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Old Homestead
semi-loop

EASY DAY HIKE


5.1 miles  1,100' elevation gain

best season: 
Nov-Apr
but not if snow below:
1,500'
 


0:10 drive

dogs supposed to be on leash


Historically, the south side of the creek was privately owned Simmons Ranch.  Chico's Mayor McGinnis pushed through the effort to acquire the land (doubling the size of Upper Park) from Mr. Simmons and co-owner Dan Drake, a developer.  We are forever grateful

There was a cabin at the pond just off 10-Mile Road.  The pasture extended down to Big Chico Creek.  Most of what we hike on are the ranch's old roads and routes

Hike this just after heavy rain and you may enjoy a flowing Lovejoy Falls (pictured above)

There is a picnic table on the foundation of the old cabin, beside the now-overgrown pond

Tap here for Wildflower Guide

Wildflowers peak in late March or early April

This route is mostly shady, but the hike out is moderately steep, and so is not recommended during the warm seasons.

This hike is in Bidwell Park; owned by the public, managed by City of Chico.  No camping allowed.

 


install Adobe Acrobat, then download (25MB) and send to Acrobat
 


current weather forecast


Street View of trailhead


Maps  (Dec 2019 edition)

Avenza version

Adobe PDF version

KML track of hike