Bidwell Park in Chico California is ranked as one of the largest municipal parks in the United States, due to its size. Comprised of over 3670 acres of land with many trails and activities for locals and visitors to enjoy, it stretches nearly 11 miles!

Photo by John Peters

Deeded by the community founders, John and Annie Bidwell, Annie dedicated the first parcel of the park to the City of Chico in 1905 when she gave 2,500 acres to the community. Since that time the park has grown and now encompasses lakes, streams, hiking, equestrian and bike trails (nearly 70 miles worth), a swimming lake and many additional spaces for the community to cherish.

Intersected by Manzanita Avenue, the area west of Manzanita Avenue is referred to as Lower Park and the area to the east is referred to as Upper Park. The noticeable difference between Upper and Lower Park is the terrain. Upper Park is located in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. It has steep terrain and contains many rock formations, including the unique Chico Formation sandstone and Lovejoy Basalt rock. Lower Park is flat and level with a thick canopy of trees. In the winter the park can sometimes receive a dusting of snow that makes it look magical, much like an enchanted forest.

To say that Chico and the surrounding community loves its park would be an understatement. Community groups act as guardians, tending to the park's areas requiring special care. Clean-up days are held regularly, as are meetings to discuss the park's stewardship.  Picnics, gatherings and numerous special events are held in the park regularly with many such as the Bidwell Classic (half marathon) celebrating 30 some years.

Many sources are available for information on Bidwell Park. Our favorites include the City of Chico website and Friends of Bidwell Park website.