The best walks and hikes around Lake Oroville

The Kelly Ridge Point Trail offers a genuinely rewarding experience, providing panoramic views of Lake Oroville and the Oroville Dam from its accessible paths. You'll find yourself surrounded by forested hills and distinctive orange earth, with the chance to spot impressive wildflowers in various coves. From Kelly Ridge Point, you get an almost 360-degree vista of the lake's main body, making this an easy 1.1-mile (1.7 km) hike with only 59 feet (18 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking just 27 minutes.

Planning your trip is straightforward, with a large parking area and porta-potties available at the trailhead. However, you'll need a CDFW Lands pass or a valid California hunting or fishing license to access this reserve. Since the trail offers no shade, it's wise to plan for weather conditions, especially on warmer days, and be prepared for potentially muddy sections after rain.

This trail is particularly notable for its family-friendly nature and the stunning views it provides of the backside of Oroville Dam and the Bidwell Bar Suspension Bridge. When water levels are high, you might even be able to dip your toes in the lake, adding a unique touch to this easy, high-payoff route in the Sierra Nevada foothills.

The Potters Ravine Trail offers a delightful, easy stroll through a forest of pines, oaks, and chestnuts, providing a pleasant, shaded experience. This specific segment is particularly accessible, featuring a generally flat path with compacted soil, making it a smooth journey for all. While longer routes in the area offer panoramic views of the Bidwell Bar Bridge and Oroville Dam, this short trail focuses on a peaceful immersion in nature, especially vibrant with wildflowers in spring. You might even spot local wildlife like deer or rabbits along the way.

This easy hiking route covers just 0.3 miles (0.5 km) with a minimal 34 feet (11 metres) of elevation gain, taking only about 8 minutes to complete. It's an ideal choice for a quick, family-friendly outing or for those seeking an ADA-accessible path. The trail system is typically open year-round on weekends, but remember that dogs are not permitted. Always check for potential seasonal closures, as parts of the trail may be temporarily inaccessible during eagle nesting season in spring and early summer.

Potters Ravine is known for its diverse trail network, and this short path serves as a gentle introduction to the area's natural beauty. In spring, the landscape transforms into a "Wildflower Spectacle" with poppies and goldfields, and the seasonal Phantom Falls is a notable highlight on the longer trails. The multi-use trail system also features amenities like benches and picnic tables, and provides access to several beaches, making it a versatile destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Embark on the Feather Falls Loop Trail, a moderate hiking route that spans 7.3 miles (11.7 km) and involves a climb of 1332 feet (406 metres). You can expect to complete this journey in about 3 hours and 33 minutes, traversing through dense forests and areas of exposed granite. The highlight is undoubtedly the majestic Feather Falls, a 640-foot waterfall that plunges dramatically, offering a truly impressive sight.

Before you head out, be aware that the trail was significantly impacted by the 2020 North Complex Fire, which destroyed much of the tree canopy, leaving many sections exposed. The area experienced extensive damage and was closed through at least December 2024, so always check for current conditions and closures before planning your visit. Dogs are welcome on the trail, but please keep them on a leash, and it's a good idea to perform tick checks after your hike.

This trail is notable for showcasing one of the tallest waterfalls in the United States, making it a significant natural landmark in the region. As you hike, you will cross Frey Creek and enjoy various viewpoints that offer glimpses of Bald Rock Dome and the Middle Fork Feather River. Keep an eye out for wildflowers if you visit in the spring, adding another layer of beauty to your outdoor adventure.

Imagine hiking through vibrant green hills and open grasslands, where unique basalt rock formations rise from the landscape. This moderate 6.3-mile (10.1 km) loop offers a journey past several impressive waterfalls, including the 166-foot Phantom Falls, Ravine Falls, and Beatson Falls. You will gain 641 feet (195 metres) in elevation, with the entire route typically taking around 2 hours and 51 minutes to complete. During the wet season and early spring, the meadows come alive with a spectacular display of wildflowers like lupines and wild iris, creating a truly scenic adventure.

To plan your visit, know that the best time to experience the Phantom Falls Loop is from winter to early spring, generally between March and May, especially after recent rains when the waterfalls are at their fullest and wildflowers are in bloom. Remember that a CDFW Lands Pass is required for access to the North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve. Be prepared for limited shade along the trail; you should carry plenty of water and wear sun protection to stay comfortable throughout your hike.

This trail is notable for its diverse landscapes, transitioning from lush meadows to rocky outcrops, all shaped by ancient basalt geology. The area is a natural spectacle, particularly when the seasonal waterfalls are flowing strongly, making it a prime destination for nature enthusiasts. Beyond the prominent Phantom Falls, you will also encounter the less-known but equally charming Hollow Falls, adding to the route's unique character and visual appeal.