Explore Butte County Adventure Guide 2021

OFFICIAL ADVENTURE GUIDE 2021–2022 ExploreButteCounty.com

Let Relaxation Take the Lead

Courtyard by Marriott Chico 2481 Carmichael Dr., Chico (530) 894-6699

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Residence Inn by Marriott Chico 2485 Carmichael Dr., Chico (530) 894-5500

STAY INDULGENT.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites® Chico

2074 East 20th Street Chico, CA 95928 (530) 891-0100 www.hiexpress.com/chicoca

Lake Oroville

550 Oro Dam Blvd E Oroville, CA 95965 (530) 534-5566 www.holidayinnexpressoroville.com

STAY YOU.

TM

EXPLORERS WELCOME

EXPLORERS WELCOME! Hello!

Thank you for taking an interest in learning more about Butte County. I think it's a pretty special place, and once you take a look in our guide, I hope you do, too.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Bruce Spangler [President, Holiday Inn Express Lake Oroville], Brooke Isenberg [Vice President, Marriott Courtyard, Chico], Mohammad Billah [Treasurer, University Inn], Kiran Paragji [Director, Americas Best Value Inn, Oroville], Haroon Saddique [Director,

This is the second annual publication of our visitors guide, and we have made a few changes to the layout that I think are worth pointing out. First, we’ve changed the name of the guide from Visitors Guide to Adventure Guide. Our team has worked tirelessly to bring you stories and inspiration from the best of the area—and you don't have to be a visitor to find a new adventure. We strive to keep the content fresh with each new edition so you can look forward to discovering new adventures every year. Second, we’ve upped our user-generated photo content.

We don’t want you to rely solely on us for telling Butte County’s story, so we’re showing you what others celebrate. (And that means we want you to share your photos with us when you’re here. #ExploreButteCA.) Third, we’re sharing novel stories about resilience and innovation, of how our leaders faced challenges head on and adjusted to create something new. Innovation in Butte County looks different from other areas and we want you to help us celebrate it.

Best Western Paradise Hotel], Analise Uhlrig

As we look forward to what 2021 will bring (so long, 2020!), I am hopeful that you will use the Butte County Adventure Guide to find inspiration (and information) for when you and your loved ones feel free to roam again. Our communities are prepared to welcome you for outdoor recreation, eclectic downtown shopping, delicious patio dining, and an all around warm welcome.

#ExploreButteCA

[Director, Oxford Suites, Chico], Nicole Johansson [Director, Sierra Oro Farm Trail], John Pearson [Director, Chico Velo]

The Official 2021-2022 Explore Butte County Adventure Guide is a publication of Explore Butte County.

P.O. Box 2154, Chico, CA 95927 +1 530.918.4584 ExploreButteCounty.com info@explorebuttecounty.com Carolyn Denero, CTA Executive Director Ashley Baer, CTA Marketing Communications Coordinator Alicia Salas, CTA Outreach Coordinator

DESIGN Porter Co. Agency CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Ashley Baer, Jason Mandly, Michael Riser, Travis Souders

Carolyn Denero Executive Director, Explore Butte County P.S. If you need more inspiration, look us up online at ExploreButteCounty.com.

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Ashley Baer, Results Imagery COVER PHOTO Table Mountain by Steve McDonald

CONTENTS

EXPLORE BUTTE COUNTY | 2021–2022

63 Best Outdoor Spots Voted the most popular locations by our fans, look here to create your ultimate Butte County outdoor adventure.

For the Love of Salmon 20

LOCALLY GROWN

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

10

88

Agricultural Past Meets Present For the past 150 years, Butte County has been an innovative agricultural leader in California.

Experience the Farm 91 Take Home the Bounty 93

Fall into Butte County Birding 24

Growing Innovation 94

Building Innovation 32

Butte County Crops 97

50

80

Restaurants Rising

to the

Challenge

Working overtime to keep up, stay open, & serve everyone a good meal has been a task like no other for restaurants in 2020.

Pints & Pours 52 Brewing Innovation 56

EXPLORE LIKE A LOCAL

FOOD & DRINK

Bidwell Park Swimming Holes 22

Campus Exploration Butte County offers a robust collegiate experience for students, alumni, fans, & visitors alike.

Out & About in Butte County 26 City Profiles 36 Beyond the Bustle 46

Food on Four Wheels 62

Four-legged Fun 78

66

98

Restoring the State Theatre The State Theatre Arts Guild is working to return the building to its original appearance & ambiance.

On Display at Chico State 70 Arts & Culture Abound 72

PLANNING YOUR STAY

ARTS & CULTURE

Restaurant Week 2020 60

Stay a While Find the perfect lodging in your budget for your trip to Butte County.

Event Inspiration 102 Meeting Spaces 104

Mural Mania 76

Wedding & Event Spaces 105

A Few of Our Favorite Things 84

Getting to Butte County 108

EXPLORERS WELCOME

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN VISITING BUTTE COUNTY IN 2021

When you visit Butte County, you’ll find much of what was always here—beautiful vistas and hikes, cool creeks and swimming holes, and expanses of hiking and biking trails.

As it was for everyone in California, 2020 was a challenging year for Butte County; between COVID shutdowns and a historic wildfire season, businesses and attractions worked harder than ever to serve their local communities and visiting guests.

With the coronavirus likely to remain part of our reality well into 2021 and seasonal wildfires part of life in California, here’s what to expect when visiting Butte County in 2021:

THE BEAUTY OF BUTTE COUNTY IS ALWAYS AVAILABLE When you visit Butte County, you’ll find much of what was always here—beautiful vistas and hikes, cool creeks and swimming holes, and expanses of hiking and biking trails. Even when we are dealing with our share of wildfires, with over one million acres in the county, there’s always wide-open spaces available for exploration.

EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED If 2020 taught us anything, it’s that we need to be flexible and ready for unexpected changes.

So as you’re planning your trip, make sure to check out the Explore Butte County website, the local chambers of commerce, and regional national forests for the latest updates as well as the social media accounts of the places you plan to see before you visit.

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www . explorebuttecounty . com

You have dozens of clean and safe lodging options to choose from when planning to spend time in Butte County, so book a few nights and explore Chico’s vibrant Downtown, stroll through Oroville’s historic riverside district, antique shop in Paradise, or experience outdoor adventures great and small throughout the county.

For the best information about hotel availability, visit ExploreButteCounty.com/stay.

MASK UP OR GO VIRTUAL While the coronavirus lingers, masks will be the must-have accessory while traveling, especially for indoor activities. They’re the best way to help keep the local community safe and businesses open for everyone’s enjoyment. And for attractions that aren’t yet open due to state

@HERIMAGY

@AL_MAHAFFEY_PHOTOGRAPHY

THERE ARE PLENTY OF PLACES TO HANG YOUR HAT

restrictions, or just aren’t ready to open, you can often find virtual offerings to enjoy while you’re in town or back home.

IT’S ALWAYS A GREAT TIME TO VISIT Whatever the season, you’ll always find great activities to enjoy. From splashing around in urban swimming holes in the summer to enjoying snow in the higher elevations in the winter to visiting for one of our many events throughout the year, Butte County is the place to be.

Plus, every time you visit, you support the thousands of local residents who work in the tourism industry and help fuel our local economy.

Want to see for yourself? Come visit—and bring your friends.

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EXPLORERS WELCOME

LET US SHOW YOU THE WAY With 1,636 square miles of land, 41 sq. miles of water, 4 cities, 1 town, 17 census-designated places, and 11 unincorporated communities, there’s always more to explore in Butte County. Plan your next adventure (and how to get there) today!

RICHVALE

www . explorebuttecounty . com

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UPPER BIDWELL PARK

@SALINAFAITH

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PHANTOM FALLS @L.SQUARED.PRODUCTIONS

PULGA

@RADB0II

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FEATHER RIVER

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@GREG_WEATHERS

OREGON CITY

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LOWER BIDWELL PARK @TRACI_ROCK

@THEWEEKENDJETSETTER

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LAKE OROVILLE

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@SIMPLYHANNAHRAE

JONESVILLE

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GRAY LODGE @STOKED_ON_ADVENTURE

@KEEFOTOS

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DURHAM

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@PATTIRANSDELL

BILLE PARK

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BIGGS @K.STARMER

@SWEET_BREEZE4

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BERRY CREEK

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@LINDABOELMAN

BANGOR

B

@CAROLINALOUISE8

@ABTWID

A

*Butte County is to scale while the surrounding counties are not

North Lassen National Forest

G

Red Bluff

Butte Meadows

Quincy

TEHAMA COUNTY

PLUMAS COUNTY Paradise Lake

Magalia

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Feather River

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(South Fork)

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Forb

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2

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SUTTER COUNTY

YUBA COUNTY

Yuba City

official adventure guide

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OUTDOOR ADVENTURE loved by locals

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LOWER BIDWELL PARK www . explorebuttecounty . com

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JESSICA NICOLE BARTLETT

official adventure guide

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

63 BEST OUTDOOR Spots in Butte County

Looking to create your ultimate Butte County outdoor adventure but not sure where to start? Look no further than our list of the 63 Best Outdoor Spots, as voted on by Facebook and Instagram fans during March Madness 2020. Popular locations across four brackets—Parks and Recreation, Water Spots, Hiking and Adventure, and Scenic Beauties and Viewing—competed for the top spot, and these are the results. Whether you work your way through the list numerically or geographically, you’ll have a great time visiting any of these winners.

KEY [PR] Parks and Recreation

[HA] Hiking and Adventure

[WS] Water Spots

[SC] Scenic Beauties and Viewing

BIG CHICO CREEK ECOLOGICAL RESERVE

VINTAGE VIEWS While some of Butte County’s favorites are closed to visitors in 2021 due to recent wildfires, you can still enjoy these vintage views and get inspired for your trip when they’re open again.

#1 FEATHER FALLS SCENIC TRAIL [HA] & #3 FEATHER FALLS [SC] It’s no surprise that these two finished at the top of their brackets at #1 and #3 overall: the scenic trail to Feather Falls is a beautiful and challenging 7-to-9-mile hike, while Feather Falls has been called the “most beautiful waterfall in California outside of Yosemite” by the San Francisco Chronicle. Looks like it really is about the journey in this case (though the destination is close behind).

#24 BALD ROCK [SC] A granite batholith just like Yosemite’s famed Half Dome, Bald Rock is a prominent fixture along the skyline of certain parts of Lake Oroville and is particularly visible from Feather Falls.

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www . explorebuttecounty . com

@_KELSEYLYNNM

@WHITETOM

BALD ROCK

#45 DOME TRAIL [HA]

BIDWELL-SACRAMENTO RIVER

Dome Trail plunges nearly 1,600 feet in a little over 2 miles to reach the Middle Fork of the Feather River just underneath Bald Rock Dome. And given the strenuous trek back, this really is a trail for experienced hikers only.

#21 CURTAIN FALLS [SC] Those able to endure the difficult Dome @KALLIEDGRIFFIN

Trail hike will discover Curtain Falls, featuring smooth, natural granite water slides and clear emerald water.

#30 BUTTE CREEK ECOLOGICAL PRESERVE [HA] Located along the middle section of Butte Creek, the Butte Creek Ecological Preserve is a 93-acre site home to many species of special status, viewable during hikes through the area.

FEATHER FALLS

CHICO #4 BIDWELL-SACRAMENTO RIVER STATE PARK [PR] Bidwell-Sacramento River State Park is the most popular Butte County park for good reason: water, sunshine, lazy days tubing down the river with your best buds...need we say more?

#12 BIG CHICO CREEK ECOLOGICAL RESERVE [HA] Containing nearly 4,000 acres of diverse canyon and ridge habitats and home to a variety of species of plants and animals, Big Chico Creek Ecological Reserve makes for a beautiful location for nature viewing.

#23 HOOKER OAK PARK [PR] @CA.LOVE.FORNIA

Featuring play equipment for 2-to-5-yearolds, handicap accessible play equipment for those 5-12, picnic areas, and more, Hooker Oak Park is a pleasant spot for families to spend a few hours.

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OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

#34 DEGARMO PARK [PR] With youth softball fields, turf fields, a playground, a dog park, and picnic areas, DeGarmo Park is always a happening place.

Introduce your four-legged friend to new buddies, watch a game, or simply enjoy the community park vibe.

LOWER BIDWELL PARK

#36 CHICO SEED ORCHARD [PR] Enjoy a relaxing stroll through the international woodland at Chico Seed Orchard. Originally an outdoor research facility for hundreds of plants from around the world, many of them still grow in the 209-acre botanical gem. Read more on pg. 24.

#48 COMMUNITY PARK [PR] Community Park is South Chico's premier public recreation facility, providing an ideal setting for recreational sports, public outings, and leisure activities.

#49 LLANO SECO UNIT [SC] Llano Seco Unit consists of nearly 1,800 acres that support large populations of wintering waterfowl.

#53 SHERWOOD FOREST DISC GOLF [PR] Located in Hooker Oak Park, the Sherwood Forest Disc Golf course is made just for children (and beginners of all ages), who will love the 9-hole Robin Hood-inspired course.

#62 CHICO COMMUNITY OBSERVATORY [SC] Contemplate the stars and the sky at the Chico Community Observatory, where you can explore the universe firsthand and free of charge.

BIDWELL PARK #8 YAHI TRAIL [HA] The pedestrian-only Yahi Trail is perhaps the most popular trail

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www . explorebuttecounty . com

@JOSEPHKEARNSPHOTOGRAPHY

LLANO SECO UNIT

MONKEY FACE

in Bidwell Park. The Upper Bidwell Park favorite provides beautiful views along Big Chico Creek, leading all the way to Bear Hole.

#19 NORTH RIM TRAIL [HA] Despite being one of the longest trails in Upper Bidwell Park, the North Rim Trail is a pretty easy hike since the grade is gradual and well-established. With sweeping views of the park and rocky lookout point, it’s a great trail for most hikers and bikers.

#22 PEREGRINE POINT DISC GOLF [PR] With arguably some of the best views in Upper Bidwell Park, Peregrine Point Disc Golf offers 18 holes traversing a varied terrain overlooking the Sacramento Valley and Chico Creek Canyon.

#25 LOWER BIDWELL PARK [HA] Flat and level with a thick canopy of trees, Lower Bidwell Park is perfect for easy, leisurely strolls and bike rides that everyone in the family can enjoy.

#26 CAPER ACRES [PR] The iconic Lower Bidwell park for children under 13, Caper Acres is a magical location, featuring a crooked house, a pirate ship with a sea monster, and so much NORELIAC

more.

#32 GUARDIAN TRAIL [HA] Expert cyclists will enjoy the exposed single track that is the Guardian Trail, which is all downhill with some extreme drop-offs along the trail edges and views of Chico Creek Canyon below and valley to the west.

#38 MONKEY FACE [SC] An easy 15-minute walk in Upper Bidwell Park will take you to Monkey Face, a popular rock formation from which you can enjoy scenic views of the rest of the park.

#41 ANNIE BIDWELL TRAIL [HA] A 4.4 mile out-and-back in Upper Bidwell Park, Annie Bidwell Trail is best enjoyed in the spring, with the wildflower blooms, and the fall, with the colorful foliage.

