Passport to Paradise: Life on the Ridge 2025

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PASSPORT Paradise

Discover small-town charm and stunning natural beauty a stone’s throw away from big city attractions.

Fastest-growing town in California, 3 years running

20 minute drive to big city amenities in Chico

50% lower home prices than the California average

One-of-a-kind opportunities to build your own home

More land = bigger yards

A Bright Future in Paradise: Commemorating Growth and Vitality

In November 2024, the Rebuild Paradise Foundation unveiled a new, heartwarming piece of public art that captures the spirit and resilience of the Ridge community five years after the Camp Fire.

The “Our Future is Bright” mural project, which features the handprints of 2,583

children, serves as a poignant reminder of how far we have come and the promise of what lies ahead.

The sunset-themed tile mural symbolizes renewal, unity, and the growing number of young lives flourishing here on the Ridge.

Displayed across six large cinderblock walls,

the mural features a vibrant array of 13 glaze colors. Each tile displays a handprint, along with the child’s initials and age as of November 2023, representing children living within the Camp Fire footprint on the fifth anniversary of the Camp Fire.

The idea for the

Paradise Passport 2025

fcrosthwaite@chicoer.com

Darren Holden 530-896-7734 dholden@chicoer.com

Jerry Urban 530-521-4028 jurban@chicoer.com

Charles Ewing 530-896-7721 cewing@chicoer.com

mural was brought to life by three local moms operating the Rebuild Paradise Foundation, Jen Goodlin, Lindsey Churchill, and Staci Galla, who envisioned a meaningful way to honor our progress and future. Partnering with Emily Farmer, who designed the mural using a paintby-number concept, the group created a stunning visual representation of hope and growth.

Beyond its artistic beauty, the project is a testament to community collaboration. The Rebuild Paradise Foundation—a 501(c) (3) nonprofit focused on the recovery and rebuilding of the Ridge—spearheaded the initiative. Generous

contributions from over 37 private donors and a key funding boost from T-Mobile’s Hometown Grant made this dream a reality.

As the Ridge continues to recover, this mural stands as a symbol of strength,

unity, and the bright future ahead. Located at Paradise Community Park at 5570 Black Olive Drive, it invites all who visit to reflect on the community’s resilience and celebrate the growing number of children calling Paradise home.

Introducing the Rebuild Paradise team: Staci Galla, Administrative Assistant; Lindsey Churchill, Project Coordinator and Jen Goodlin, Executive Director.

2025 Paradise Ridge Community Events

Whether you're lacing up hiking boots or dusting off your dancing shoes, the Ridge has it all—outdoor adventures, an unbeatable arts scene, fantastic festivals, and hometown fun for dressing up or dressing down. Below are just some highlights; visit ParadiseChamber.com for a full list.

Year-Round Events

● Paradise Symphony Orchestra –Live and varied performances. Visit ParadiseSymphony.org

● Homespun Holidays –Craft shows in March, July, and November.

● Paradise Horsemen’s Association –Events for equestrians and spectators at the beautiful Moore Road arena. paradisehorsemensassociation.com

● Paradise Art Center –5564 Almond St., Paradise. Exhibitions, wine tastings, classes, and a little free art library.

● Paradise Performing Arts Center –777 Nunneley Rd., Paradise. 770 seat venue hosting a range of events. ParadisePerformingArts.com

● Theatre on the Ridge –3735 Neal Rd., Paradise. Full season of live performances in intimate community theatre. TOTR.org

Parade of American Flags Display: Skyway, Paradise & Magalia

● Independence Day – July 4, 2025

● Memorial Day – May 26, 2025

● Veterans Day – November 11, 2025

Spring Events

● Ridge Cook-Off –March 15, Paradise Veterans Hall, 6550 Skyway, Paradise. 4-course cooking competition. (530) 899-0335, abeehner@bgcnv.org.

● Big Band & Dinner Dance – March 21, Paradise Elks Lodge, 1100 Elk Ln., Paradise.

● Kids Fishing Day Days –April 12, Paradise Lake.

● Gold Nugget Days –April 26-27, A miner celebration! Parade and several related events. gnmuseum.art, 530-762-2613.

● Paradise Chocolate Fest –May 10, Terry Ashe Park, 6626 Skyway. Chocolatefest.us

● Northern California Ballet –A Midsummer Night’s Dream –May 16-17, Paradise Performing Arts Center.

● Homestead & Self Reliance Fair – May 24, Paradise Elks Lodge, 1100 Elk Ln., Paradise.

