Lots of lava rock. Intermediate to advanced. Middle trail is going to be challenging for beginners but it's do-able. Well maintained by the mountain bikers in Chico. North Rim trail follows the fence on the north end of the park boundery, a good climb to Bobby Seals Trail (or sometimes known as Live Oak Trail) which drops down into the valley. Easy to see where you are as there are good views of the valley below. Live Oak connects to Middle trail. There is a "Lower Trail" ( parallels the dirt road) with other trails connecting all three,An easy out if your looking for one.
The best is South Rim Trail, advanced riders like it. It's not easy to find. Located on the south side of the Chico Creek where Centennial Ave meets Chico Canyon Rd. Recommend getting a map of the Chico area.
Both North Rim and South Rim Trails will climb 800 to 900 feet from the center of the park in about 12 to 14 miles, out and back.
Chico is full of bike shops. North Rim Adventure Sports 530-345-2453 (Trek, Santa Cruz, Gary Fisher) Chico Sports LTD 530-894-1110 (Specialized) the biggest bike I've seen. Maps of the park are available at these two shops. There are 9 other bike shops in town if you want to find 'em. Also Sierra Nevada Brewery is on 20th street and Chico Brew House is on 250 Cohasset Rd. 894-2149, (my favorite).
I don't need to tell you to bring lots of water. Summer temps can get to 100 deg.
Winter rain will close the trails.
Tred lightly, ENJOY!
Traveling north on Hwy 99, exit Hwy 32 in the Chico area and drive east about 1 1/2 miles to Bruce Rd. Turn left on Bruce road. Drive north on Bruce Rd.( which turns into Manzanita Ave.) for about 2 1/4 miles and turn right on Wildwood Ave. There will be a Fire Station on the corner. Turn right (or east) on Wildwood Ave. and you will be facing all of Upper Park trails. Trail head parking is at the first left dirt road, more like a 1/8 mile driveway. If you drive to the end of the paved road there is more parking and more choices of trails. From here the pavement turns to a gravel road up the middle of the park, sometimes closed to motorised vehicles. All the trails open to cyclist are on the north side of this road. The trail next to the creek, the Yahae(sp) Trail is for foot traffic only, please. Upper Park is between two ridges so it's hard to get lost, just ride down hill till you find the dirt road and follow it down to the parking lots.
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