@RUDY530

TIM OLSON

ANNIE BIDWELL TRAIL

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OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

SWIMMING HOLES The swimming holes in Bidwell Park are arguably the most popular features in the park (at least during the summer). Read all about #6 Salmon Hole [WS], #17 Brown’s Hole [WS], #18 Five Mile Recreation Area [WS], #31 Alligator Hole [WS], #59 Sycamore Pool [WS] on pgs.

22-23.

#2 BEAR HOLE AND DIVERSION DAM [WS] Easy access, cool waters, and plenty of space for sunbathing makes Bear Hole and Diversion Dam the favorite Butte County spot for water recreation (and the favorite of all of Bidwell Park’s urban swimming holes).

#43 YURTING IN BUTTE MEADOWS [HA]

SNOWMOBILING

@KEEFOTOS

HIGH COUNTRY Run by Chico State’s Adventure Outings, the backcountry yurt in Butte Meadows makes

for a special outdoor adventure—while you’ll have the covering of a settled yurt, you’ll definitely still be roughing it.

#50 PACIFIC CREST TRAIL [HA] Butte County’s 12-mile stretch of the Pacific Crest Trail sits near the halfway point of the trail’s total 2,653 miles, and the 6-mile hike between Humboldt Summit and Humbug Summit features particularly amazing views of the surrounding mountains.

#55 SNOWMOBILING IN JONESVILLE [HA] During the winter, Jonesville becomes a winter wonderland, perfect for hiking, snowshoeing, and, especially, snowmobiling. Hang out at Jonesville Snowmobile Park or venture out to Colby Mountain Lookout for a full day of fun!

#56 COLBY MOUNTAIN LOOKOUT [SC] Located in Butte County’s high country, Colby Mountain Lookout provides a panoramic view of Lassen National Forest.

#57 HUMBOLDT PEAK [HA] At Humboldt Peak, nearly the highest point in the county, enjoy a short hike to the 7,087-foot peak and 360-degree views of faraway places.

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www . explorebuttecounty . com

EVE MCDONALD

RIVERBEND PARK

@DUMPLINGWANDERS

@IHATEMONDAYSANDTUESDAYSANDWEDN

WILD & SCENIC HWY 70

OROVILLE #10 WILD & SCENIC HIGHWAY 70 [SC] There’s no prettier road trip through Butte County than on the Wild & Scenic Highway 70 Feather River Byway. Running along the middle fork of the Feather River, one of the original wild and scenic rivers in the country, Highway 70 is a drive worth enjoying.

#14 OROVILLE WILDLIFE AREA [PR] A popular spot for fishing, wildlife viewing, and hunting, the 11,000-acre Oroville Wildlife Area offers an abundance of riparian viewing along the Feather River and grasslands around Thermalito Afterbay.

#16 LAKE OROVILLE [WS] The second-largest reservoir in the state, Lake Oroville is the go-to spot for boating, jet and water skiing, bass fishing, and general water enthusiasts when the weather warms.

#20 FEATHER RIVER FISH HATCHERY [PR]

BEAR HOLE

The Feather River Fish Hatchery plays an important role in sustaining the population of salmon and trout in the river, but it’s also just a fun place for a visit! Read more on pg. 20-21.

#35 LOAFER CREEK RECREATION AREA [PR] Loafer Creek Recreation Area has 137 tent campsites, @AYSUSOLMAZ

a boat launch, equestrian trails, and more, making it a popular spot on the shores of Lake Oroville any time of the year.

official adventure guide

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OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

FOREBAY AQUATIC CENTER

#40 FOREBAY AQUATIC CENTER [WS] Those looking for a spot for kayaking, rowing, or stand-up paddleboarding fun for all ages will want to head out to Forebay Aquatic Center.

The calm waters of Thermalito Forebay make it a perfect place to bring the whole family or try something new.

#46 RIVERBEND PARK [PR] So named for its prime location along the Feather River in Oroville, Riverbend Park features 210 acres of park space, including a boat launch, sandy beach disc golf course, picnic areas, playground, and more.

#51 BRAD FREEMAN TRAIL [HA] The Brad Freeman Trail is a 41-mile adventure around the Oroville area that offers a huge variety of scenic vistas and day trip options Visitors will enjoy a variety in both scenery and trail conditions.

@CLAIRE.KOSKI

for hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians.

#52 BIDWELL CANYON MARINA [WS] Another popular boat launch area on Lake Oroville, Bidwell Canyon Marina offers all that anyone could need for a full day of lake fun—

RAVINE FALLS

boat rentals, camping, boat storage, a bar and grill, and more.

#54 BIDWELL BAR SUSPENSION BRIDGE [SC] When locals talk about the Bidwell Bar Suspension Bridge, they’re usually referring to one along State Route 162, which is both a beautiful icon and a place for unique views of the lake. However, the original Bidwell Bar Bridge from 1855 also still stands today near Bidwell Canyon Marina and is open for foot traffic.

#61 CLAY PIT SVRA [HA] Two miles west of Oroville, the Clay Pit State Vehicular Recreation Area is a playground for dirt bikers, ATV riders, and 4x4 enthusiasts.

www . explorebuttecounty . com

@ZAPLIPZACH

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#63 LAKE OROVILLE VISITORS CENTER [SC] Located atop Kelly Ridge and overlooking the lake and the dam, the Lake Oroville Visitors Center is an interpretive museum showcasing the dam and region’s history. It also has a 47-foot viewing tower, with two high-powered telescopes, where you’ll enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of the lake.

WILDFLOWERS AND WATERFALLS If you’re visiting Butte County in the spring, a trip to the North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve is an absolute must. Just make sure to buy your CDFW Lands Pass online before your visit!

#5 TABLE MOUNTAIN [SC] For wildflowers and waterfalls, there’s no better place than Table Mountain. During the rainy season, dozens of waterfalls flow, and springtime covers the ecological reserve with wildflowers as far as the eye can see.

#9 PHANTOM FALLS [SC] So named for its ephemeral nature, Phantom Falls only flows during the rainy season, when you can watch it flow 166 feet off the edge of Coal Canyon. It’s beautiful and fleeting, which makes it all the more striking to see it in person.

#11 MANY WATERFALLS CROSS-COUNTRY LOOP [HA] With at least nine, and up to 14, waterfalls after a rainfall, the challenging Many Waterfalls Cross-Country Loop lives up to its name. Just make sure to go right after it rains.

#27 RAVINE FALLS [SC] One of the few other waterfalls you’ll see on the way to Phantom Falls, Ravine Falls (aka, Fern Falls) is a 71-foot waterfall with a beautiful flow during the rainy season.

@MRGIBBZEE

@CARLAPICS

TABLE MOUNTAIN

BIDWELL BAR BRIDGE

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OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

PARADISE LAKE

PARADISE RIDGE #7 BILLE PARK [PR] With towering trees for shade yet lots of sunny spots, plus parks for the kiddos and a view overlooking Butte Creek Canyon, Bille Park is a local favorite for good reason.

#13 CLOTILDE MERLO PARK [PR] At just 20 acres, the beautiful Clotilde Merlo Park in Stirling City, open May through October, is a must-visit if you’re exploring Paradise Ridge.

#29 BUTTE CREEK WATERSHED OVERLOOK [SC] The Butte Creek Watershed is home to KELLY SUTTON

high green meadows, pools and riffles, and a miniature "Grand Canyon"-view of Butte Creek, with a spectacular overlook vista on Skyway.

Tucked amidst the pines, Paradise Lake is a postcard-perfect picture location for relaxed walking, hiking, or boating along

@AIRRICKPHONG

#33 PARADISE LAKE [WS]

the 4.5-mile trail on its western shore. With gorgeous conifer woodland surrounding the shoreline, you might even spot a bald eagle or a bear.

GRAY LODGE

#44 LAKE CONCOW [WS] Hidden in the Sierra/Cascade foothills, Lake Concow is a beautiful place to visit, fish, or camp. Tall trees provide shady camping, fishing along the lake shore, or picnicking along the banks of the creek.

#60 LAKE DESABLA [WS] Located on the north side of Magalia, Lake DeSabla is a small and calm location perfect for fishing for planted rainbow trout or simply enjoying the views.

SOUTH COUNTY #37 LAVENDER RANCH [PR] You’ve never really smelled lavender until you’ve taken a tour at Lavender Ranch, where you’ll learn about not only lavender but the 15 other botanicals grown and distilled on-site in Biggs. Reservations are required, so make sure to plan ahead.

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www . explorebuttecounty . com

@ARISTOTLE_CUSTOM_HOMES

SACRAMENTO RIVER

@CERVANTESWENDY

SLY CREEK RESERVOIR

#47 GRAY LODGE WILDLIFE AREA [SC] During the winter bird migration season, a drive to Gray Lodge Wildlife Area in Gridley is a must.

But any season you visit, the walk and wildlife are worth the visit. Make sure to buy your CDFW Lands Pass online before your visit.

#58 UPPER BUTTE BASIN WILDLIFE AREA [SC] Considered one of the finest wetland habitat complexes in North America, the Upper Butte Basin Wildlife Area acts as a resting place for wintering migratory birds as well as a popular hunting location.

WATER WAYS #15 FEATHER RIVER [WS] The Feather River feeds and creates Lake Oroville, and the North, South, and Middle Forks are wild rivers perfect for fishing, kayaking, and white water kayaking.

#28 SACRAMENTO RIVER [WS] Butte County’s share of the Sacramento River has some of the best river recreation in the state!

Enjoy tubing, boating, and fishing adventures as well as hundreds of acres of protected riparian habitat.

#39 (AND #42) SLY CREEK RECREATION AREA [PR] & SLY CREEK RESERVOIR [WS] Tucked away in the eastern corner of Butte County, the remote Sly Creek Recreation Area attracts campers, anglers, and flatwater boating enthusiasts. The recreation area’s centerpiece is Sly Creek Reservoir, which is surrounded by conifer-lined shores and features emerald-hued water just begging to be swimmed in.

From the southern border to the northernmost corner, there’s so much to discover in Butte County.

With our 63 Best Outdoor Spots as your guide, plan a weekend or two (or definitely more) to come and explore the best of Butte County.

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OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

For the Love of

SALMON Loved and celebrated by locals, visitors, nature enthusiasts, and anglers alike, salmon are special in Butte County, specificallythe Chinook, which makes the area its home salmon. Unlike most fish, salmon, including Butte County’s beloved Chinook, are anadromous—meaning that they hatch in freshwater streams, migrate to the ocean to feed and grow, then return to fresh water to spawn the next generation. The salmon returning to Butte County from the Pacific

FISH HATCHERY

Ocean travel almost 200 miles to make that trip!

The largest migration of fall-run Chinook salmon occurs during September and October. The Feather River Fish Hatchery in Oroville is a great place to visit any time of year, but it shines during the fall run. On the eastern side of the hatchery, you can

93-acre portion of this important habitat. Springrun Chinook salmon can also navigate up Big Chico Creek into Bidwell Park. The spring run peaks May through June.

come face-to-face with the returning fish at

GET UP CLOSE

underwater viewing windows and watch as

Get an up-close view of Butte County’s

they attempt to jump up the barrier dam.

migrating salmon during the fall run via kayaks

The western side includes the fish spawning

throughout the county. On the Feather River,

rooms, hatchery, and rearing ponds where

launch at the fish hatchery under the Table

millions of Chinook salmon are cared for and

Mountain Boulevard bridge. Stay nearby or

eventually released. Guided tours

head downstream for a relaxing 2-mile paddle

are available Monday through Friday,

to Riverbend Park, where you’ll be sure to see

but you can enjoy self-guided tours any day

salmon jumping out of the water. Check out

of the week.

the Forebay Aquatic Center for guided tours

Come spring, Butte County is one of the few

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Preserve, operated by Chico State, protects a

throughout the season.

places left in California where threatened

For longer adventures, paddle the Feather

spring-run Chinook salmon can spawn

River 7.3 miles downstream to the Thermalito

naturally. The Butte Creek Ecological

Afterbay outlet, 8.7 miles to the Vance Avenue

www . explorebuttecounty . com

DEPARTMENT OF WATER RESOURCES

and is considered the king of wild Pacific

SALMON KAYAK TOUR

DEPARTMENT OF WATER RESOURCES

@SALMONSACRIVER

SALMON FESTIVAL

parking area in the Oroville Wildlife Area, or 17 beautiful miles from the Feather River Fish Hatchery to the Gridley boat ramp for the ultimate Feather River experience. For flat water adventures, check out the landlocked salmon population in Lake Oroville, Thermalito Forebay, and the Thermalito Afterbay.

CELEBRATE SALMON Butte County loves its salmon run so much that every year, Oroville celebrates the return of fall-run Chinook salmon during the Oroville Salmon Festival. Always taking place on the fourth Saturday in September, it’s a celebration of all things salmon, and visitors can view the salmon run at the fish hatchery, enjoy a street fair, taste various salmon dishes, and more.

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OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

SALMON HOLE

Bidwell Park

SWIMMING HOLES For those looking for a spontaneous water adventure without any floating devices required, head to Chico’s Bidwell Park, where Big Chico Creek runs through it year-round. There, you’ll find the best urban swimming holes in California—bold statement, but you’ll see for yourself why it’s an easy one to make with more than half a dozen natural pools to choose from. Ranging from accessible for the entire family to remote and wild, there’s a swimming hole for every explorer.

From easy to challenging, explore the most popular swimming holes in Bidwell Park: SYCAMORE POOL: The most accessible of all the swimming holes, this is a concrete pool built around Big Chico Creek, making for a unique swimming experience. In the summer, the cool creek water is a refreshing contrast to the heat.

FIVE MILE RECREATION AREA: Find a kid-friendly swimming hole that is wider, shallower, and calmer than swimming areas upstream. With easy restroom and picnic area access, it’s easy to see why this is a family favorite.

ALLIGATOR HOLE: The first designated swimming hole in Upper Bidwell Park, it’s a tame stop along Yahi Trail, perfect for young hikers or for cooling off one last time after a long hike.

BEAR HOLE & DIVERSION DAM: Deep pools connected by rushing chutes of water surrounded by a natural rocky playground make this the most talked about feature in the park.

SALMON HOLE: The most scenic swimming experiences in the area, with one of the largest natural pools on Big Chico Creek and many enjoyable side pools, also requires more work to get there, with a longer hike and steeper and more rugged final approach.

BROWN’S HOLE: The most remote designated swimming hole in the park requires a 2-to-3 mile hike to access, but you’ll enjoy an almost wilderness setting when you get there.

loved by locals

SYCAMORE POOL A man-made concrete pool built around Big Chico Creek.

@AYOUNG104

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Trip Tips 1.

Bring water, sunscreen, and towels.

