Swasey Recreation Area
A premier Northern California destination for mountain biking, hiking, and outdoor recreation with diverse trails for all skill levels.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
More comfortable for outdoor activities
Swasey Recreation Area
Best Time
More comfortable for outdoor activities
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A premier Northern California destination for mountain biking, hiking, and outdoor recreation with diverse trails for all skill levels.
"Escalator and Snails Trail are my two favorite northern California trails. I love it here!!!"
Bring Plenty of Water! 💧
No water sources available on trails. Stay hydrated for your ride or hike!
Check Trail Maps First 🗺️
Maps are available at parking lots. Essential for navigating the network.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Enticer Trail
Swasey Recreation Area
A popular beginner-friendly flow trail with jumps, perfect for riders looking for fun and speed.
Snail Trail
Swasey Recreation Area
A blast to ride downhill, this trail offers an exhilarating experience for those seeking a fast descent.
Canyon Holler
Swasey Recreation Area
Redding's first directional, MTB-only trail within city limits, designed for beginner-friendly flow.
Escalator Trail
Swasey Recreation Area
A fun, non-technical climb that allows for fast pedaling, leading to rewarding summit views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Mountain Biking Paradise
Trail Conditions & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Plenty of Water! 💧
No water sources available on trails. Stay hydrated for your ride or hike!
Check Trail Maps First 🗺️
Maps are available at parking lots. Essential for navigating the network.
Bike Repair Station Available 🛠️
Lower parking lot has tools and a pump for quick fixes.
Great for All Levels 🚴♀️
Trails cater to beginners and experienced riders alike.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Plenty of Water! 💧
No water sources available on trails. Stay hydrated for your ride or hike!
Check Trail Maps First 🗺️
Maps are available at parking lots. Essential for navigating the network.
Bike Repair Station Available 🛠️
Lower parking lot has tools and a pump for quick fixes.
Great for All Levels 🚴♀️
Trails cater to beginners and experienced riders alike.
Dog-Friendly Walks 🐕
Enjoy a hike or walk with your furry friend.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Swasey Recreation Area, particularly its well-maintained mountain bike trails like Enticer and Snail Trail, which are praised for their flow and downhill fun. The area is also appreciated for its hiking and dog-walking opportunities, with friendly locals enhancing the experience. Some users note limited parking and the absence of water sources as minor drawbacks.
"Took Mule to 4 corners, to Meiners loop to catch Escalator (which I LOVED!!!) It was a fun climb that is not super technical but you can crank it and go fast, to Summit Trail and up to the top of Bear Mnt, then down Snail Trail (which was a BLAST to crank it going down!) and Mules Loop to the parking area. 15 miles???? My first time in Redding. I lucked out and found a friendly local to ride with. People here are so nice, the trails were in great condition (it was misting the whole time when I rode) and I think Escalator and Snails Trail are my two favorite northern California trails. I love it here!!! (PS: I was having too much fun going down Snails to stop and take pictures of that trail.)"
Joy Simpson
"Great area for hiking, walking the dog or mountain bike riding. There's restrooms here. Limited parking. There is a bike pump too!"
S O
"Decent ride Mello elevation climb lots of riding on a ebike"
Kanjo_ef
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Swasey Recreation Area is located in Redding, California. Access is typically via local roads. There are two main parking areas: a lower lot and a back lot, both providing access to the trail systems.
Yes, it's a well-known spot for local outdoor enthusiasts. Use GPS to navigate to the parking areas.
The area is best explored on foot, by mountain bike, or horseback. E-bikes are also mentioned as a good option for the trails.
Swasey is close to other Redding attractions like the river trail and pump track, making it part of a larger outdoor recreation hub.
There are multiple parking lots, including a lower and back lot, which serve as access points to different sections of the trail network.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no mention of an entrance fee for Swasey Recreation Area in the provided information. It appears to be a free public access area.
Specific operating hours are not listed, but it's generally assumed to be open during daylight hours for recreational activities.
No advance booking is required as there is no admission fee. It's a first-come, first-served access area.
Yes, there are restrooms available at both the lower and back parking lots. They are described as vault toilets but usually clean.
No, camping is not permitted at Swasey Recreation Area.
🎫 🚵 Onsite Experience
Popular trails include Enticer (flow and jumps), Snail Trail (downhill fun), Canyon Holler (beginner flow), Terminator (moderate tech), and Escalator (fast climb). +4
Yes, it's a great area for hiking, walking dogs, and horseback riding, with trails suitable for various levels.
Maps are provided at both the lower and back parking lots to help you navigate the trail system.
There's a bike repair station with tools and a pump located at the lower parking lot.
Yes, it's a great area for walking the dog. Ensure you follow any local leash laws.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no food or dining facilities within Swasey Recreation Area itself. Visitors are advised to bring their own food and drinks.
You'll need to head back into Redding for dining options. The city offers a variety of restaurants and cafes.
Given the lack of dining facilities, packing a picnic is highly recommended, especially for longer visits or rides.
There is no mention of BBQ facilities or regulations regarding BBQs. It's best to assume they are not permitted unless otherwise posted.
Redding offers a range of cuisines, from casual eateries to more established restaurants.
📸 📸 Photography
The trails themselves offer dynamic action shots for mountain bikers. Scenic overlooks and the natural landscape provide opportunities for landscape photography.
Regulations regarding drone usage are not specified. It's advisable to check local rules before flying a drone.
Action shots of mountain biking are very popular, capturing jumps and flow on trails like Enticer and Snail Trail. 
While not within Swasey itself, the nearby Round House on Kutras Lake is a unique architectural landmark in Redding.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best natural light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 Families can also enjoy leisurely hikes or walks with their dogs on the well-maintained trails.Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, as there are no concessions available. The restrooms at the parking lots offer basic facilities. It's a great place for kids to burn off energy in a safe and engaging natural environment.
🚵 Mountain Bikers
+2 For a thrilling descent, Snail Trail is highly recommended.Don't forget to utilize the bike repair station at the lower parking lot for any last-minute adjustments. Be prepared for varying trail conditions and always carry sufficient water. The variety of trails ensures there's something for every skill level, from novice to expert.
🚶 Hikers & Dog Walkers
Ensure you bring your own water, as there are no water facilities on-site. Leash laws should be observed for the safety and comfort of all visitors and their pets.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Mountain Biking Trails at Swasey
+1 Snail Trail is renowned for its exhilarating downhill sections, offering a thrilling descent.Beyond these standout trails, Terminator offers a moderate technical challenge, and Mule Ridge and Snail Flow Trail are also part of the extensive network.
When planning your ride, remember that Swasey is best enjoyed during cooler parts of the day to avoid the California heat. While parking can be limited, the availability of maps at both parking lots helps in navigating the diverse trail system. Whether you're a seasoned rider or just starting, Swasey Recreation Area offers an engaging and enjoyable mountain biking experience.
Hiking and Other Activities
The area is described as great for hiking and walking the dog, with trails that are generally well-maintained.
It's important to note that there are no water sources within the recreation area, so bringing your own water is crucial, especially during warmer months or for longer excursions.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit