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A fun and challenging traverse on the southern side of Upper Bidwell.


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Map Key

12.7

Miles

20.4

KM

97%

Runnable

1,377' 420 m

High

273' 83 m

Low

1,123' 342 m

Up

1,123' 342 m

Down

3%

Avg Grade (2°)

15%

Max Grade (9°)

Dogs Off-leash

Features Wildflowers · Wildlife

Overview

This route takes you over half of the Annie Bidwell Trail, as well as the sum of Guardian Trail offering great views and excellent singletrack.

Runner Notes

This trail is rocky and has some exposed spots.

Description

This route is a local favorite. Annie Bidwell Trail, Guardian Trail and back makes for a challenging out and back on some of the most scenic trails in Bidwell Park. The terrain varies from smooth dirt, exposed lava cap, and loose, rocky hills.

Start from the end of Centennial Avenue, or park at the 5 mile recreation area nearby and run to the end of Centennial. A short dirt road along Big Chico Creek leads to the beginning of Annie Bidwell Trail, which quickly ascends the to the canyon's southern rim. After a few steep, punchy sections the trail intersects with Guardian Trail.

Guardian leads into a roller coaster section through a tree canopy with a few drainages that offer some exposure. The trail gradually opens back up and comes out from under the trees before intersecting Bloody Pin Trail. Bloody Pin connects to Annie Bidwell Trail as well as the Pine Trail which connects to HWY 32. Eventually, Guardian Trail terminates at 10 Mile House Trail.

After turning around and returning the same way, you'll be rewarded with great views looking back into the valley and canyon - you earned these on the way up!

Flora & Fauna

Look for deer, bobcat, manzanita and abundant poison oak.

Contacts

Land Manager: City of Chico, CA

Shared By:

Jco25 Colby

Trail Ratings

  5.0 from 1 vote

#1695

Overall
  5.0 from 1 vote
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Recommended Route Rankings

#238

in California

#1,695

Overall
14 Views Last Month
2,833 Since Mar 13, 2015
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Photos

Above Bear Hole on Annie Bidwell Trail
Mar 18, 2019 near Paradise, CA
View up canyon of Big Chico Creek from Annie Bidwell Trail.
Jun 20, 2024 near Chico, CA
Bear Hole
Mar 18, 2019 near Chico, CA
Guardians Trail, where the real fun begins
Mar 13, 2015 near Forest…, CA
looking east from the North Rim parking lot
Mar 13, 2015 near Chico, CA
Big Chico Creek
Mar 13, 2015 near Chico, CA

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