2. Wear sturdy water shoes—flip-flops are no match for basalt rock and raging waters.

3. While the water is wet, the park is dry, so leave the alcohol at home.

@HATEFULOFHOLLOW

@GALEN.GOES

BEAR HOLE

YOU'LL FIND THE BEST URBAN SWIMMING HOLES IN CALIFORNIA @SELENAHENNESSEY

ALLIGATOR HOLE

STEVE MCDONALD

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OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

Fall into Butte County

BIRDING

species of birds have been recorded, and the

By Jon Aull

lot at Horseshoe Lake, the 4-mile (one-way)

Yahi Trail along Big Chico Creek particularly dazzles. Starting just downhill from the parking Yahi Trail runs along Big Chico Creek, a major thoroughfare for the downslope fall bird

Butte County is extraordinarily rich in bird diversity, with over 300 resident and migratory species. While each season has its highlights, fall is my favorite time for birds: the nights cool, migrating birds return from their mountain breeding habitats, and leaves dropping from the trees makes it easier to spot birds in their lofty perches. Here are three of my favorite spots for fall birding among the fall colors.

migration. While there are plenty of year-round avian residents, in fall we welcome back our “snowbirds” that are migrating toward more available food and water sources, such as: white and golden-crowned sparrows, darkeyed juncos, the tiny hyperactive ruby-crowned kinglets with their distinctive eye rings and mostly hidden red crest, impeccably coiffed cedar waxwings, and yellow-rumped warblers, the least shy of the warblers. Fall colors start with the spectacular poison oak, which starts to

COLBY MEADOWS

turn in late summer in dry spots, an example of

Beginning in October head up to the

a drought-deciduous plant. Although our native

higher elevations of Colby Meadows, about

California plants are not well known for their

an hour’s drive from Chico just past Butte

fall color, California grapes and western redbud

Meadows. The West Branch of Butte Creek

can definitely add a bit of ambience to autumn

there is lined with black oaks and big-leaf

ambling.

maples turning vibrant reds and yellows.

Along the creek, you can find the American dipper doing squats in rushing water, and you might be lucky enough to see it dip under water to catch aquatic insects or fish eggs. At the Colby Meadows/Jonesville Snow Park, follow the sound of running water to the trail and the meadow, where the black cottonwoods can be a brilliant yellow. Some of the birds here will stay through the harsh winter, while others will be moving down below the snowline soon. Look out for the inquisitive mountain

CHICO SEED ORCHARD One of the best autumn scenes in Chico is at the end of Cramer Lane, where you’ll find the entrance to the Mendocino National Forest Genetic Resource and Conservation Center.

Mercifully renamed the Chico Seed Orchard, there you can see a great variety of exotic trees, such as kiwis and edible pistachios. The center started as a research facility for experimental introductions but today mainly grows conifer seeds for wildfire recovery and watershed restoration.

chickadees, raucous Steller’s jays, elegant

Perhaps because of the odd mix of trees, the

evening grosbeaks, the dashing white-

birding here can be quite productive, and

headed woodpeckers, and more.

rarities tend to show up here. Red crossbills took up an extended residence a few years

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UPPER BIDWELL PARK

ago. In September 2020, there was a summer

In Upper Bidwell Park, more than 160

tanager here and a long-eared owl made a brief

www . explorebuttecounty . com

JON AULL

EVENING GROSBEAK

JON AULL

appearance just outside the gates in October 2020. The birdlife here is similar to Bidwell Park. Other common sights are: one of the largest congregations of robins in Chico, brown creepers, golden crowned kinglets, and varied thrushes. The center has regular visitor hours and a locking gate.

So get out and enjoy the season. There’s no better time to fall for Butte County birds.

Jon Aull has a master's in parks and natural resources from Chico State and has worked in environmental education in Chico for 15 years.

WHITE-HEADED WOODPECKER

Trip Tips Seasoned birders know that anyone can get into this easy activity, and that it’s a great way to explore places you’ve never been! Here are a few tips to get you started:

1.

Wear comfortable walking shoes, bring binoculars, and download a birding app.

2. Dress for the elements and the season.

3. Respect the habitat and minimize your footprint so that everyone can enjoy the space.

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We invite you to visit the “City of Trees”. Whether you are planning a trip to hike and bike in Bidwell Park, attend California State University, Chico, or relocate here, the Chico Chamber Visitor’s Center welcomes you!

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180 E. 4th Street, Suite 120 Chico, CA 95927 530.891.5556 www.chicochamber.com

OUTSIDE IN BUTTE COUNTY

@ANDREA_RVIIZ

@LEEANNAAUSTIN

@RYANLUNDBERG

@ITSELLIS

@DANI_A_JONES

@IENJOYTHERIDE

@NORCAL_SOURCE

@DANI_DAWES

@H2ORANGE

@ENKI.I

@NADIA_VORSV

@ARTURO7S

@CHICONATIVE official

@NATALIEARIANA adventure guide 27

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

OROVILLE DAM

Scale, Power, & Innovation

@JASONWEINRICH

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IT’S A GREAT SPOT FOR A PICNIC LUNCH...

DEPARTMENT OF WATER RESOURCES

@GREG_WEATHERS

For an appreciation of scale, power, and innovation, few outings in Butte County are more fulfilling than a tour of the Oroville Dam. Tucked in the hills of Oroville, the Oroville Dam doesn’t call attention to itself. More attention is paid to the lake it creates, full of boating and water-skiing enthusiasts, and to the rivers that flow downstream, for their own renowned water recreation opportunities.

But in the shadows of its flashier sister attractions stands a behemoth of the State Water Project: at 770 feet, it’s the tallest dam in the nation (not just the tallest earthen dam, a common misconception). It retains about 3.5 million acre-feet of water in Lake Oroville—1.1 trillion gallons— and distributes it to the entire Sacramento Valley, and has since its completion in 1967. And its mostly concrete core barrier was reinforced with 80 million cubic yards of earth, one truckload at a time.

To really appreciate those numbers, though, a visit to the dam is a must. The drive up the dam’s mountainous ascent above the spillway provides a view straight down the spillway, showcasing a sheer mass of

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OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

concrete cascading down the side of the dam

adorned with telescopes in each cardinal

like a 12-lane superhighway longer than the

direction overlooking the dam, reservoir,

length of six football fields. A little farther up

and valley.

the road, what looks like a sprawling, concrete amphitheater is actually an enormous secondary emergency overflow area.

Atop the dam, you’ll want to make sure you have a camera and even binoculars with you because the vantage point from 770 feet offers 360 degrees of viewing. It’s a great spot for a picnic lunch at one of the rest areas atop the spillway; a bike ride or a hike down some of the easily accessible near the launch ramp; or a few moments spent admiring the vistas to the south or the hawks (and occasional eagles) gliding over the lake.

While the dam may seem like a stand-alone marvel, it's really part of a major network of water management systems and local tourist points, all of which are fascinating in their own right and are a must-visit if you’re touring the dam.

LAKE OROVILLE VISITORS CENTER 917 Kelly Ridge Rd, Oroville An ode to the construction of the dam and

SPILLWAY BOAT RAMP & DAY USE AREA Located at the end of Oroville Dam Road Boaters visiting the spillway’s boat launch ramp not only get the chance to see the behemoth spillway in person, but also can access the lake’s largest launch facility—eight to 12 lanes, depending on the water level, and nearly 400 total parking spaces. Those staying on dry land will enjoy the well-shaded picnic area with outstanding views of the lake and the Sutter Buttes, and it even has newly installed educational value with displays detailing the reconstruction of the spillway.

FEATHER RIVER FISH HATCHERY 5 Table Mountain Blvd, Oroville Get an up-close view of migrating salmon in the fall and spawning trout in the spring at the Feather River Fish Hatchery. Enjoy self-guided tours as you learn about the conservation work being done, or schedule a guided tour for the best experience (read more about the hatchery on pg. 20).

reservoir is on display at the Lake Oroville

If you’re interested in a tour of the dam or the

Visitors Center, an office and exhibit complex

hatchery, contact the Department of Water

highlighted by a spiraling viewing tower

Resources at 530.534.2306.

FEATHER RIVER FISH HATCHERY

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@OROVILLECHAMBEROFCOMM

LAKE OROVILLE VISITORS CENTER

loved by locals

SPILLWAY BOAT RAMP & DAY USE Access to the lake's largest launch facility with picnic areas and stunning views of the Sutter Buttes.

LAKE OROVILLE

KELLY RIDGE

@CHASONW

DEPARTMENT OF WATER RESOURCES

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OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

BUILDING INNOVATION

By Michael Riser

If you’ve ever visited Butte County, you’ve undoubtedly enjoyed the work of the Paradise Recreation and Park District (PRPD). Covering 172 square miles, PRPD is a sprawling area that hosts a concentrated wealth of Butte County’s gorgeous tree-lined hill country, and it’s the district’s mission to open as much of it to visitors as possible.

MOTHER (NATURE) OF INVENTION PRPD has adapted to the last few uncertain years with the help of District Manager Dan Efseaff, who saw his department lose 60% of its staff after 2018’s Camp Fire, and is soon to lose much of the funding that has supported the district since. Yet rather than being slowed down by the long list of challenges, the district has bounced back to face its problems with everincreasing vigor and enthusiasm, an energy typical of

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loved by locals

PARADISE LAKE A pristine gem tucked among the pines in Magalia.

@SAMBINO68

@RHIANNON.TICE

Butte County residents who have pulled

BLAZING NEW TRAILS

themselves up and dusted themselves

Innovation for PRPD has come to mean

off with cheerful, determined hearts

thinking outside the box. Any terrain

despite recent setbacks.

with steep inclines, abundant fuels

PRPD is focused on revitalizing resources that have long been underused, and with social considerations becoming ever more important, it believes it can ease the burden on some of Butte County’s more crowded locations.

Many area trails and parks are all but hidden to visitors, so making better, more thoughtful use of existing public land is at the top of its priority list, right alongside creating new and better spaces to augment what’s already on offer.

(such as trees or dry grasses), and high winds is a fire risk, particularly if those factors make it difficult for fire crews to gain access, yet it’s these spaces that PRPD sees as packed with potential.

Improvements can reduce the risks they pose, but can further turn them into landscape-scale buffer spaces that offer active protection to local communities. This is vitally important to Butte County, where dry conditions have caused ongoing frustrations but the breathtaking landscapes and outdoor recreation spaces are important to both

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OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

"Reworking some of these spaces not only helps us protect our communities, but also gives us that amazing access to resources that are there but tough to get to."

-Dan Efseaff, PRPD District Manager

residents and visitors. PRPD also hopes its work will create new models that can be used in other vulnerable parts of the state, using Oak Creek Park as an example, where a purchase of 3 acres will provide new access and higher visibility for an underused 17-acre gem that helps protect its community.

A COORDINATED COMMUNITY Efseaff and his team aren’t going it alone by any stretch. One of its major upcoming projects is a 15-to-20-mile looped trail system running along the Magalia Reservoir to Paradise Lake. It plans for the majority of the trails to be shaded—a rarity at this elevation—with a variety of difficulty levels for walking and mountain biking, from family-friendly to advanced, yet creating this fantastic new asset has already required extensive planning and negotiation with no fewer than six different landowners. Another consortium for a study on trails included over a dozen partners from varied backgrounds, like the Nature Conservancy, California State University, Chico, the US Forest Service, and Explore Butte County.

PRPD is seeking dynamic partnerships like its recent cooperative effort with the Paradise Irrigation District at Paradise Lake. While lake recreation has been under PRPD’s care for only six months, it’s already gaining steam and has been a boon to the public in the time of COVID. It allowed for the successful Astronomy on the Lake program, where 30 kayakers took a guided tour of the stars with Dr. William Koperwhats, a professor at CSU Chico’s Community Observatory. The program brought in people from as far as Sacramento and Colusa, and was so popular there are already plans for more instances of the event next year.

A PARADISE FOR EVERYONE While PRPD always keeps local residents in mind, its improvements are made for everyone with a love of the outdoors that the landscapes of Northern California always inspire. With the eyes of the world on Butte County in the last few years, many have seen how much there is to offer, and PRPD wants to make sure all those who visit have the best, safest spaces to enjoy.

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“Together, We Rise” The culture of Paradise Ridge is defined by vibrant performing arts, beautiful parks, rich history, and a resilient community.

GOLD NUGGET MUSEUM The Gold Nugget Museum mission is to preserve and protect the Paradise Ridge heritage through its collections, artifacts, and community education programs. During the dark weeks and months after the Camp Fire, there was never any doubt that the Gold Nugget Museum programs would be resumed as soon as possible. The Museum now invites you to visit to not only learn about Ridge history, but to become part of that history as the new pioneers on the Paradise Ridge.

THEATRE ON THE RIDGE In a miracle among the total devastation of the Camp Fire to the Paradise community, the beloved little playhouse still stands. Celebrating 45 years on the Ridge, Theatre on the Ridge feels so fortunate and blessed to still be here, and looks forward to providing healing through the arts and much needed love and light for the community as Paradise rises anew from the ashes.

PARADISE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE As a volunteer organization of business people sharing local pride, professional expertise, and commitment to progress, the Paradise Ridge Chamber of Commerce celebrates the fact that the Paradise Ridge is back in business. Supporting members and events that inform, uplift, and unite the region, the Paradise Ridge Chamber of Commerce invites visitors to discover for themselves the unique spirit of The Ridge as it continues to rise.

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CITY PROFILE

CHICO SPOTLIGHT

While California State University, Chico and Sierra Nevada Brewing Company may have put Chico on the national radar, anyone who’s spent more than an afternoon here knows that the city is so much more than its flagship attractions. It’s a sleepy agricultural town turned bustling city center, full of dreamers and innovators, performers and artists, unique shops, bars, and eateries, and one of the largest urban parks in the nation. Explore the lively and popular Downtown, full of the students that give the city its ever-present “college town” feel, or venture beyond to discover a variety of different neighborhoods and districts, each with their own unique vibe to enjoy. Wherever you find yourself, you’ll see why Chico is the urban activity center of Butte County.

ALSO KNOWN AS City of Roses FOUNDED 1860 by John Bidwell BEST KNOWN FOR Chico State University, Sierra Nevada Brewery @TBEAR008

TOP ATTRACTIONS AND EVENTS Bidwell Park, Downtown Chico, National Yo-Yo Museum, Thursday Night Market, Taste of Chico READ MORE

Bidwell Park Swimming Holes [Pages 22-23] Brewing Innovation [Pages 56-58] @EDUB1924

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On Display at Chico State [Pages 70-71]

CHICO WHY I LOVE

with

KASEY REYNOLDS

@KAIT.PALMER

Kasey Reynolds’s family has been in Chico since 1937, when her great-uncle Leonard Shubert came to Chico from Montana to follow his dream of opening an ice cream shop. Reynolds currently works full time as the fourth-generation owner of Shubert’s Ice Cream and Candy.

WHAT MADE YOU DECIDE TO STAY IN CHICO? I was lucky enough to be able to go to our wonderful Chico schools, grow up a block from Bidwell Park, and a few minutes from Downtown. I left briefly to work in corporate America and decided Chico was where I wanted to raise my family so my kids could have the same great childhood that I did.

DESCRIBE CHICO TO SOMEONE WHO HAS NEVER BEEN HERE? Chico is the largest city in Butte County; it has a friendly small-town feel but with all of the necessities you need. We have one of the largest

@CHICO_HOTSPOTS

urban parks [Bidwell Park] in the US that is truly the Crown Jewel of our City!

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with

@INSURANCEGUY

CITY PROFILE

OROVILLE WHY I LOVE

ALBERTA TRACY

Since 1971, the “Lady of Butte County” has called Oroville home. As a member of the Butte County Historical Society , Tracy dresses up as local historical characters and is a beloved fixture at many of their

HOW DID YOU FIND YOURSELF IN OROVILLE? WHAT MADE YOU STAY? My husband, Russell Guiver, and I came to Oroville in 1971 from Long Beach with our three children. It was very exciting moving to Oroville! It was like coming out West. I stay because I love Oroville. I always felt that God sent me here!

DESCRIBE OROVILLE TO SOMEONE WHO HAS NEVER BEEN HERE? Oroville is a charming little town with some great specialty shops, lovely parks, many museums, a river, a restored 1930 hotel, a restored 1928 theater, old restored homes, parades, a lake, and a Downtown that is lit up with lights day and night, good restaurants, nice people, a historical society, and room to grow!

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@CA.LOVE.FORNIA

events.

OROVILLE SPOTLIGHT With a past (and name) gilded in gold, today Oroville stands as a community rich in history and outdoor recreation. The gateway to Lake Oroville features easy-rolling hills, natural water features, and scenic hiking trails, perfect for easy-to-access day trips.

Water skiers, swimmers, kayakers, boaters, fishers, and more find plenty of options for play and leisure throughout the year, while ever-flowing and seasonal waterfalls provide picture-worthy hiking opportunities. For calmer explorations, Oroville’s Downtown offers a peek into the city’s past with a variety of museums: from highlighting Gold Rush pioneers and immigrant populations to celebrating the region’s native tribes and natural history, you’ll discover the depth of the city’s roots at under-the-radar gems. Add a few stops at one of the many modern shops, restaurants, or bars, and you’ll enjoy the full Oroville experience.

@SABRIIINA_C

ALSO KNOWN AS City of Gold; also formerly Ophir City FOUNDED 1854; incorporated 1906 BEST KNOWN FOR Lake Oroville, Table Mountain, Butte College

Oroville Dam, Chinese Temple, Feather River, Forebay Aquatic Center, Historic State Theatre, Bidwell Bar Bridge,

CHINESE TEMPLE

TOP ATTRACTIONS AND EVENTS

Lake Oroville Visitors Center, Salmon Festival, Feather Fiesta Days READ MORE

For the Love of Salmon [Pages 20-21] Oroville Dam [Pages 28-31] Restoring the State Theatre [Pages 66-69] official adventure guide

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CITY PROFILE

PARADISE SPOTLIGHT

Nestled among forested terrain along an elevated ridge, the Paradise Ridge area—locally known as “The Ridge” and comprising the Town of Paradise and community of Magalia— has a decidedly small-town and secluded feel, and is uniquely determined to retain its long-running reputation of quaintness. On The Ridge, you’ll discover a breathtaking natural landscape, American flag-lined streets on servicemember holidays, annual events and museums celebrating the region’s Gold Rush past, and a deep-running love of the locally owned small businesses among those who live there. But most importantly, you’ll discover that despite the challenges that the area faced and continues to deal with in the wake of 2018’s Camp Fire, community kinship, love of the surrounding natural habitat, and resilience and determination persist on The Ridge.

@WAYN3_G

ALSO KNOWN AS The Ridge; also formerly Leonards Mill, Paradice FOUNDED 1877; incorporated in 1979 BEST KNOWN FOR Paradise Lake, Daffodils

@EVIL_LITTLEBLONDE

TOP ATTRACTIONS AND EVENTS Gold Nugget Museum, Joy Lyn’s Candies, Theatre on the Ridge, Gold Nugget Days, Johnny Appleseed Days READ MORE

Building Innovation [Pages 32-34] The 63 Best Outdoor Spots in Butte County [Pages 10-19] ALLISON UPTON

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@ONDREYUH1

PARADISE WHY I LOVE

with

JODY HARTLEY

On October 10, 2018, Jody Hartley and her husband, Glenn, bought Joy Lyn’s Candies, a Paradise institution since the 1960s, from Glenn’s parents. On November 8, the Camp Fire raged through Paradise, taking the Hartleys’ home and store. Two years later, Jody and Glenn were finally able to reopen at a new Paradise location, and have been busy ever since.

DESCRIBE PARADISE TO SOMEONE WHO HAS NEVER BEEN HERE? Paradise is a community of hardworking, friendly people. We are blessed to have the slow way of life up here. There is still beauty up here, even if most of our trees have come down.

WHAT WOULD PEOPLE BE SURPRISED TO LEARN ABOUT PARADISE? This community has become closer since the fire. Everyone supports each other and we try to keep our dollars up here. We will see our town grow.

DESCRIBE PARADISE IN 10 WORDS OR LESS? Paradise is friends, football, BBQs, and fun!

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CITY PROFILE

GRIDLEY WHY I LOVE

with

TYRONE (TY) SHAFFER

Ty Shaffer is the great-great grandson of pioneers who settled in the Gridley and Pennington areas in the 1850s. He’s a retired speech therapist who loves history, art, and museums and has volunteered for various a docent at the Gridley Museum.

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE PLACES IN GRIDLEY TO SHOW OUT-OF-TOWN VISITORS? I would share the Gridley Museum with visitors, a walk around the town, Gray Lodge, and a visit to the Cordi Winery in the Sutter Buttes.

WHAT WOULD PEOPLE BE SURPRISED TO LEARN ABOUT GRIDLEY? Libby, McNeill and Libby [today simply known as Libby’s] once canned peaches, pumpkins, and tomatoes in the cannery located at the end of Virginia Street.

WHAT MAKES GRIDLEY UNIQUE? WHY? To me, Gridley is a community that still represents the spirit of my youth. Events and businesses have come and gone, but there is still a community spirit that lingers, like the Christmas Parade and Red Suspenders Day.

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@MSLOWLA

organizations since the 1980s. He is currently

GRIDLEY SPOTLIGHT Gridley is proud of its small-town charm and invites you to discover for yourself why its city motto is “The Small Town That Loves Company." Its quaint Downtown features historic buildings, locally run shops, and a hyper-local history museum showcasing the deep community roots. Gridley has also held on to a farm-centric lifestyle in many ways since its founding by a sheep rancher. Driving just minutes in any direction from town, you’ll find yourself in wide-open spaces filled with rolling rice fields and lush green orchards. Gridley’s fairgrounds are home to the annual county fair and hunters, fishers, and other enthusiasts flock there for the area’s sporting opportunities, especially at the favorite Gray Lodge Wildlife Area. So as you’re cruising along Highway 99, enjoy a little detour and discover what the gateway to Butte County has to offer.

@TAYLORRITA

ALSO KNOWN AS The Small Town That Loves Company FOUNDED 1870; incorporated 1905 BEST KNOWN FOR Butte County Fair, Gray Lodge Wildlife Area

Gridley Museum, Red Suspender Days, Sutter Buttes views, Historic Downtown Gridley, Casa Lupe Mexican Restaurant

@JESSICAFOREVERMILLER

TOP ATTRACTIONS AND EVENTS

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CITY PROFILE

BIGGS SPOTLIGHT In Biggs, there is perhaps no more fitting symbol of the town than its iconic water tower.

The tiny (pop. 1,724) farming community relies on its ample access to land water to irrigate its abundant and diverse spate of fertile farmlands, particularly rice lands. With rice lands, as well as walnut orchards, surrounding the city on all sides and rice dryers and mills dotting the pastoral landscape, it’s no surprise that Biggs is known as the “Heart of Rice Country.” With its agricultural focus, Biggs tends to forgo commercialism in favor of a quaint, quiet feel for the people who live there, with the main drive B Street, lined with historic buildings, busiest during the city’s annual 4th of July celebration. It’s a classic American experience in a small agricultural town happy to stay that way.

@THECOLONIABUILDING

ALSO KNOWN AS Heart of Rice Country; formerly Biggs Station FOUNDED 1871; incorporated 1903 BEST KNOWN FOR The Lavender Ranch, Sunwest Milling, Red Top Rice Growers

WHEELER RANCH AND FEED

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TOP ATTRACTIONS AND EVENTS B Street, Colonia Hotel, 4th of July Celebration

@THECOLONIABUILDING

BIGGS WHY I LOVE

with

DONNA BAYLISS

Since 1983, Donna Bayliss has been the president and owner of Bayliss Ranch, a successful rice and botanicals producer, including the popular Lavender Ranch line of products.

@FARMERS_HILL_PHOTOGRAPHY

DESCRIBE BIGGS TO SOMEONE WHO HAS NEVER BEEN HERE? A person might not think of a middleAmerica farm community existing in California, but it is common here in Northern California. Biggs is the picturesque small-town farm community with grain silos and tractors on the street.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SEASON IN BIGGS? WHY? It’s hard to choose between planting and harvest time, but both are magical.

Breaking the ground for planting reminds you of a birth, especially as a farmer, and the life cycle that ends in harvesting is celebrated as much as a birth. Rewards of your efforts are seen so clearly in the bounty of a harvest.

DESCRIBE BIGGS IN 10 WORDS OR LESS? Independence with water, food, utilities.

Family life. Recreation, hunting, fishing.

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CITY PROFILE

BEYOND THE BUSTLE

DISCOVER HISTORY & ACTIVITY IN THE UNINCORPORATED COMMUNITIES @DONTWORRYIMAEXPERT

NORD

CHEROKEE INSKIP @KAYYYCI

BUTTE MEADOWS

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BERRY CREEK

@WIZARDSISTER

In its earliest years, Butte County was home to mining and saw milling and was a prime stopover point for stagecoaches and rails serving those industries and the communities that grew around them. As the county developed, those industries faded, and with them, much of the economic source of the communities. However, while the major industries that once supported the areas were gone, small pockets of residents remained in these unincorporated communities to create new versions of their once bustling towns.

Butte Meadows, for example, developed around the Sierra Lumber Company and was a summer resort location for those living in Chico, San Francisco, and other cities. However, with the lumber mill and resorts long closed, the small hamlet in the northernmost region of the county is today home to fewer than 50 people. During the summer, its higher elevations offer a cool reprieve from the valley summer heat, while its location in the snow-covered Lassen National Forest makes it a popular destination for winter day trips, especially with stops at local favorites The Outpost and The Bambi Inn. Nearby Inskip was a gold rush destination most famously supported by its inn. A popular stop for miners traveling through in its heyday, the town now has a population so miniscule it doesn’t move the census and only a few small buildings, including the rebuilt (and, if rumors are true, haunted by an arsonist-hunting ghost) Inskip Hotel, now on the National Register of Historic Places.

Just a few miles south, Stirling City originated in 1903 as a milling destination for the Diamond Match Co. from Ohio. For 70 years, Stirling City’s major economic driver was its sawmill, which closed in the 1970s. Today, the town is home to just about 300 people.

Visitors can enjoy a visit to Clotilde Merlo Park May through October. @WYATTDEANDA - AUG 2020

South of Chico, Durham was originally established in 1917 as an experimental cooperative agricultural colony, and maintains much of that agricultural lifestyle today.

Dotted with large homesteads and featuring a variety of orchards, it’s not out of the ordinary for visitors seeking a rural break to enjoy a day wine tasting at the Durham Wine District or intimate farm experiences at a generational family farm.

Cherokee was once home to Maidu Native Americans before gold miners set up camp.

Thanks to one of the state’s most productive hydraulic mines, the town’s population once reached the thousands. But the mine was short lived, closing before the turn of the 20th century. Today, all that remains are a cemetery, the Cherokee Museum, and a population of about 70.

East as the bird flies, Berry Creek has been many things over the years—a gold mining camp, a stagecoach stop, a lumber town, a vacation spot. Today, it’s home to retirees wanting a quieter life and those who want to live a little off the grid. Locals will tell you that it’s more a zip code than a defined place. In September of 2020, a wildfire tore through the area, displacing the 6,000 people who called it home. Many are eager to return and rebuild, demonstrating the grit so common to the community.

On the Butte-Yuba line in the southeast corner of the county, Bangor is home to just under 700 people. Founded in 1855 as a mining boomtown by homesick travelers from Maine, today Bangor is enjoying a mini wine industry boom. The particularly fertile agricultural region has a well-deserved place on the famed North Sierra Wine Trail. You can enjoy a day tasting at a variety of wineries in the Bangor Wine and Spirits Region.

Though the industries at the foundation of these places are long gone, the unincorporated communities that remain are home to plenty of history and activity beyond the bustle of the cities.

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FOOD & DRINK loved by locals

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NIC'S www . explorebuttecounty . com

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Restaurants:

RISING TO THE CHALLENGE To say that 2020 was a year like no other would be an understatement—just ask our restaurants. With shutdowns, shelters-in-place, reopenings, and reclosings, 2020 saw Butte County restaurants of all sizes working overtime to keep up, stay open, and serve everyone wanting a good meal. While some had to shut their doors for good, many more discovered new ways to make the best out of an uncertain situation.

TAKEOUT, TAKEOUT, TAKEOUT Across the county, restaurants upped their takeout offerings. Many, such as Chico’s Tender Loving Coffee, Pizza Riot, and Italian Cottage and Oroville’s Early Bird Donuts, launched online ordering or delivery options for contactless dining, while drinks-to-go in reusable mason jars meant that you could enjoy your favorite margaritas from Tres Hombres or the featured draft at The Lab Bar and Grill. Cities jumped in to help as well, creating dedicated curbside parking spaces for easy pickup for the explosion in to-go options.

AL FRESCO DINING Those still wanting a safe dine-at restaurant experience delighted at the increase in outdoor dining options. Remodels and openings meant new permanent patio spaces at Rawbar Restaurant & Sushi and Oroville’s new Union Restaurant, while others, like Red Tavern in Chico, expanded their outdoor dining spaces. And many of those without the space or resource for permanent solutions took advantage of new regulations to allow for dining in

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2020 saw Butte County restaurants of all sizes working overtime to keep up, stay open, and serve everyone... the street. “Parklets” created with barricades

cooking themselves but still support their

in former parking spaces sprung up

local restaurants found deals at 5th Street

throughout Chico, such as at Momona and

Steakhouse, which selling cuts of meat. For

Naked Lounge, while other restaurants,

food fun and activities all in one, Shubert’s

such as Franky’s, Basque Norte, and

Ice Cream & Candy and Sweet Chico

Durham’s Almendra Winery & Distillery

Confections offered DIY sweet treat kits for

set up service in their parking lots.

kids (and kids-at-heart) to enjoy at home.

FAMILY MEALS & MORE With all the time spent at home in 2020, feeding the family got a little tedious, so restaurants, such as Bacio, Crush, and Paradise’s Nic’s stepped up with tasty family meals. Those wanting to do the

After the year that was 2020, no matter how the situation changes throughout 2021, Butte County restaurants will be ready to serve you, and they can’t wait to open their doors to welcome you for indoor dining again.

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Butte County’s Beer & Wine Scene

PINTS & POURS loved by locals

SECRET TRAIL BREWING CO. A community-focused, locally sourced brewery making both the classic styles and original innovations.