● Paradise Grazing Festival –June 1, 10AM-4PM, Terry Ashe Pwk, 6626 Skyway, Paradise. Info: laurendeterra@buttefiresafe.net or 530-877-0984.

Summer Events

● Astronomy at the Lake –May 24, June 21, July 26, 6PM. Kayak at sunset, followed by a star tour. Info: (530) 872-6393 or ParadisePRPD.com.

● Paradise Garden Tour –June 7 & 8, ParadiseGardenClub.org

● 4th of July Egg Drop –

July 4. Presented by Moms of the Ridge. Fun for the kids as prize-filled eggs are dropped from a helicopter.

● Pinewood Derby –

July 17, 6:30-8:30PM, Terry Ashe Recreation Center. Kids (preschool-6th grade) build and race derby cars.

● Party in the Park –

Wednesdays, June 11 - July 30, 5:30-8:30PM, Paradise Community Park, 5592 Black Olive Dr. Summer concert series and market. Info: ParadiseChamber.com/party-in-the-park/, info@ParadiseChamber.com, 530-877-9356.

● Music on the Green –Saturdays, Magalia Community Park, Magalia. Free summer concert series next door to Izzy’s –grab a burger and brew and enjoy the tunes!

Fall Events

● Wellness Fair 2025 –September 6, Paradise Stronger. Health and wellness services, screenings, and activities.

● Johnny Appleseed Days –October 5, 10AM-5PM & October 6, 10AM-4PM, Terry Ashe Park, 6626 Skyway. Info: ParadiseChamber.com/johnny-appleseed-days, info@Paradisechamber.com, 530-877-9356.

● Ridge Harvest Festival –October 11. Presented by Moms of the Ridge. Live music, seasonal activities for the kids. Egleson Field, Bushman Rd, Paradise

● Halloween Events –Check ParadiseChamber.com for multiple celebrations.

● Phoenix 5K –November 8, ParadiseStronger.org.

Winter Events

● Parade of Lights – December 6 Info: DADCO Construction (530) 762-2981.

● Christmas Preview – December 6

● Paradise Ridge Chamber Annual Installation & Community Awards Dinner –Date & location TBA.

● Kids on the Ridge Christmas Party –Sponsored by the American Legion, hosted by the Paradise Lions Club.

● The Nutcracker Ballet –Paradise Performing Arts Center, 777 Nunneley Rd. Performed by Northern California Ballet. Info: (530) 872-1719.

● New Year’s Eve Party –Paradise Elks Lodge, December 31.

● Paradise Rotary Crab Feed –February 2026.

If not stated, date and location TBA. For updates, visit ParadiseChamber.com or call 530-877-9356.

Kids on the Ridge: Fun and Learning for All Ages

Families in the Paradise Ridge area have a wealth of activities and programs to choose from for their children. From sports leagues to dance classes, community events, and creative workshops, there’s something for everyone. Below is a snapshot of the programs, organizations, and events that make the Paradise Ridge a vibrant place for kids and teens.

Youth Programs and Classes

• Paradise Recreation and Park District: Offers a wide range of recreational activities, including sports, outdoor adventures, and arts and crafts. Little Wizards' Soccer, Youth Judo, Flag Football, Tiny Tots activities and pre-school. ParadisePRPD.com

• Stagecoach Youth Theatre Program: Theatre on the Ridge's StageCoach Youth Theatre program inspires creativity and self-expression by giving young people a platform to explore their interests and ideas. Totr.org

• Northern California Ballet: Dance instruction in classical ballet with two fulllength performances per year. NorthernCaliforniaBallet.com

• Rotary Interact: Focused on leadership, community service, and building future leaders. ParadiseRotary.org

• Paradise Teen Center: Operated by Boys and Girls Club of the North Valley, enrichment and supportive programming for teens. (530) 966-7488

Youth Sports

• Paradise Little League: Baseball and softball programs for children and teens. ParadiseLittleleague.org

• Paradise Junior Bobcats: -Football and cheerleading. Facebook.com/ ParadiseJuniorFootball

• Paradise Ridge Youth Soccer League: Soccer leagues and clinics for various age groups. ParadiseRidgeSoccer.org

• Paradise Piranhas Swim Team: Facebook.com/ ParadisePiranhasSwimteam/

• Tumbling on the Ridge: A gym for children’s tumbling and basic gymnastics for all skill levels! 1080 Ewald Court, Paradise. (530) 218-3548

