back trail, or visit specific spots ▪️Monkey Face Trail — a short hike, perfect for sunset ▪️Nama Sake Sushi — a top sushi spot in Chico Stay in Chico DAY 2 ▫️Stoble Coffee — amazing coffee shop and work...
elinaways
693 likes • 19K views
Beautiful all year long, Yahi Trail in Upper Bidwell Park is your path for stunning views of nature and the Big Chico Creek. 🥾 The approximately 8-mile trail is great for a moderate hike with your pals—even your dog can join! Bring a snack and water to begin your adventure! 🌳💙 ⁠ ⁠ 📍 Upper Park Road
travel.chico
234 likes • 3.9K views

📍 Trailhead Access

Park at Lot E and walk Upper Park Road to find the Yahi Trail entrance. Instagram :round_pushpin:

💧 Swim Spot Info

Bear Hole and other swimming spots are accessible from Yahi Trail or the main road. Reddit :droplet:

🌲My top 3 Favorite Hikes in Butte County🌲 📍Lil’ Falls 📍Yahi Trail 📍Butte Creek Trail If you’re in the Butte County area and are looking to get outside try one of my top 3 favorite trails! All the details are on my newest blog post so check it out by clicking the link in my bio. Happy hiking! 🥾 #hike #optoutside #hiking #hikebuttecounty #activenorcal #hikingadventures #womenwhohike #womenwhoexpl...
jennahoutdoors
39 likes • 778 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🐾 Dog-Friendly Trail

Your furry friends are welcome on the Yahi Trail, making it a great spot for a hike with your dog. Instagram :dog:

🥾 Moderate Hiking

The 7.9-mile out-and-back trail offers a moderate challenge, suitable for most fitness levels. Instagram :hiking_boot:

📍 Trailhead Access

Park at Lot E and walk Upper Park Road to find the Yahi Trail entrance. Instagram :round_pushpin:

💧 Swim Spot Info

Bear Hole and other swimming spots are accessible from Yahi Trail or the main road. Reddit :droplet:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Yahi Trail's stunning natural beauty, particularly the refreshing swimming holes along Big Chico Creek, making it a perfect spot for a moderate hike and a summer escape. While the trail offers a great outdoor experience, some find the full 7.9 miles challenging and recommend planning for hydration and sun protection.

What People Like

Beautiful creek views
Refreshing swimming spots
Dog-friendly atmosphere

What People Dislike

Long distance for some
Can get hot

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

To reach the Yahi Trailhead, park at Parking Lot E and walk along Upper Park Road until you see the sign for the trail. Instagram The trail is located within Upper Bidwell Park. Instagram

Yes, the trailhead is marked and accessible from Upper Park Road. Instagram It's a well-known trail within Upper Bidwell Park. Instagram

While the main trailhead is off Upper Park Road, some users mention that swimming holes like Bear Hole are also accessible by turning off the main road or from the Yahi Trail itself. Reddit

Upper Bidwell Park is located in Chico, California. You can use GPS to navigate to 'Upper Bidwell Park, Chico, CA'. Parking Lot E is a common starting point for the Yahi Trail. Instagram

Information on public transportation directly to the Yahi Trailhead is limited. It's generally recommended to drive to Upper Bidwell Park. Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is no entrance fee mentioned for Yahi Trail or Upper Bidwell Park, making it a free outdoor activity. Instagram+1

Upper Bidwell Park, including the Yahi Trail, is generally accessible during daylight hours. Specific park hours may vary, so it's best to check local park information. Instagram

No, tickets are not required for Yahi Trail as it is an open public trail. Instagram+1

No permits are typically required for day hiking on the Yahi Trail. Instagram+1

Yes, the Yahi Trail is beautiful year-round, offering different scenery in each season. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The Yahi Trail is approximately 7.9 miles out-and-back, offering a substantial hike for visitors. Instagram+1

The Yahi Trail is considered a moderate hike, suitable for those with a reasonable level of fitness. Instagram

Yes, popular swimming spots like Bear Hole are accessible from the Yahi Trail and the main road. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! Dogs are welcome on the Yahi Trail, making it a great option for pet owners. Instagram :dog:

You can expect stunning views of nature, the Big Chico Creek, and the surrounding landscape. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

Look for scenic overlooks along the trail that offer panoramic views of the creek and valley. Instagram The creek itself and any wildflowers in bloom also make for great shots. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) often provides the best lighting for landscape photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Instagram

Bear Hole is a popular spot, and the various bends and cascades of Big Chico Creek offer picturesque scenes. InstagramReddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions. :camerawithflash:

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local park authorities regarding any restrictions on drone operation in Upper Bidwell Park before flying. :drone:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Yahi Trail offers a fantastic outdoor adventure for families. While the full 7.9-mile trail might be long for very young children, you can easily access popular spots like Bear Hole for a shorter hike and a fun swimming experience. InstagramReddit Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, and consider bringing a leash for any furry family members, as dogs are welcome on the trail. Instagram The natural beauty and the chance to splash in Big Chico Creek make it an engaging outing for kids. Instagram

🐶 Dog Owners

The Yahi Trail is a paradise for dog owners! Your canine companions are welcome to join you on this scenic hike, allowing you to share the experience of exploring Upper Bidwell Park together. Instagram Ensure your dog is on a leash, as per park regulations, and always carry water for them, especially on warmer days. The trail offers plenty of space for them to explore and enjoy the natural surroundings. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Hikers Seeking Moderate Challenges

For those looking for a solid moderate hike, the Yahi Trail delivers. The 7.9-mile out-and-back route provides a good workout with rewarding views. Instagram+1 You can choose to tackle the entire length or opt for a shorter segment, depending on your time and energy levels. The trail's varied terrain and natural beauty make the effort worthwhile. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Upper Bidwell Park

The Yahi Trail is a gateway to the vast and beautiful Upper Bidwell Park, a sprawling natural area in Chico, California. This park offers a diverse range of landscapes, from rugged canyons to riparian zones along Big Chico Creek. The Yahi Trail itself is a significant portion of the park's trail system, providing access to its more remote and scenic areas. Instagram+1

Beyond the Yahi Trail, Upper Bidwell Park boasts other popular spots like Monkey Face Trail, known for its sunset views, and various picnic areas. The park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, biking, birdwatching, and, during warmer months, swimming in designated areas. Instagram It's a place where you can truly immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the rugged beauty of Northern California. Instagram+1

When planning your visit, consider that Upper Bidwell Park is divided into Upper and Lower sections, with the Yahi Trail being firmly in the Upper Park. The Upper Park tends to be more rugged and natural, while the Lower Park offers more developed amenities. Understanding this distinction can help you better plan your exploration and choose trails that best suit your interests. Instagram

Swimming Holes and Creek Access

One of the major draws of the Yahi Trail, especially during warmer months, is its access to Big Chico Creek and its swimming holes. Bear Hole is frequently mentioned as a prime spot for a refreshing dip. InstagramReddit These natural pools offer a perfect way to cool off after a hike and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Instagram

Accessing these swimming spots is often straightforward from the Yahi Trail or by taking a short detour from the main road. Reddit It's important to be aware of water levels and conditions, as they can vary throughout the year. Always exercise caution when swimming in natural bodies of water and supervise children closely. Instagram

Beyond Bear Hole, other areas along Big Chico Creek may offer opportunities for wading or enjoying the creek's ambiance. The sound of the flowing water and the lush vegetation surrounding the creek create a serene and inviting atmosphere for visitors. Instagram+1

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