@SECRETTRAILBREWINGCO

The Commons Social Empourium 341 Main St, Chico

British Bulldog Brewery 14540 Camaren Park Dr, Chico British Bulldog was conceived from a passion to make British style brews in the traditional way using techniques from the 1700's.

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At The Commons you are in control of your own pour.

Whether it’s a taster, a half glass or a full pint, it’s easy to find your favorite beer.

Each tap has a screen describing what you’ll be tasting. Top off your glass and gather around for a friendly conversation at our community tables or venture outside for games on our dog-friendly patio.

Chat with the makers themselves, and take a bottle or two home to savor after your trip is over...and to get inspired for your return.

Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or wine

evolution of a craft brew explosion in Chico,

connoisseur, you’ll find plenty of choices while

where today you’ll find ample taprooms, tasting

in Butte County.

rooms, and breweries.

Hops fans will want to check out Chico, where

Many of the small breweries dotting Chico,

all beer talk in the area starts with Sierra

such as Secret Trail Brewing Co. and Mulberry

Nevada Brewing Company (read more on pg.

Station, are in more industrial areas, offering

56-58), the most well-known brewer, and often

a more casual experience with a markedly

synonymous with Chico as the home of the

different vibe from a college bar. Tasting rooms,

craft brewing industry. While its flagship Pale

such as the Chico Taproom, The Commons

Ale received a lukewarm response upon its

Social Empourium, or The Lost Dutchman

initial offering in 1980, Sierra Nevada eventually

Taproom, offer a range of local brews. And

rose to the top of the craft brewing world,

even while Downtown, you can enjoy a pint at

sparking a renaissance across the country.

laid-back, more adult locations, such as Nor Cal

In Butte County, though, it’s really been in the

Brewing Co. or the English-inspired Allies Pub,

last decade that a community of educated

featuring its own British Bulldog Brewery label.

beer drinkers with a taste for smaller breweries

The growth in smaller brewers and breweries

developed. Most noticeable has been the

has also seen the rise of beer alternatives, such

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FOOD FOOD && DRINKS DRINK loved by locals

ALMENDRA WINERY & DISTILLERY Butte County's first combined winery & distillery.

@ALMENDRA_WINERY

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BUTTE COUNTY’S WINE SCENE IS QUIETLY BUT QUICKLY MAKING A NAME FOR ITSELF.

as ciders from Lassen Traditional Cider

Purple Line Urban Winery downtown

and Cellar Door Cider, as well as gluten-

and Long Creek Winery and Ranch just

free rice ales and lagers from Eckert

minutes from Lake Oroville.

Malting and Brewing.

Organic wines also feature prominently

@MOTHEROFFELINES

Not to be outdone, Butte County’s wine

in the local wine scene, thanks to breezy

scene is quietly but quickly making a

valley winds that mean growers can use

name for itself as well. Thanks to fertile,

sulfur as a natural fungicide or even none

deep topsoil and high valley heat that

at all. Some of the more renowned organic

brings out the sugars and intensifies

wineries in the county include Nascere

the flavor of classic European varietals,

Vineyards and Dog Creek Cellars, located

growers have found success in the region.

in Durham, and LaRocca Vineyards, all of

Oenophiles can enjoy tastings from about

which have been featured on the Sierra Oro

20 wineries and vineyards across the

Farm Trail in recent years.

county, particularly in the agricultural hotbeds in Durham, Oroville, and Bangor, which each boasts an enviable list of wine purveyors and growers. The four-winery Durham Wine District and three-winery Bangor Wine Region make for great tasting day trips, while Oroville offers several independent wineries, such as

Whatever your preference, make sure to explore Butte County’s breweries and wineries during your visit and discover for yourself the local tastes, chat with the makers themselves, and take a bottle or two home to savor after your trip is over... and to get inspired for your return.

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BREWING INNOVATION

By Michael Riser

Sierra Nevada Brewing Company is known all over the world for their delicious varieties of beer, but they’re also one of the brightest jewels in Butte County’s crown. To this crew of beer-loving entrepreneurs, innovation means loving where you are, being loyal to your biggest fans, and always honoring your roots, even as you push forward with new ideas.

A DEEP LOVE OF COMMUNITY For co-founder Ken Grossman and his family, Butte County runs in their blood. When the 2018 Camp Fire devastated Paradise, Sierra Nevada was quick to offer necessities to those who lost their homes, in addition to creating the Butte Strong Fund with several partners, and starting a brewing project that would encompass scores of other brewers all donating 100% of its funds to the cause. Ken and his wife, Katie, also donated 10 acres

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loved by locals

SIERRA NEVADA BREWING Craft Brewing Pioneers with a love for their community.

@SIERRANEVADA

to the Butte Humane Society for the building of a new facility.

It’s a symbiotic relationship, as it’s the community that gave them the reach they currently enjoy. Before their international renown, locals would travel and carry their favorite beer along with them, and road-tripping students from California State University, Chico would

A LOCAL FLAVOR TO THE LEADING EDGE That community heart means that when the brewers look at innovation, it isn’t merely to expand production; it’s a determination to find better ways of doing business, a commitment that has led them to look at the whole of their business from top to bottom.

often bring brews to music festivals and

Their Chico Fermentation Project

social gatherings. Yet Sierra Nevada

created the organic Strainge Beast Hard

remains a thoroughly local product:

Kombucha—the first non-beer beverage

instead of relocating to a larger facility as

made by the company, realized

the company has grown over the years,

through a partnership with Oregon

they’ve focused on reinvesting in the

State University’s Fermentation Science

Chico brewery that made them famous,

program. But they also look at more

expanding the boundaries of its capacity

routine things, which has advanced

and capabilities.

their vision of the brewery complex with

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"Innovation makes us more efficient, makes us a better brewer, and also aligns with our consumers."

-Terence Sullivan, Sierra Nevada Brand Manager

the aim of making it as self-sufficient as possible. A solar array covers about 20% of their power needs, and their Waste Stream Initiative helps them recycle cardboard, stretch wrap, and rubber gloves used in the lab and bottling line, keeping 99% of their waste out of landfills. They work with hop and grain growers to maintain salmon-safe practices and to avoid pesticides. Carbon dioxide is recovered from the fermentation process and reused in pressurizing tanks, much like the biogas generated by their anaerobic digester— which pretreats wastewater headed to the municipal system—gets used as fuel in their boilers.

The Chico Taproom, where visitors can grab a delicious meal to go with a fresh pint, features vegetables grown in Sierra Nevada’s own organic garden and greenhouse. What they don’t grow themselves, they source so locally it often comes from within a 10-mile radius: Chico State’s University Farm supplies produce, Llano Seco supplies pork, and Mary’s Chickens supplies poultry—the menu even has some options for vegans. There are also free charging stations for electric vehicles in the parking lot, open to public use.

COME FOR THE BEER, STAY FOR A TOUR With this perennial focus on the local, Sierra Nevada has also looked near to hand when crafting new beer. The Baltic Joy Porter uses local almonds from Maisie Jane’s, and the Sierra Oro Farm Trail Harvest Baltic Porter uses almonds, local Lundberg rice, barley from Sierra Nevada’s own fields, and some of the extremely popular peaches from Chico State’s University Farm.

The biggest fans will want to come to the taproom to experience beers that don’t normally get a wider release, or archived beers pulled up from the back catalog of past brews. Sierra Nevada is working hard to improve their small canning line to allow for more of these special brews, pushing toward a goal of monthly or bimonthly smallbatch releases by early 2021. Those who have taken advantage of Sierra Nevada’s groundbreaking virtual tours and tastings but still want to see everything in person—as soon as conditions allow—2021 will be a perfect time to visit.

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Support your local favorites or expand your taste bud horizons during Butte County Restaurant Week. With only 10 days of specials, you should start mapping out your menu options today!

For more info: ExploreButteCounty.com/RestaurantWeek adventure 59 Butte County Restaurant Week - always celebratedofficial the last 10 daysguide of January

FOOD & DRINK

BEST OF RESTAURANT WEEK 2020

Twenty-five restaurants showcased their "Perfect Pairing" for the 2020 Butte County Restaurant Week. While all created delectable bites, the following restaurants were rated most highly by the diners.

STANDOUT SERVICE

BEST VALUE

BURBAN KITCHEN AND NIC’S (TIE)

NIC'S

Under the guidance of locally renowned

New to the restaurant scene in Paradise,

(then) head chef Ann Leon, Burban

Nic’s went hyper-local for Restaurant

Kitchen wowed visitors with not only their

Week, showcasing local apples from Noble

delicious Pork Belly Bahn Mi Tacos and

Orchards in Paradise and chardonnay from

Serrano Chicli Daiquiri, but also their stellar

Spencer Shirey Wines in Bangor.

service.

roll pairing! It was fresh and delicious. The

service at Burban Kitchen. I was greeted

presentation was beautiful, the wine was

upon entering, seated promptly, enjoyed

a delight, and the food couldn't have been

our waiter, and the food was served

better. I was amazed at the price being so

promptly."

affordable too!”

OVERALL PERFECT PAIRING

MOST CREATIVE PERFECT PAIRING

CRUSH AND ALMENDRA WINERY & DISTILLERY (TIE)

ALMENDRA WINERY & DISTILLERY

Popular for its Italian cuisine, brick-oven

With four meal specials and two wine and

pizzas, and extensive wine list, Crush

spirit flight pairings, Almendra went all out

delighted diners with a two-course dinner

for Restaurant Week, and diners loved the

special, offering three options for each

abundance of options!

course.

What they had to say: “The dish was

What they had to say: “I had the sea bass

magnificent, the wine was to die for.

entree with a pinot grigio pairing. The food

Together, the two met in a whole new,

was excellent and the wine was a perfect

extravagant way.”

match.”

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What they had to say: “I loved the lobster

What they had to say: “Always excellent

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BURBAN KITCHEN

NIC'S

ALMENDRA

CRUSH

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FOOD ON FOUR WHEELS Finding food trucks in California has never been easier, and Butte County happily claims its share of delicious mobile options to choose from! From tasty tacos to savory barbecue to juicy burgers (and more), you’ll find the perfect food truck in Butte County. Don’t believe us? Here are some real Google and Yelp reviews from real diners raving about just a few of the many delicious mobile food spots available. When you’re ready to grab some grub, we recommend a quick location check on Facebook.

Meehos Regularly at: 6808 Skyway Rd, Paradise “Fantastic ambience and very friendly service. The food was fresh and delightful. Will surely recommend this restaurant to anyone. Reasonable prices and big meals. Good job.” –Edgar Z.

Inday's Filipino Food Truck Regularly at: Secret Trail Brewery, 132 Meyers St, Ste 120, Chico

Joe's Lunch Togo Regularly at: Corner of Lincoln and Bird St, Oroville “I am not even kidding!! One of the best cheeseburgers I have ever had. Cooked perfectly, juicy and delicious. If you see the truck, STOP AND EAT!! You will not regret it!” –Matt H.

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“I must say that this deserves more than 5 stars. It is amazing food quality and very authentic. If you're ever out looking for what to eat with family or alone this is the spot. Yummiest food out there.” –Veronica F.

Taco Trucks TACOS EL CENTENARIO Regularly at: 1114 W FIRST ST, CHICO

THE PATTY WAGON Regularly at: 7126 SKYWAY RD, PARADISE

“Some of the best burritos in town. It's a no-brainer, don't go anywhere else for a burrito. Always fast, always polite and friendly.” –Andrew B.

“The very best hamburgers & fries in Butte co. along with everything else. The folks are really nice people.” –Linda D.

TACOS SUPER TONAYA Regularly at: 1456 MANGROVE AVE, CHICO

E&J’S MOBILE KITCHEN Regularly at: 5917-5905 CLARK RD, PARADISE

“These burritos are hefty, and hit the spot. It's busy whenever I go, but that's how you know it's good.

Worth the trip, worth the wait, worth the price. I love this taco truck.” –Florence B.

“Excellent food. Best food truck in town by a longshot. Clean working space. Lots of choices.

Even Alligator Bites! All original recipes. Wow!” –John B.

TACOS EL GRULLENSE Regularly at: 396 E PARK AVE, CHICO

Something Different

“The BEST tacos in town. There’s just no debate. $1 tacos + the juiciest asada you’ve ever had. Can’t go wrong here, I swear.” –Cameron M.

FIESTA TACO Regularly at: 933 NORD AVE, CHICO “Possibly the best taco truck in the whole of the US. Exceptional service, efficiency and outstanding food for pennies on what you would pay anywhere else.” –Andrew L.

Burgers, Sandwiches & More THE BLACK KETTLE Regularly at: SECRET TRAIL BREWERY, 132 MEYERS ST, STE 120, CHICO “The Black Kettle has the best food I have ever ever had. Pure ecstasy is the only way to truly describe the food. You are a fool if you have not eaten anything from The Black Kettle yet.” –Danielle G.

RIGHTEOUS BURGER Regularly at: TOWN & COUNTRY PARKING LOT, 2586 OLIVE HWY, OROVILLE “Amazing burgers with so many options, love their fried cheese and their fries! Great price for the combos and absolutely awesome service! Favorite burger place in Oroville!” –Savannah E.

CRISPY EGGROLL Regularly at: 2501 S WHITMAN PL, CHICO “Eggrolls mandatory, everything else on the menu super good, but I recommend the curry noodles.

Owners are super nice, too. This place is a must-go every time I'm in that part of town.” –Dustin G.

CHICOBI’S Regularly at: SECRET TRAIL BREWERY, 132 MEYERS ST, STE 120, CHICO “Chicobi's fare is fresh, fun and fantastic! Obi works with you to create the perfect menu for your event. You definitely can't go wrong with Chicobi's!” –Katarina D.

BOOTLEG BBQ Regularly at: 1184 EAST AVE, CHICO “Great is an understatement. Ribs were meaty and the original sauce was tasty. Highly recommend the Bootleg BBQ if you want a takeout delight.” –Ronald A.

CAMPFIRE BBQ Regularly at: 8095 SKYWAT RD, PARADISE “I've tried all the other BBQ, but this one is freaking amazing! The menu is simple yet delicious! The entire menu here is made from scratch, and you can really taste the love that goes into it!” –Bernadette R.

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loved by locals

MONCA

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Restoring the

STATE THEATRE

For over 90 years, the now-historic Oroville State Theatre has been a centerpiece of the downtown landscape.

Built in 1927 by renowned California architect Timothy Pflueger, with its first performance on April 7, 1928, the State Theatre started its life as a vaudeville theater. In the style of the time, it was ornately decorated and equipped with a Wurlitzer organ.

Over the decades, though, as it moved from silent movies to contemporary blockbusters, from one owner to another, those original flourishes disappeared—painted over, removed, shrunk, or otherwise forgotten.

The State Theatre Arts Guild (STAGE), the all-volunteer group that operates and manages the theater, is working to change that by returning the building to its original appearance and ambience. As is the case with all things worth having, it’s a slow and steady process.

In the spring of 2019, visitors to the State Theatre would have encountered a space that felt somewhat rundown with strips of paint missing on one wall here, a bit of the ceiling there, with a general air of incompleteness. But rather than from disrepair, those strips of missing paint were intentional, revealing nearly 10 layers of paints from over the decades, including the original colors and decorative finishes from the 1920s and 1930s. Along with historical photos of the building from its glory days, STAGE is using those stripped samples to repaint and renovate the State Theater and bring it back to its “period of greatest influence,” generally considered between 1934 and 1948, with that signature art deco influence.

Some of those photos are displayed in the State Theatre’s lobby. Black and white framed photographs from various points of the theater’s life show the changes over the decades. You can see why STAGE is working so hard to bring the past into the present: in 1941, the theatre had an ornate, brightly lit marquee and conspicuous “State” sign that put the “modern” design to shame.

And by the time STAGE reopened the doors to the State Theatre in fall 2019, after its summer break, visitors were now wowed by renovations that brought the theatre’s past to its present: an updated art deco water fountain and ceiling detailing, a large renovated mural on the staircase

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2019's restoration of the mural brought one more original detail back to life.

landing, and, most notably, a new digital marquee, which pays tribute to the 1941 design and (quite literally) makes the State Theater once again shine downtown.

FROM BOLD TO BLAND Built for and operated by T&D Jr. Enterprises, which also owned the Senator Theatre (in Chico), the State Theatre’s original design reflected a time when going to a movie was still considered a capital-E Experience.

But when United Artists bought the theater in the late 1970s, they “modernized” it, painting over or changing most of the remaining original flourishes, and “twinning” the theater with a dividing wall so they could show two movies at a time and decreasing the capacity from nearly 1,600 to only 600. By the time United Artists sold the State Theatre to the City of Oroville in 1983, much of the spirit that was built into the Theatre in 1927 was lost. official adventure guide

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BRINGING THE PAST TO THE PRESENT Today, STAGE manages the theatre’s day-to-day operations and continues to promote the dream of its complete restoration: a modern theatre with the style and elegance of its original designs.

In that same spirit, the State Theatre opens its doors for a variety of contemporary and vintage-inspired events, including the Wild & Scenic Film Festival, classical music concerts, tribute bands, youth productions, and other community presentations.

Particularly popular is the playing of the Mighty Wurlitzer, which you can enjoy during select performances and special occasions. Whenever it’s played, the sounds of the organ fill the auditorium and drift into the lobby, transporting you back to State Theatre's heyday.

And if you close your eyes and listen, you can almost see what the theater was like 90 years ago—and where its supporters hope it will be in the future.

FOR YOUR VISIT Open October 1 through July 5, tours are available only during special events and for groups by reservation. Visit to discover the various restoration endeavors or hear the notes of the Wurlitzer in person.

Check the theater’s website for a calendar of events, including a variety of live performances, at OrovilleStateTheatre.com.

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Restoring

THE WURLITZER STAGE continues renovation on a Wurlitzer organ that was returned to the theater in 2018, thanks to the support of benefactors and ongoing individual citizens’ donations.

The State Theatre originally had an organ, but it was removed when the silent film era ended; today, with the installation of the Wurlitzer, the theater is one of only 200 theaters in the country to have a functioning organ. With about 1,200 pipes connected to dozens of instruments, the Wurlitzer is one of the most expensive and time-consuming parts of the overall restoration—but it’s well worth the effort.

Help restore the Mighty Wurlitzer Pipe Organ by adopting a pipe at OrovilleStateTheatre.com/ Product/Adopt-A-Pipe.

WATCH THE WURLITZER BEING PLAYED BY SCANNING THE CODE BELOW!

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ON DISPLAY At Chico State

As the creative training ground for young artists and performers in Butte County, it should be no surprise that Chico State University is home to a variety of galleries and performance spaces—but it may be a surprise to learn that you don’t have to be a student to visit them.

Perhaps the most well-known of Chico State’s museums is the Gateway Science Museum, actually located about a half-mile off campus. Dedicated to inspiring the exploration of science in youths, this is a particularly good spot to visit if you have kids in tow, but kids at heart will have fun, too!

Back on campus, just steps from the bustle of Downtown Chico, Laxson Auditorium is a central part of both the university and the larger Chico community. With 1,200 seats, it is the largest theater in Butte County, so it hosts touring groups, special guests, concerts, and more, including student-produced performances, throughout the year, making it a popular datenight destination on any given weekend.

Walking farther into campus, you’ll discover spaces that promote work ranging from professional exhibits to fully student-created and curated. At Valene L. Smith Museum of Anthropology in the Meriam Library complex, you’ll be able to explore the fully student-led museum, where museum studies students research, design, and install three new exhibitions each year.

At the nearby Arts and Humanities building, three museums and galleries share the first floor, showcasing a variety of artwork just steps from each other. The Janet Turner Print Museum houses a permanent collection of more than 3,500 fine art prints from 40 countries spanning six centuries, with several public exhibitions throughout the year. Students pursuing their Masters of Fine Arts (MFA) showcase their work at the Masters of Fine Arts Gallery with rotating exhibitions, while the Jacki Headley University Art Gallery hosts exhibits from regional, national, and international artists as well as the MFA culminating exhibitions and Annual Juried Student exhibition.

For undergraduate art students, the B-So Space is a student centered space primarily used for Bachelor of Fine Arts students

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GATEWAY SCIENCE

to showcase their culminating solo exhibitions as well as feature work from various art classes and student clubs.

So during your next visit to Butte County, make sure to catch a show and explore a gallery at Chico State—no student ID needed.

Most of the museums and galleries are normally open to the public only when school is in session, but due to COVID-19, all were closed or offered online exhibitions only in 2020. Please check the Chico State website for current openings and hours.

@KELLY_T_27

LAXSON AUDITORIUM

Butte College Art Gallery features regular exhibitions of contemporary art.

Beauty at

BUTTE COLLEGE Located in the ARTS building on the main campus, the Butte College Art Gallery features regular exhibitions of contemporary art and also hosts an Annual Juried Student Exhibition and Awards Ceremony that honors some of the college’s most talented art students. Make sure to check their Facebook page for up-to-date hours before your visit.

BUTTE COLLEGE ARTS GALLERY

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ARTS & CULTURE ABOUND In the vibrant arts and culture community in Butte County, street murals greet visitors, history abounds, and performances run year-round. Discover world-renowned hand-blown glass, sample the photography, lithography and handmade crafts at galleries throughout the county, learn about the area’s history, and more.

ART MUSEUMS & GALLERIES 1078 GALLERY 1710 Park Ave, Chico

B-SO SPACE

1749 Spencer Ave, Oroville

C.F. LOTT HOME 1067 Montgomery St, Oroville

Ayers Hall – Room 105, Chico State 400 W 1st St, Chico

CHICO AIR MUSEUM

CHICO ART CENTER

CHICO HISTORY MUSEUM

450 Orange St #6, Chico

141 Salem St, Chico

G-TOWN HOT SHOP & GLASS ART GALLERY

CHINESE TEMPLE

2280 Ivy St Suite 120, Chico

JACKI HEADLEY UNIVERSITY ART GALLERY Arts & Humanities Building – Room 121, Chico State 400 W 1st St, Chico

JANET TURNER PRINT MUSEUM Arts & Humanities Building – Room 123, Chico State 400 W 1st St, Chico

MASTERS OF FINE ARTS GALLERY Arts & Humanities Building – Room 122, Chico State 400 W 1st St, Chico

MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS GALLERY

165 Ryan Ave, Chico

1500 Broderick St, Oroville

COLMAN MUSEUM & CENTERVILLE SCHOOLHOUSE 13548 Centerville Rd, Chico

EHMANN HOME 1480 Lincoln St, Oroville

GOLD NUGGET MUSEUM & DEPOT MUSEUM 502 Pearson Rd, Paradise

GRIDLEY MUSEUM 601 Kentucky St, Gridley

PATRICK RANCH MUSEUM

900 Esplanade, Chico

10381 Midway, Chico

ORIENT & FLUME ART GLASS

PIONEER HISTORY MUSEUM

2161 Park Ave, Chico

2332 Montgomery St, Oroville

SATAVA ART GLASS STUDIO

STANSBURY HOME

819 Wall St, Chico

307 W 5th St #5505, Chico

SUTHERLAND GLASS ART

VALENE L. SMITH MUSEUM OF ANTHROPOLOGY

100 Kentucky St, Gridley

HISTORY MUSEUMS & BUILDINGS BIDWELL MANSION STATE HISTORIC PARK

400 W 1st St, Chico

PERFORMANCE SPACES BIRDCAGE THEATRE

525 Esplanade, Chico

1740 Bird St, Oroville

BOLT'S ANITQUE TOOL MUSEUM

CHICO THEATER COMPANY

1650 Broderick St, Oroville

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BUTTE COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM

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166 E Eaton Rd #F, Chico

GOLD NUGGET MUSEUM

HEADLEY GALLERY

JASON HALLEY

@AARONELDINBAUER

EL REY THEATER

THEATRE ON THE RIDGE

VALENE L. SMITH MUSEUM

of

ANTHROPOLOGY

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EL REY THEATER 230 W 2nd St, Chico

LAXSON AUDITORIUM 400 W 1st St, Chico

PARADISE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 777 Nunneley Rd, Paradise

517 Main St, Chico

STATE THEATRE 1489 Myers St, Oroville

THEATRE ON THE RIDGE

CHINESE TEMPLE

@BLUESLKPHOTO

SENATOR THEATRE

3735 Neal Rd, Paradise

FAMILY/KID FRIENDLY SPACES BARRY KIRSHNER WILDLIFE SANCTUARY 4995 Durham-Pentz Rd., Oroville

CHICO CHILDREN’S MUSEUM 325 Main St, Chico

CHICO CREEK NATURE CENTER 1968 E. 8th St, Chico

Montgomery St & Old Ferry Rd, Oroville

G-TOWN HOT SHOP

@JAKEGUILD

FEATHER RIVER NATURE CENTER & NATIVE PLANT PARK GATEWAY SCIENCE MUSEUM 625 Esplanade, Chico

LAKE OROVILLE VISITORS CENTER 917 Kelly Ridge Rd, Oroville

NATIONAL YO-YO MUSEUM 320 Broadway St, Chico

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1078 GALLERY

@CHICO_PRINT_PARTY

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Visit Oroville The Fun Starts Here

Oroville is a small city where recreation abounds. With five lakes and a river running through the middle of it, our beautiful city has a variety of recreational opportunities for all ability levels.

When you’re ready to wind down from adventure, visit our historic downtown district where you can shop for unique gifts and enjoy local cuisine all within walking distance of the river.

Table Mountain

Feather River

Lake Oroville You can check all of these adventures off your bucket list when you visit Oroville: • Hiking & Biking • Boating & Fishing • Camping • Museums • Historic Downtown

To learn more about Oroville, go to VisitOroville.com or call the Orovilleofficial Chamber at (530) 538-2542. adventure guide 75

ARTS & CULTURE

12.

11.

1.

4.

5.

3.

6.

10.

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MURAL MANIA 7.

9.

While not primarily known as an art destination, you’ll find a variety of murals, sculptures, and other public art throughout Butte County. From the vibrant and modern murals in Chico to those reflecting the agricultural and Gold Rush history in Oroville to smaller artistic surprises across the county, enjoying a self-guided public art tour is a great way to explore the area. As you adventure out, see if you can find the murals and sculptures listed below as well as the dozens of others not listed!

CHICO 1. Love by Jed Speer 2. Peace and Harmony by Shepard Fairey 3. Together by Jed Speer 4. Today Decides Tomorrow by Autumn Robertson and Rafa Orti

5. 1078 Gallery Mural by Siana Sonoquie 6. Our Hands by Donna Billick

OROVILLE 2.

7. Mine Shaft Mural by Ted Hanson and Frank Wilson

8. Union Mural by Forest Wong 9. Black Bart Attack on the Oroville, 1882

PARADISE 10. Here We Grow by Jed Speer 11. Key Phoenix by Jesse Mercer

DURHAM 12. Durham Mural by Christine MacShane

8.

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PLANNING ARTS & CULTURE YOUR STAY

FOUR-LEGGED FUN

@MITZI_AND_MOCHI

@MAVDOG_GSD

@SWEET_BREEZE4

@JJWALDEAR

@KIMZEY.WOOFA

@RITUS_B.B

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www@HOOSIER_AND_KODA .explorebuttecounty.comTRES HOMBRES

@DANEHYGOLDENS

@BAILEY_COUEY

Explore art and culture during Butte County Museum Weekend. Participating museums, galleries and theaters throughout the county welcome the public for free access and other ticketed special offerings!

For more info: ExploreButteCounty.com/MuseumWeekend

EXPLORE LIKE A LOCAL

@ALANNAPERE1

@MADDIEEGOSS

@REDFLAG879

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CAMPUS EXPLORATIONS Collegiate Adventures Await

With a major California State University and an athletic powerhouse community college, Butte County offers a robust collegiate experience for students, alumni, fans, and visitors alike.

At Chico State, you’ll find one of California’s most iconic universities, serving up a unique yet quintessential college experience. With their close proximity to each other, the university and Downtown Chico community are closely intertwined, with students an everyday part of life, both on and off campus.

@BRIDGITMCKAY

Of course, when school is in session, students can be found in every corner of the 119-acre campus—and if you’re visiting, you should explore it, too! With majestic shade trees, a rose garden, and iconic brick Romanesque architecture, a stroll through the campus of the second-oldest school in the California State University system is well worth a trip of its own.

@JJCURCIO3

Off campus, you’ll find yourself around students constantly. During local annual events, like Thursday Night Market and Taste of Chico, they add an extra energy that only comes from the freedom of youth. Even venturing beyond campus, you’ll mingle with students throughout the ever popular Bidwell Park and iconic photo ops like Monkey Face, Bear Hole, and Yahi Trail. On the weekends, the streets of Downtown Chico come to life as students hit the town at some of their favorite bars, such as Madison Bear Garden or Riley’s, with Sunday morning classic brunch spots, like Mom’s and Sin of Cortez, full of those recovering from the night before.

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EXPLORE LIKE A LOCAL

During local annual events, like Thursday Night Market and Taste of Chico, they add an extra energy that only comes from the freedom of youth.

Beyond campus and the city center, you’ll discover some hidden gems in outdoor classrooms that are also great spots for visitors to explore, such as the Big Chico Creek Ecological Reserve and Paul L. Bryne Agricultural Teaching and Research Center, more commonly known as The University Farm.

Venture south to Oroville for an entirely different collegiate experience with a visit to Butte College. Located on the outskirts of Oroville, the mostly commuter community college provides a much more rural and agricultural vibe for its students who are training to be the next generation of nurses, law enforcement, EMTs, firefighters, welders, and more. Students in the Agriculture, Natural Resource/ Environmental Studies, Biology, and other

www . explorebuttecounty . com

With so much college life in Butte County, both campuses offer the opportunity for a perfect trip for creating new memories while reminiscing about your own days on campus.

@MJORGE_80

@PARKER.LEIGH

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programs also enjoy hands-on learning experiences at the 928-acre Butte College Wildlife Refuge that the college is located on, which acts as an outdoor laboratory and is also a beautiful spot for visitors to enjoy hiking and wildlife viewing. And on weekends during the fall, you can enjoy a classic Saturday night football game on campus with the Butte College Football program. With two National Championships under its belt and famous alumni that includes Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers, every game is full of excitement.

MORE TO EXPLORE Continue your college connection with these favorites

@JUST_INTHEZONE

Chico Paper Company A powerful combination of framing shop and art gallery for nearly 50 years, you’ll want to explore and select a piece from a local artist to take home with you.

Crazy Horse Saloon Get crazy with a ride on the mechanical bull—just to remind yourself that you’re not as young as you once were.

Made in Chico

@KYRASGREENWOOD

Selling only Chico-made art, photography, and other goods, the store is your opportunity to take home a piece of Chico with you.

Naked Lounge Start off your day with a handcrafted espresso drink in this popular coffee shop and music venue located right in the middle of Downtown Chico. @PILE_OF_GARBITCH

Woodstock’s Pizza With great pizza, trivia nights, and the latest game on the big screen, all at an updated location, it's a great place to spend an afternoon.

EXPLORE LIKE A LOCAL

A Few of Our

FAVORITE THINGS With innovators, designers, creators, and makers across Butte County, you’ll find a wide variety of locally made goods perfect for birthdays, holidays, souvenirs, and more. Any gift from our 2020 Twelve Favorite Things holiday guide is guaranteed to be a hit!

Mary Lake-Thompson

Amy Waltz Designs

Holiday Flour Sack Towel Set We love Mary LakeThompson’s holiday towel sets, which add the perfect touch of whimsy to any kitchen and are almost too cute to use.

Small Silver Organic Rectangle Earrings Bold and statement-making yet delicate enough for anytime wear, don’t be surprised if you catch us wearing these earrings to all our (virtual) parties.

2121 Montgomery St, Oroville

290 Airpark Blvd, Chico

Tender Loving Coffee 365 E 6th St, Chico

La Patrona Blend Coffee Beans and Mug When we can’t make it to the cafe, we love brewing a cup of La Patrona Blend at home, made and savored with a little extra TLC.

Wild Ink Press 183 E 6th St, Chico

Merry Wreaths Boxed Note Cards We know that friends and family will love the Christmas wreaths cards from Wild Ink Press.

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Poppy Rose Candle Co. Online only on Etsy

Trio of Mini Holiday Candles The holiday candles from Poppy Rose Candle Co. are our must-haves for cozy winter nights at home and making a good gift an even better one.

Milk & Honey 1860

3317 Dry Creek Rd, Butte Valley Gift Crate We love the soaps, lotions, and wool from Milk & Honey 1860.

Instead of trying to pick a favorite, we’re fans of their gift crates, which feature a few of their best products.

Almendra Winery & Distillery 9275 Midway, Durham

Luna Red Wine Almendra’s Luna red wine is the perfect blend for tasting at home while preparing a holiday meal or as a gift to a favorite friend.

Sierra Oro Farm Trail Seasonal; Online Only

Brushstrokes Studio & Art Gallery

Holiday Farm Fresh Foodie Box Featuring many of our Butte County favorites, including Sohnrey Family Foods, Lundberg Farms, Llano Seco, Maisie Jane’s, and the Lavender Ranch, the Sierra Oro Farm Trail holiday foodie box is so good, we’re buying at least three for gifts this year!

1967 Montgomery St, Oroville Oroville Prints

by Ben North The emotion Ben North captures in every photo makes you just feel something, and his landscapes look great in any living room.

Treasures from Paradise 969 Bille Rd, Paradise

10” Carved Bears by Dan Forschler We just had to share these wooden bears, carved from trees felled by the 2018 Camp Fire. With a bear at home, no matter where you live, you’ll have a little piece of Paradise.

Upper Park Clothing 122 W 3rd St, Chico

Black Box Logo Beanie The classic Upper Park beanie is perfect for those cold weather explorations, and our friends love taking them home as mementos of the great times had in Bidwell Park.

Orient & Flume

2161 Park Ave, Chico Art Glass We think the holiday season should be the “Treat Yo’ Self” season, and the beautiful hand-blown glass from Orient & Flume is the perfect elegant gift for yourself (or a loved one).

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LOCALLY GROWN

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JASON WEINRICH loved by locals

ALMOND BLOSSOMS official adventure guide 87

LOCALLY GROWN

AGRICULTURAL PAST MEETS PRESENT

With agricultural roots reaching back to the earliest innovations in California farming, Butte County today is still home to farms, large and small, carrying on the legacy of quality and innovation that has existed in Butte County for more than 100 years, producing some of the state’s best olive oils, fruit, rice, and nuts.

@KAMRON__BLT

For the past 150 years, Butte County has been an agricultural leader in California, with innovative ideas and farmers with a deep respect for the land.

Chico’s founder, John Bidwell, is known as “a founding father of modern California agriculture.” He championed diversified commercial agriculture, pioneered the growth of the almond and walnut industry, and grew his ranch into a model of California’s farm industry in the second half of the 19th century.

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ANDREW SOHNREY

Long after John Bidwell, almonds and other tree nuts continue to flourish in Butte County. For five generations, Sohnrey Family Foods in Oroville has been growing

Butte County today is still home to farms, large and small, carrying on the legacy of quality and innovation that has existed in Butte County for more than 100 years.

almonds, walnuts, rice, and prunes and selling high-quality consumer products while focusing on stewardship of the lands they tend. They generate renewable energy for their farm and food manufacturing facility through two solar panel systems and use drones and orchard moisture sensors to reduce their water usage, among other conservation efforts.

You can also buy almonds and other nut products from Maisie Jane’s California Sunshine Products. A third-generation almond-farmer’s daughter, Maisie Jane began roasting nuts in the family kitchen at 17, and the company grew from a college project into a sustainable business. For a seasonal treat, head to Harrison’s California Chestnuts to buy chestnuts directly from the growers during the fall harvest.

Olive oil production in Oroville is thanks to another 19th century agriculture pioneer: Freda Ehmann, an Oroville farmer who launched California’s olive industry by perfecting a process to preserve the fruit for shipment in 1898. Today, multiple local olive oil producers build on Ehmann’s legacy. Lodestar Farms offers award-winning olive oils from their Mission olive groves with a distinct regional flavor. Fertile volcanic soil combined with a Mediterranean climate makes Oroville an ideal location for the Mission olives, with 75% of their production in the country located in the Oroville area, including from other local favorites Butte View Olive Oil and TLC Olive Oil. In Oroville, you’ll also find the Mother Orange Tree, the oldest living orange tree in Northern California, planted in 1856. The success of its planting set off a rush to plant more orange trees in the second half of the 19th century. Today, the local industry that

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LOCALLY GROWN

EXPERIENCE THE FARM Such great locally grown goods are made to be celebrated

Every Columbus Day weekend, dozens of wineries and specialty farms throughout the county roll out the red carpet for a food and wine extravaganza.

Participants can enjoy award-winning food and wine and meet the farmers at their own pace.

@WOOKEYRANCH

Sierra Oro Farm Trail Passport Weekend

Farm City Celebration The Farm City Celebration brings together the urban community and the agricultural community to forge a bond through educational ag events, including the annual Harvest Festival and Agri-Business Bus Tour and Lunch.

North Sierra Foothill Wine Trail

@MRS.VICKNER

On the third weekend in April, taste the best wines from 12 artisan producers across the northern extreme of the Sierra Foothills Appellation. Crossing a variety of microclimates and terroirs, you’re able to enjoy a variety of selections and styles.

BUTTE COUNTY HAS BEEN AN AGRICULTURAL LEADER IN CALIFORNIA, WITH INNOVATIVE IDEAS & FARMERS WITH A DEEP RESPECT FOR THE LAND remains is small but persistent, with local Satsuma mandarin growers, such as Mt. Ida Mandarin Ranch, Tri-L Mandarin Ranch, and Doering’s Mandarins selling seasonally from their farms and farmers markets.

@WOOKEYRANCH

With warm weather and water-retaining adobe soil, Butte County is also a fertile area for growing rice, with Richvale particularly suited for growing the crop. Of the more than 400 rice growers in the county, the Richvale-based Lundberg Family Farms is the most well-known. Founded in 1937 with sustainability and stewardship at its core, the rice growing family continues to build on this legacy, receiving the 2020 Rodale Institute’s Organic Pioneer Award for their innovative work in organic farming, use of renewable energy, and TRUE Zero Waste certification. (Read more on pg. 94-96) South of Chico, on the east bank of the Sacramento River, Rancho Llano Seco is a sixth-generation family run farm that is situated on one of the last intact Mexican land grant properties from 1845. It responsibly and humanely raises pork and beef—using best practices as certified by Global Animal Partnership—as well as grows heirloom beans and ancient grains.

For the past 150 years, Butte County has been an agricultural leader in California, with innovative ideas and farmers with a deep respect for the land. We can’t wait to see what the next century brings.

@ANHTAYLOR

@HAYLEY.FELDMAN

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LOCALLY GROWN @MILKHONEY1860 loved by locals

SOHNREY FAMILY FOODS Sohnrey's gift store is a one-stop shop for a variety of specialty items.

@SOHNREYFAMILYFOODS

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TAKE HOME THE BOUNTY From dedicated shops to farmers markets to everything in between, you can find the best of Butte County’s local goods throughout the region.

FARMERS MARKETS COUNTYWIDE

With farmers markets in Chico, Oroville, Gridley, and Paradise, there’s no shortage of places to get the freshest Butte County produce. One of the most popular markets is the Chico Certified Farmers Market, which you’ll find Downtown on E 2nd Street every Saturday, rain or shine.

MAISIE JANE’S GIFTS 1324 DAYTON RD, CHICO

Nut butters, roasted nuts, chocolate-covered nuts, dried fruit, honey, even organic products— nut fans can find it all and more at Maisie Jane’s gift shop in Chico.

MILK & HONEY 1860 3317 DRY CREEK RD, BUTTE VALLEY

Enjoy handcrafted goat’s milk lotions and balms as well as fleece and woolen products from their Civil War-era farm.

SOHNREY FAMILY FOODS 41 SKILLIN LN, OROVILLE

Create the perfect gift basket with one visit to Sohnrey’s gift shop. In addition to a variety of almonds and specialty flavor almond butters, you’ll find local rice, honey, preserves, and house and kitchen wares.

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LOCALLY GROWN

GROWING INNOVATION The story of innovation at Lundberg Family Farms dates back to the 1930s. Albert and Frances Lundberg lived in Nebraska during the Dust Bowl, learning a merciless lesson about the combined effects of overplowing and drought. In 1937, when they took their family west to the small Butte County town of Richvale, the Lundbergs decided to do things differently by working in partnership with nature and prioritizing soil health in every step of the process. Over the course of their children’s and grandchildren’s lives, Lundberg Family Farms has become known for pioneering organic rice farming practices that tend to soil, air, water, and wildlife as carefully as their crops.

A HISTORY OF INNOVATION Albert Lundberg taught his four sons—Eldon, Wendell, Harlan, and Homer—to leave the land better than they

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loved by locals

LUNDBERG FARMS One of today’s best-known organic rice farms.

@LUNDBERGFARMS

found it. They allowed fields to fallow, rotated crops, and incorporated rice straw.

One of today’s best-known organic rice farming techniques was even born of a failed Lundberg field. The Lundbergs became early adopters of organic farming in the late 1960s, before the practice even had a name, and weed control was a perpetual challenge. One field of organic rice was so overgrown with weeds that it seemed unsalvageable, so they dried it up. That’s when they discovered that the weeds died faster than the rice, leaving them free to turn the water back on and continue growing the crop.

THE DRIVE TO IMPROVE That single event changed the trajectory of organic rice farming in California, and Lundberg continues to use deep water and dry-up techniques to kill weeds organically—no herbicides needed.

Soil health and organic farming are part of Lundberg’s larger commitment to establishing benchmarks in environmental health. The company offsets its operations with 100% renewable energy, including 1.9 MW of solar energy generated on-site, and it’s worked with the National Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) to better understand the impact farmers have on the environment.

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LOCALLY GROWN

"Reworking some of these spaces not only helps us protect our communities, but also gives us that amazing access to resources that are there but tough to get to."

-Anders Lundberg, Grower Services Manager

To that end, the Lundbergs flood a portion of their fields each winter to replicate California’s once-abundant wetlands. This not only helps restore nutrients to the soil by decomposing leftover rice straw, but also provides habitat for thousands of ducks, geese, shorebirds, sandhill cranes, and other wintering waterfowl. Once the birds move on, the water is returned to rivers and streams, where zooplankton from the fields support the salmon population. And before they start their tractors in the spring, the Lundbergs work with California Waterfowl to recover eggs from every field where ducks have nested. Over the years, more than 30,000 ducklings have been rescued from Lundberg’s fields!

Still, the Lundbergs aren’t known to settle. While returning rice straw to the soil provides clear benefits to the birds, fish, and fields, the Lundbergs monitor any associated methane released so they can continue to leave the land better than they found it.

This ongoing commitment to sustainability earned Lundberg one of Rodale Institute’s Organic Pioneer Awards for 2020, a prestigious achievement for a family-owned business with roots that go back nearly a century.

A BUTTE COUNTY TREASURE Lundberg’s relationship to Butte County is an integral part of the company’s identity.

In addition to its own unique varieties of rice, Lundberg grows public varieties from the Rice Experiment Station in Biggs, and the local community has always been proud of Lundberg’s legacy of stewardship. While 2020 saw the farm temporarily close its onsite store and tours for safety reasons, Lundberg has ramped up its online presence by sharing videos, all manner of delicious recipes (including vegan and vegetarian dishes), and glimpses into farm life and production through social media—friendly reminders that soon, all will be welcome to once again experience Butte County’s vibrant rice farming culture firsthand.