Community Centers, Venues and Parks

• Magalia Community Center: A hub for youth programs, family events, and after-school activities. MagaliaCommunityPark.org

• Paradise Playdium: A local hotspot for arcade games, entertainment, and kid-friendly parties and gatherings. ParadisePlaydium.com

• South Pines Disc Golf: A family-friendly outdoor activity perfect for beginners and experienced players alike. MagaliaCommunityPark.org

• Moms of the Ridge: A supportive network that organizes playdates, community outings, and parenting resources. Events and activities: MomsOfTheRidge.org/eventcalendar

• Equilibrium Wellness Center: A space to gather, celebrate, learn, share, connect, and heal offering classes and varied events. ParadiseStronger. org/equilibrium

Parks:

• Aquatic Park: 5600 Recreation Drive, Paradise. Swimming Pool, Pond, Playground.

• Terry Ashe Recreation Center 6626 Skyway, Paradise. Playground

• Bille Park: 501 Bille Road, Paradise. Playground, Hiking Trail

• Moore Road Park - 6705 Moore Road, Paradise. Horse Arena, Dog Park, Ball Parks.

• Paradise Community Park: 5592 Black Olve Drive, Paradise. Playground.

• Clotilde Merlo Park: 22 Retson Rd, Stirling City. Must be seen to be believed!

With such a wide range of activities and events, kids on the Ridge have no shortage of opportunities to learn, grow, and have fun.

Ride the Ridge: Biking Adventures in Paradise

Paradise offers incredible cycling opportunities for riders of all levels—whether you're into road cycling, gravel grinding, or mountain biking. With stunning scenery, quiet roads, and miles of trails, the Ridge is the perfect place to explore on two wheels.

Road Cycling

Paradise is home to some of the best road rides in Northern California. The Wildflower Century, one of the region’s premier cycling events, rolls through town, featuring a breathtaking climb up Honey Run Road. Registration is now open for the 2025 Wildflower Century, happening April 26-27— don’t miss your chance to be part of this iconic ride!

Paved Trails & Family-Friendly Routes

For a more relaxed ride, check out the Yellowstone Kelly Heritage Trail, a major cycling artery through town. This scenic 5.2-mile (one way) paved path follows an old railroad grade, offering a steady climb from Neal Road up to Pentz and Skyway. Extend your ride into Magalia and discover even more trail options, including the Paradise Lake Trail, a dirt path along the lake with stunning views (4.3 miles one way).

Mountain Biking & Gravel Grinding

Love the thrill of dirt trails? The BLM lands off Ponderosa Road offer fantastic singletrack for mountain bikers, complete with loamy trails

and challenging canyon climbs. If gravel and long dirt roads are more your style, you’ll find endless miles of forest service and logging roads to explore in the mountains surrounding Paradise.

Need Gear or Advice?

For bike rentals, repairs, and expert recommendations, visit Paradise Bikes at 6282 Skyway, Paradise and chat with owner Rich Colgin or call (530) 877-3992. You can also reach them at info@ paradisebikes.com.

Get out, ride, and experience the beauty of Paradise on two wheels!

TOTR at 50: A Celebration of Community and Creativity

Since its humble beginnings as a children’s program in the mid-1970s, Theatre on the Ridge (TOTR) has blossomed into a cornerstone of cultural life on the Ridge. What started as a small offshoot of the Paradise Recreation and Park District has grown into California’s oldest community theatre north of Sacramento, now celebrating half a century of artistic excellence and community connection.

TOTR’s journey is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. By 1979, volunteers had transformed an old commercial building into a dedicated performance space, built

entirely on local labor, donations, and the unwavering support of the business community. The first season launched in 1980, and from there, the theatre steadily grew into a vibrant hub of creativity.

Today, TOTR proudly stages seven shows a year, while its youth theatre program continues to nurture budding performers who bring fresh energy and talent to the stage.

To mark its momentous 50th season, TOTR is reaching into its rich history, reviving a beloved show from each decade. Audiences will delight in classics like Bullshot Crummond (1970s), The Foreigner (1980s), Nunsense (1990s), 1940’s Radio Hour (2000s), Radioland’s Return to Paradise (2010s), and Too Many Cooks (2020s). The

theatre will also welcome back cherished alumni—performers and directors who’ve contributed to its remarkable story—to celebrate, reconnect, and inspire the next chapter.

With this milestone season, TOTR honors its legacy of enriching the community through laughter, tears, and timeless storytelling. As the curtain rises on the next 50 years, the theatre’s adventure continues, promising even more unforgettable moments on and off the stage.

