Day Trips from Chico
The best excursions and trips you can do in a day
Full-Day Trips
Worth dedicating a whole day to explore.
Lassen Volcanic National Park
35 USD (National Park entry fee per vehicle)This park has a compact, less crowded alternative to some of California's more famous parks. You can see all four types of volcanoes here. Bubbling mud pots, steaming fumaroles, and brilliantly colored lakes fill the landscape. The main park road connects the highlights. You can see the park's geothermal heart in a day. It reminds you that this part of the world is geologically restless.
Lake Oroville & the Feather River
15 USD (mostly for any optional museum entry)The scale of the Oroville Dam, the tallest in the United States, is hard to grasp until you're standing beside it. The visitor center offers views and explains the dam's role in California's water system. Downstream, the Feather River has created a series of cascades and swimming holes. The historic town of Oroville itself has a Chinese Temple complex that reflects the area's Gold Rush past.
Upper Bidwell Park & Chico Canyon
5 USD (parking fee at some trailheads)While technically part of Chico, the upper reaches of Bidwell Park feel a world away. The road winds along Big Chico Creek into a steep, shaded canyon. It's a quick escape. Hike, swim in Bear Hole, or picnic here. You can easily spend a full day exploring the trails without ever leaving the city limits. That's rare for a place like Chico.
The Sierra Nevada Foothills: Nevada City
25 USD (for meals and any museum fees)Nevada City is one of the best-preserved Gold Rush towns in California. Its compact downtown of Victorian buildings now houses restaurants and shops. The surrounding hills are laced with trails leading to old mine sites and waterfalls. The drive up Highway 20 from Marysville takes you right into the heart of the historic mining district.
Mount Shasta
40 USD (primarily for fuel)It's a bit of a drive. The sight of the massive, snow-capped volcano dominating the horizon is worth it for many. You won't summit in a day. Enjoy its base instead. The town of Mount Shasta is a laid-back hub for outdoor gear and health food. Nearby, the headwaters of the Sacramento River bubble up from springs at the base of the mountain.
The Sutter Buttes & Marysville
10 USD (plus cost of any booked guided hike)Often called the world's smallest mountain range, the Sutter Buttes rise abruptly from the valley floor. They're mostly privately owned. But guided hikes are sometimes available through local organizations. The nearby town of Marysville has a historic downtown with a unique system of raised sidewalks due to flood concerns. It's a different, quieter slice of valley life.
Half-Day Options
Shorter excursions when time is limited.
Durham
10 USDThis small, quiet town just south of Chico feels like stepping back a few decades. The main street has a classic diner and a few antique shops. The real draw is the peaceful, pastoral scenery of orchards and wide-open valley views. It's a good option when you want a short drive and a slow pace.
The Honey Run Covered Bridge
0 USDThis historic bridge, one of the tallest covered bridges in the country, spans Butte Creek Canyon. It's a quick photo stop with a nice bit of local lore. The surrounding area has a few short paths down to the creek. Note that the bridge itself is currently closed to vehicles due to fire damage. You can still view it.
The Chico State University Campus & Arboretum
0 USDThe university campus, with its mix of historic and modern architecture, is pleasant to stroll. The main attraction for visitors is the 3.5-acre arboretum along Big Chico Creek, featuring plants from around the world. It's a shaded, serene spot right in the middle of town. Many travelers overlook it.
Table Mountain (Spring Only)
0 USDThis large volcanic mesa north of Oroville is famous for its spectacular spring wildflower blooms, of goldfields and lupines. The bloom is fleeting and depends entirely on winter rains. When it's on, it's a notable sight. Go early. Beat the crowds and the heat.
Day Trip Tips
Make the most of your excursions.
- ✓ Always check road conditions for mountain destinations like Lassen between October and June. Snow can close roads unexpectedly.
- ✓ Summer temperatures in the valley can exceed 100°F. Mountain destinations can be 30 degrees cooler. Pack layers.
- ✓ For trips to Lassen or the foothills, fill your gas tank in Chico. Stations become fewer and farther between.
- ✓ Cell service is spotty to non-existent in the canyons around Upper Bidwell Park and in the mountains. Download maps offline.
- ✓ If you're planning to swim in Bidwell Park or the Feather River, water shoes are helpful for rocky bottoms.
- ✓ Many smaller museums and historic sites in the region are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Plan accordingly.
- ✓ The sun is intense here. Even on a cloudy day or in the mountains, sunscreen and a hat are wise.
- ✓ Grab a casual meal before returning to Chico. Historic Nevada City or downtown Oroville deliver more reliable options than remote park outposts. Plan ahead. The backcountry has slim pickings.
Day Trips Near Sacramento
No bookable experiences in Chico yet, these top-rated picks run from nearby Sacramento.
60 Minute Adventures - The Escape Game at The Galleria
This escape room features 5 original games including Cosmic Crisis, our newest escape room, and Timeliner: Train Through Time which challenges players to zigzag across the past, present, and future. E
Historic Old Sacramento Walking Food Tour
On this guided walking food tour through Old Sacramento you will learn about the California Gold Rush and enjoy tasty treats along the way. See historic buildings and hear about Sacramento's exciting
Wakeboard, Wakesurf or Kneeboard Private Half-Day Adventure
Wakeboard, Wakesurf or Kneeboarding with a no hassle crew. Our drivers are both certified by USCG, MMC and have years of experience in all boarding activities. Whether this is your first time trying
Nevada City Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game
Enjoy a walking tour of beautiful and interesting parts of Nevada City while following clues on your smartphone and solving interesting puzzles along the tour. Play the game on your smartphone with y
Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour of Sonoma and Napa Valley
Download GuideAlong's self-guided audio tour of Sonoma and Napa Valley and uncover the rich history, impressive vineyards, and timeless charm of this world-well-known wine region. Visit well-known win
Private Sunday Brunch Cruise
This is a private Sunday brunch adventure on the Sacramento river. You will be able to customize your stops and locations for brunch and docking. You can choose from various riverfront venues. We are
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