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BUTTE COUNTY CROPS

Butte Meadows

North

Magalia 32

99

Chico

Paradise

32

99

Durham

70

162

Oroville

162

Biggs

99

Gridley

70

Sources: Esri, DigitalGlobe, GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics, CNES/Airbus DS, USDA, USGS, AeroGRID, IGN, and the GIS User Community

Legend Rice Walnut

0

1.5

3

6

Miles 9

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PLANNING YOUR STAY

STAY A WHILE

HOTEL KEY

LODGING

TYPE

AMERICAS BEST VALUE INN

MOTEL

Fitness Room

Swimming Pool

Meeting Facility

Breakfast

Pet Friendly

•

•

740 Broadway St, Chico 95928

530.343.3286

AMERICAS BEST VALUE INN OROVILLE

•

MOTEL

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580 Oro Dam Blvd E, Oroville 95965

530.533.7070

BAMBI INN

•

MOTEL

7436 Humboldt Rd, Butte Meadows 95942

530.873.4125

BEST WESTERN HERITAGE INN CHICO

HOTEL

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•

HOTEL

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•

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•

25 Heritage Ln, Chico 95926

530.894.8600

BEST WESTERN PARADISE 5475 Clark Road, Paradise 95969

530.876.0191

BUDGET INN

MOTEL

1475 Feather River Blvd, Oroville 95965

530.533.2121

COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT

HOTEL

•

2481 Carmichael Dr, Chico 95928

530.894.6699

DAHL'S MOTEL

•

MOTEL

•

2010 Feather River Blvd, Oroville 95965

530.534.7392

DAYS INN OROVILLE

MOTEL

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•

HOTEL

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•

1745 Feather River Blvd, Oroville 95965

530.533.3297

DOUBLE TREE BY HILTON 685 Manzanita Crt, Chico 95926

530.345.2491

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•

•

•

LODGING

TYPE

GOODMAN HOUSE HISTORIC INN

B&B

•

1362 Esplanade, Chico 95926

530.566.0256

GRIDLEY INN & RV PARK 1490 CA-99, Gridley 95948

MOTEL & RV PARK

•

•

530.846.4520

HAVEN INN OF CHICO

MOTEL

2212 Park Ave, Chico 95928

530.342.5704

HERITAGE INN EXPRESS

MOTEL

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•

HOTEL

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•

•

HOTEL

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•

•

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725 Broadway St, Chico 95928

530.343.4527

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS LAKE OROVILLE 550 Oro Dam Blvd E, Oroville 95965

530.534.5566

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS CHICO 2074 E 20th St, Chico 95928

530.891.0100

HOTEL DIAMOND

•

HOTEL

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220 W 4th St, Chico 95926

530.893.3100

HOTEL JAMES

HOTEL

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•

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10 Lost Dutchman Dr, Chico 95973

530.894.5743

MATADOR MOTEL

MOTEL

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MOTEL

•

MOTEL

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1934 Esplanade, Chico 95926

530.342.7543

MOTEL 6 CHICO 665 Manzanita Ct, Chico 95926

530.345.5500

MOTEL 6 OROVILLE 505 Montgomery St, Oroville 95965

530.532.9400

OXFORD SUITES

HOTEL

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•

•

•

•

2035 Business Ln, Chico 95928

530.899.9090

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PLANNING YOUR STAY

STAY A WHILE

HOTEL KEY

LODGING

TYPE

PACIFIC MOTEL

MOTEL

Fitness Room

Swimming Pool

Meeting Facility

Breakfast

Pet Friendly

•

1308 CA-99, Gridley 95948

530.797.9298

PONDEROSA GARDENS

MOTEL

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MOTEL

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•

•

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7010 Skyway Rd, Paradise 95969

530.872.9094

QUALITY INN NEAR CHICO STATE 715 Main St, Chico 95928

530.343.7911

REGENCY INN

MOTEL

2566 Esplanade, Chico 95973

530.898.0134

RESIDENCE INN BY MARRIOTT

HOTEL

•

•

•

2485 Carmichael Dr, Chico 95928

530.894.5500

RODEWAY INN

•

MOTEL

1717 Park Ave, Chico 95928

530.342.9472

SAFARI INN MOTEL

MOTEL

•

•

2352 Esplanade, Chico 95926

530.343.3201

SUNSET INN

•

MOTEL

1835 Feather River Blvd, Oroville 95965

530.533.8201

SUPER 8 CHICO

MOTEL

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•

MOTEL

•

•

•

1470 Manzanita Ct, Chico 95926

530.345.2533

SUPER 8 OROVILLE 1470 Feather River Blvd, Oroville 95965

530.533.9673

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•

LODGING

TYPE

THE OUTPOST

MOTEL

7589 Humboldt Rd, Butte Meadows 95942

530.873.3050

TOWN HOUSE MOTEL

MOTEL

•

MOTEL

•

•

2231 Esplanade, Chico 95926

530.343.1621

UNIVERSITY INN

•

630 Main St, Chico 95928

530.895.1323

VILLA COURT INN MOTEL

•

MOTEL

1527 Feather River Blvd, Oroville 95965

530.533.3930

@TLG_ENT

@BAYLOR.IS.BORING

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GOLD NUGGET MUSEUM

@ISABELCOOKSTON

CHICO D.B.A.

@STEEZDIAZ

@ISABELCOOKSTON

@PH.OENIX_PHOTOGRAPHY

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EVENT INSPIRATION They'll be back, we promise!

With the coronavirus, sheltering in place, and continued social distancing measures in place, 2020 was a rough year for events. As you’re planning your 2021 Butte County visit, make sure to check out the events calendar on Explore Butte County’s website for the most up-to-date information. Until then, get inspired with past photos from some of

@ALWAGNER804

@INEBRIATIONTRAVELLOG

our favorite annual events.

TO GET THE LATEST ON EVENTS IN THE REGION, SCAN THE CODE BELOW!

@MAHINAMUSUBI

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PLANNING YOUR STAY

MEETING PLACES Find the perfect meeting and event space in Butte County

Under 50

51-150 People

151-250 People

251+ People

BOYS & GIRLS CLUB, CHICO

COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT, CHICO

601 WALL ST, CHICO 530.899.0335

2481 CARMICHAEL DR, CHICO 530.894.6699

Entire Chico Clubhouse | 3997 Sq Feet | 267 Standing Conference Room | 374 Sq Feet | 25 Standing Multipurpose Room | 761 Sq Feet | 92 Standing or 50 Seated Arts & Science | 761 Sq Feet | 92 Standing or 50 Seated

Meeting Room | 750 Sq Feet | 40 People

Entire Teen Center | 8253 Sq Feet | 551 Standing

Conference Room | 3120 Sq Feet | 380 People

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON 685 MANZANITA CT, CHICO 530.433.1636

Butte & Glenn Rooms | 1520 Sq Feet | 190 People

BUTTE COLLEGE 3536 BUTTE CAMPUS DR, OROVILLE 530.895.2511

Cafeteria | 441 Seated or 946 Standing

Lassen & Shasta Rooms | 500 Sq Feet | 35 People Board Room | 375 Sq Feet | 26 People

Arts Theatre | 256 People

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS & SUITES, CHICO

BUTTE COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS

Meeting Room | 350 Sq Feet | 25 People

Campus Center Lounge | 100 People

2074 E 20TH ST, CHICO 530.891.0100

199 E HAZEL ST, GRIDLEY 530.846.3626

Expo Hall Meeting Room | 10.6k Sq Feet | 1000 People Butte Hall Meeting Room | 4320 Sq Feet | 350 People

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS & SUITES, LAKE OROVILLE 550 ORO DAM BLVD E, OROVILLE 530.534.5566

Jake’s AKA Goldies Meeting Room | 500 People

First Floor Conference Room | 1400 Sq Feet | 80 People

Refuge Meeting Room | 50 People

Second Floor Meeting Room | 330 Sq Feet | 8 People

BUTTE COUNTY LIBRARIES

OXFORD SUITES, CHICO

VARIOUS LOCATIONS

2035 BUSINESS LN, CHICO 530.899.9090

Chico | 83 Seated or 197 Standing

Honey Run Hall | 1152 Sq Feet | 70 People

Durham | 20 People

Honey Run One or Two | 576 Sq Feet each | 30 People

Gridley | 49 People

Big Chico Creek | 576 Sq Feet | 30 People

Oroville | 44 People

Little Chico Creek Boardroom | 8 People

Paradise | 49 People

CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY, CHICO 400 W FIRST ST, CHICO

Various Rooms | Capacity Ranges 10 to 1,000+

CHICO MASONIC FAMILY CENTER 1110 W EAST AVE, CHICO 530.342.7143

PARADISE AIRPORT 4405 AIRPORT RD, PARADISE 530.521.2289

Meeting Room | 1120 Sq Feet | 74 People

RESIDENCE INN BY MARRIOTT, CHICO 2485 CARMICHAEL DR, CHICO 530.894.5500

Event Room | 448 Sq Feet | 20 people

Main Hall | 5448 Sq. Feet | 782 People Large Dining | 3850 Sq Feet | 554 People Small Dining | 1598 Sq Feet | 228 People York Rite Room | 1800 Sq Feet | 227 People

SILVER DOLLAR FAIRGROUNDS 2357 FAIR ST, CHICO 530.895.4666

Commercial Building | 14000 Sq Feet | 1000+ People Harvest Hall | 4000 Sq Feet | 250 People Education Building | 20000 Sq Feet | 1000+ People

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PARTY TIME With indoor and outdoor venues perfect for small gatherings to blowout bashes, there’s no shortage of places to host an intimate affair, tie the knot, or party the night away in Butte County.

Under 50

51-150 People

151-250 People

251+ People

Event Venues ALMENDRA WINERY & DISTILLERY

DIAMOND STEAKHOUSE

9275 MIDWAY, DURHAM 530.343.6893

220 W 4TH ST, CHICO 530.895.1515

Barrel Room | 7000 Sq Feet | 200 People

Cupola Room | 33 People

ARC PAVILION

Wine Cellar | 73 People

2040 PARK AVE, CHICO 530.891.5865

GALE VINEYARDS

Venue | 3600 Sq Feet | 240 Standing or 160 Seated

9345 STANFORD LN, DURHAM 530.891.1264

BUTTE CREEK COUNTRY CLUB

Grounds | 200 People

175 ESTATES DR, CHICO 530.343.7979

HONKER BAY RANCH

Oak Room Boardroom | 12 People

1446 FARRAR LN, OROVILLE 530.534.8380

Grand Ballrooms | 30000 Sq Feet | 300 People

Grounds | 300+ People

C.F. LOTT HOME

IRONGATE GARDEN INN

1067 MONTGOMERY ST, OROVILLE 530.538.2401

4673 NORD HWY, CHICO 530.487.4598

Coach Room | 50 People

Grounds | 200 People

Gazebo Grounds | 150+ People

LAKESIDE PAVILION

CANYON OAKS COUNTRY CLUB

2565 CALIFORNIA PARK DR, CHICO 530.895.4666

999 YOSEMITE DR, CHICO 530.343.2582

Events Space | 275 People

Venue | 2400 Sq Feet | 150 People

LONG CREEK WINERY & RANCH

CENTERVILLE ESTATES

323 WARD BLVD, OROVILLE 530.589.3415

13386 CENTERVILLE RD, CHICO 530.891.0641

Grounds | 100 People

Wedding Venue | 250+ People

MANZANITA PLACE

CHICO EVENT CENTER

1705 MANZANITA AVE, CHICO 530.343.1431

197 E 2ND ST, CHICO 530.898.8387

Banquet Hall | 650 Seated

Event Center | 4000 Sq Feet | 399 Standing or 200 Seated

Outdoor Pavilion | 300 Standing

CHICO WOMEN'S CLUB

NEIGHBORHOOD CHURCH

592 E 3RD ST, CHICO 530.894.1978

2801 NOTRE DAME BLVD, CHICO 530.343.6006

Interior Seating Space | 1050 Sq Feet | 200 People

The Island | 400 People

CREEKSIDE ROSE GARDEN & EVENT CENTER 545 VALLOMBROSA AVE, CHICO 530.895.4711

The Dome | 1200 People The Chapel | 70 People Fellowship Hall | 300 People

Rose Garden Main Hall | 2600 Sq Feet | 200 People

official adventure guide

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PLANNING YOUR STAY

PARADISE LUTHERAN CHURCH 780 LUTHER DR, PARADISE 530.877.3549

Luther Hall | 4160 Sq Feet | 160 People Chapel | 2376 Sq Feet | 122 People Loft | 45 People

10381 MIDWAY, CHICO 530.342.4359

Venue | 300+ People

RIFFLES RESORT 4488 PACIFIC HEIGHTS RD, OROVILLE 530.534.5550

Grounds | 300+ People

SIERRA NEVADA BREWERY

WHITE RANCH EVENTS

@NATALIETUCKERPHOTOGRAPHY

PATRICK RANCH MUSEUM

1075 E. 20TH ST, CHICO 530.983.3520

Big Room | 350 People

STANSBURY HOME 307 W. 5TH ST #5505, CHICO 530.342.3037

Inside | 50 People Outside | 200 People

2700 ORO DAM BLVD. W, OROVILLE 530.533.3922

Banquet Room | 91 People

THE PALMS 2947 NORD AVE, CHICO 530.399.0404

Grounds | 150 People

THE PALMS

@WANDERLUSTCREATIVECO

TABLE MOUNTAIN GOLF COURSE

TJ FARMS ESTATES 3600 CHICO AVE, CHICO 530.343.2294

Grounds | 300 People

VICTORIAN ROSE 429 B ST, BIGGS 916.412.5319

Garden with On-Site Reception | 125 People Garden with Off-Site Reception | 200 People Parlor Room | 35 People

WHITE RANCH 214 HAGENRIDGE RD, CHICO 530.342.6530

Wedding Venue | 200 People

WINDCHIME WEDDING CHAPEL 1120 SPRUCE AVE, CHICO 530.893.9384

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HONKER BAY RANCH

@MIKEBALLBASS

Ceremony Space | 15 People

Get your free

#HikeButteCA Pass Get the Pass Take the Hike Win the Swag For 2021, we knew you’d need more than another sourdough recipe and 80’s TV-show reboot, so we assembled the ultimate trail list including hundreds of miles of exploration. Introducing, the #HikeButteCA Pass, a convenient mobile experience that will inspire you to change your scenery, explore new vistas and breathe some fresh cool FREEDOM. Register at ExploreButteCounty.org/hike. Then bring your phone with you to check-in at each new destination, earning points toward swag, all while you explore!

Get the pass, discover new trails and earn some sweet gear:

ExploreButteCounty.org/hike official adventure guide

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PLANNING PLANNING YOUR YOUR STAY STAY

PLANES, TRAINS, & AUTOMOBILES

Whether you fly in from a nearby airport or take the scenic route, it’s easy to travel to and around Butte County so you can focus on the fun stuff!

GETTING TO BUTTE COUNTY

By Plane Enjoy your pick of four airports within a four-hour drive of Butte County. From the Bay Area, San Francisco International is just 3.5 hours away, and Oakland International is only three. A flight to Sacramento International puts you just 1.5 hours away, while the drive from Redding Airport is even shorter. SuperShuttle provides transportation between Chico and Sacramento International Airport.

Locally, Chico Municipal Airport, Oroville Municipal Airport, and Paradise Airport are available for private and charter flights.

By Train If taking the train is more your speed, there is an Amtrak train platform adjacent to the historic 1892 Southern Pacific depot, now the Chico Arts Center, in Chico.

By Bus Greyhound Bus has a stop in Chico at the Amtrak train platform as well as a stop in Oroville on Oro-Dam Boulevard. Glenn Ride has connections in Chico for bus routes into the Glenn County communities of Hamilton City, Orland, and Willows.

Traveling Around Butte County B-Line is the regional transit service in Butte County. Buses serve routes within Chico, Oroville, and the Ridge communities of Paradise and Magalia. Regional bus routes connect these communities and include additional stops in Gridley, Biggs, Palermo, and Durham. Visit their website to see maps and descriptions of each route. There is even a real-time bus tracking map as well as a trip planner. Each bus is equipped with a bike rack and a wheelchair lift.

For those looking to rent a car, Hertz, Budget, Avis, and Enterprise are regional options.

Ride-share companies Uber and Lyft operate in the Chico area. There are also several cab companies serving Butte County. Elite Limo in Chico can help you cruise around Butte County in style.

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loved by locals

GRAY LODGE WILDLIFE AREA Photo shot by Michele Dodge, winner of the 2021 #BirdButteCa Birding Photo Contest!

Michele Dodge

@MEG.GEM9999

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Tag Us While You’re In Butte County for Your Chance to Be Featured! #ExploreButteCA