Theatre on the Ridge 3735 Neal Rd, Paradise Box Office: 530-519-1768 www.totr.org

2014’s Boeing, Boeing was a comedy of "Airrors."
Radioland's Return to Paradise will be reprised for the 2025 50th Anniversary season.
2024’s Game of Tiaras featured characters inspired by the princess industrial complex.

Rooted in Paradise: Nurseries & Garden Clubs on the Ridge

Paradise Garden Club: Growing Beauty & Community

The Paradise Garden Club (PGC) welcomes all gardening enthusiasts to join its monthly meetings, held on the second Monday at 1:00 p.m. at Terry Ashe Recreation Center. In odd-numbered months, participants bring cuttings, plants, or seeds to share, while even-numbered months feature shared food and snacks.

From daffodil plantings to scholarships for Butte College horticulture students, PGC is dedicated to beautifying the Ridge.

As always, this year’s Paradise Garden Tour on June 7 and 8 will be a vibrant community event.

Visit ParadiseGardenClub.org.

B’s Trees Farm: A Wholesale Nursery Experience

B’s Trees provides high-quality trees for shade, privacy, erosion control, and reforestation projects. Services include delivery, planting, and expert pruning. For a custom touch, join B’s Trees on an escorted wholesale nursery visit to handpick trees and plants that perfectly match your landscaping vision.

Replanting Paradise responsibly, B’s Trees helps bring your vision to life.

8279 Skyway, Paradise (530) 520-7493

Déjà Vu Nursery: Replanting Paradise

With the largest selection of plants in Butte County and a legendary selection of roses, Déjà Vu Nursery is thriving with over 40,000 plants in stock and new arrivals weekly. Their team offers landscape design, delivery, planting, and more.

Seasonal selections include roses, citrus and fruit trees, perennials, Japanese maples, and Zen garden accents. They’re dedicated to rebuilding Paradise—one plant at a time!

5424 Foster Road, Paradise (530) 877-7431

Noble Orchards & Nursery: A Century of Growth

Since 1921, Noble Orchards has been a Paradise staple, producing apples, peaches, nectarines, and a variety of nursery plants. Their offerings include pollinators, herbs, conifer trees, succulents, and the beloved Pink Lady apple trees.

Their historic stone building, built in the 1940s, still stands strong, representing over 100 years of Noble Orchards history and providing a window into the once vibrant apple industry that thrived on the Paradise Ridge.

7050 Pentz Road, Paradise

Follow on Facebook for info and seasonal updates.

Trails of Paradise: Exploring the Scenic Beauty of the Ridge

The Ridge Hiking Association is a vibrant community of hikers and nature enthusiasts dedicated to exploring the natural beauty of the Paradise Ridge. Meeting at various picturesque locations, participants engage in activities such as hiking, snowshoeing, paddling, and backpacking throughout the region. Emphasizing a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere, the association welcomes individuals of all ages and fitness levels to share in the joy of outdoor adventures.

The association organizes hikes on the second

Saturday of each month, led by passionate volunteers committed to promoting health and community engagement. These excursions offer participants the opportunity to discover local trails, appreciate diverse landscapes, and connect with fellow outdoor enthusiasts.

A collaboration that started between Paradise Stronger and the Paradise Recreation and Park District has embraced more like-minded organizations dedicated to fostering a deeper appreciation for the region’s natural splendor.

Upcoming events include treks to Bald Rock, exploration of Table Mountain’s Phantom

Falls, and a hike down the Fork of the Buttes. Each outing is designed to showcase the unique beauty of the Paradise Ridge area, providing memorable experiences for all participants.

Whether you’re an experienced adventurer or new to outdoor activities, the Ridge Hiking Association invites you to join their community. Experience the camaraderie and natural beauty that define life on the Paradise Ridge. For more information on upcoming hikes and how to get involved, visit their website: ParadiseStronger.org/RidgeHiking-Association.

Experience the Spirit of Paradise at Burnt Barn Distilling Co.

Burnt Barn Distilling Co. has opened its Tasting Room to the public, and the community is enthusiastically embracing it!

Melissa Schuster, the owner and a long-time tourism advocate, has crafted a welcoming destination that’s quickly becoming a must-visit spot. In just six months, Burnt Barn has hosted a variety of memorable events—ranging from a seasonal pop-up featuring local artisans to mixers for service clubs and tours for insurance industry officials. It also serves as the namesake and gathering point for the FireWise Neighborhood and is proud to sponsor Theatre on the Ridge’s 50th season.

Looking ahead, Burnt Barn is planning extended hours, more days of operation, and exciting

events such as Food Truck Fridays showcasing local eateries and live music.

Visitors can enjoy tastings, learn about the history of distilled spirits and Burnt Barn’s unique story, and pick up bottles of spirits and branded merchandise. The scenic 18-acre property, featuring

“The Ruins,” two patios, a yearround creek, and a pond, invites exploration and relaxation.

The Tasting Room is currently open Thursday through Saturday from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM—be sure to stop by and experience all that Burnt Barn Distilling Co. has to offer.

Burnt Barn Distilling Co.

195 Wayland Rd, Paradise (530) 228-0941

Distinctive Distilled Spirits –Forged in Fire

The Tasting Room and Official Greeters, John Wick and Tipitina.
Distiller, Max Stecca representing at the TOTR Anniversary Party.
Happy Speakeasy Event Guests, Bill and Pam Hartley with Bourbon aging gently in new, charred oak barrels.

Something’s Brewing in Paradise!

Something exciting is brewing in Paradise—

If you guessed beer, you’d be right. And if you guessed a brandnew brewery, well, you’re right again!

Owners and Paradise residents Jamie Duncan and Jason Pieper have launched Paradise Brew Werks, the first commercial brewery in town, aiming to create something their community can truly take pride in.

The story began in 2014 with a small homebrew kit Jason received for Christmas. Fresh from a major musical accomplishment in Europe, Jason found a new creative outlet in brewing. During visits to Paradise, his early batches quickly gained fans among family and neighbors. By

2017, Jason’s passion for brewing led him to become the founding brewmaster at Lake Arrowhead Brewing, where he honed his skills creating highly acclaimed craft beers. In 2021, Jamie decided to shift her business focus, and together, she and Jason found themselves drawn to Northern California, inspired by Paradise’s resilience after the Camp Fire. Their vision: to contribute to the town’s revival by brewing exceptional beer and giving back to local needs. Paradise Brew Werks has quickly become a local favorite, with beers that are crafted not only to delight the palate but also to support and uplift the community. A portion of sales support Moms of the Ridge,

Paradise Art Center, and Paradise Animal Shelter.

The brand has launched to a great start and isn’t slowing down. The beers can be found all over the Ridge and beyond. Current releases are Strawberry Basil Blonde, Dankstrata, and Ridge Cookies. Each beer produced by Paradise Brew Werks is intentionally crafted to directly support local needs in

Paradise. This commitment to giving back is a non-negotiable principle for the brand. Jason and Jamie are fully dedicated to this mission and are also eagerly preparing to announce an exciting new chapter for Paradise Brew Werks in early 2025.

Visit ParadiseBrewWerks.com online and check our their socials: Instagram: paradisebrewwerks/ Facebook: paradisebrewwerks

Paradise Lake: A Gem of Butte County

Paradise Lake, a stunning 204acre reservoir surrounded by serene natural beauty, has long been one of Butte County’s most cherished outdoor destinations. Paradise Recreation and Park District (PRPD) manages the lake’s recreational amenities and operations and continues to enhance the experience for all visitors.

Located amidst lush, wooded hills, Paradise Lake offers a tranquil escape where visitors can enjoy an array of activities. Paddling and small boat outings (electric trolling motors only) are popular on the lake’s calm waters, while fishing enthusiasts can cast a line in search of trout, bass, and other species. Surrounding the lake are hiking and mountain biking trails, catering to those who love exploring the great outdoors. A shaded picnic area complete with tables, benches, and a play structure provides the perfect spot for families to relax and take in the scenery.

To protect the lake’s vital role as a drinking water source for the community,

certain restrictions are in place: dogs, horses, and swimming are prohibited. The lake is closed on Wednesdays.

PRPD offers a variety of educational and recreational programs designed to engage visitors of all ages. Access to the lake remains easy and affordable.

Visitors can purchase day passes on-site or opt for seasonal parking passes, which are available through PRPD’s park office or conveniently online.

Directions To Paradise Lake:

Located just north of Paradise near Magalia.

• Take Skyway North to Coutolenc Rd.

• Turn right (east) on Coutolenc Rd.

• Follow the road 2.7 miles to Lucretia Rd.

• Turn left on Lucretia Road.

• Follow to Parking Area. 6853 Lucretia Road.

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