North rim trail entrance – Bidwell Park loop from North Valley Pillsbury Road Butte College Bus Transfer
North rim trail entrance – Bidwell Park loop from North Valley Pillsbury Road Butte College Bus Transfer
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North rim trail entrance – Bidwell Park loop from North Valley Pillsbury Road Butte College Bus Transfer
02:43
37.7km
170m
Mountain biking
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: May 26, 2026
Tips
Cycling is not permitted along parts of this route
After 7.81 km for 242 m
After 12.7 km for 108 m
After 24.8 km for 108 m
Waypoints
Start point
Bus stop
Get Directions
14.5 km
North rim trail entrance
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
15.6 km
Middle Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
19.5 km
Bear Hole
Highlight • River
Tip by
20.4 km
Yahi Trail junction
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
21.2 km
Upper Park Road
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
24.9 km
Cliffs over Big Chico Creek
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
28.6 km
Bidwell Park
Highlight • Gorge
Translated by Google •
Tip by
30.9 km
The Beach at Big Chico Creek
Highlight • Beach
37.7 km
End point
Bus stop
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
19.6 km
11.5 km
4.57 km
1.44 km
601 m
Surfaces
15.6 km
8.95 km
6.22 km
4.49 km
2.09 km
339 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Thursday 2 July
32°C
17°C
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a challenging and scenic mountain biking adventure in Chico, the North rim trail entrance – Bidwell Park loop from North Valley Pillsbury Road Butte College Bus Transfer delivers. This moderate 23.4-mile (37.7 km) mountain biking route packs in 562 feet (171 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 42 minutes to complete. It's a fantastic option for intermediate to advanced riders who appreciate technical terrain and expansive views.
What to expect on North rim trail entrance – Bidwell Park loop from North Valley Pillsbury Road Butte College Bus Transfer
This route plunges you into the heart of Upper Bidwell Park's rugged landscape, starting with the North Rim Trail. Expect a consistently rocky surface, often described as "lava cap," which makes even gentle climbs physically demanding. As you gain elevation, the trail narrows into a hillside singletrack, offering expansive views of Chico, the Sutter Buttes, and the dramatic Big Chico Creek Canyon. The volcanic rock formations, including the 3 million-year-old Tuscan Formation, create a unique backdrop, and on clear days, you might even spot Snow Mountain in the distance. This trail is a paradise for "chunk lovers" and is best tackled on a full suspension bike with 29er or 27.5+ wheels to handle the unforgiving terrain.
Planning your visit
Accessing this mountain biking route from the North Valley Pillsbury Road Butte College Bus Transfer point suggests a broader approach to reaching Bidwell Park. While designated parking areas like Lot B offer direct access to the North Rim Trail, public transport via B-Line buses, which feature bicycle storage, can connect you from areas near Butte College to various park access points. The North Rim Trail is a key climbing route to more technical trails in the park, so be prepared for a sustained effort. Spring brings wildflowers, enhancing the scenery, but the rocky conditions remain constant.
Trail details
- Distance: 23.4 miles (37.7 km)
- Elevation gain: 562 feet (171 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 2 hours and 42 minutes
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