01
Iconic summit climb
Lassen Peak Trail
Lassen Volcanic National Park • Alpine Volcano Summit Hike • Big-View Bucket-List Outing
A steady, switchbacking climb to the 10,457-foot summit of Lassen Peak with panoramic views that make the effort worth every step.
If you only tackle one big hike near Hypericum, make it Lassen Peak. The well-graded trail starts above treeline and quickly opens to long views over lakes, lava domes, and the southern Cascades. Go early on summer weekends to find parking at the trailhead and bring layers—the wind can be fierce even on warm days.
02
Best waterfall escape
Brandy Creek Falls Trail
Whiskeytown National Recreation Area • Shaded Waterfall Canyon Hike • Cool Summer Retreat
A short but engaging trail that winds up a forested creek to a multi-tiered waterfall tucked into a granite alcove.
Brandy Creek Falls is the kind of hike you stash away for hot afternoons when you want cool air and moving water. The route follows the creek through mixed forest, crossing footbridges and small cascades before the final staircase-style climb to the main falls. Plan extra time to explore the side paths and rock ledges around the upper tiers, where kids and photographers tend to linger.
03
After-work classic
Upper Bidwell Park North Rim & Yahi Loop
Chico – Upper Bidwell Park • Rim And Creek Canyon Loop • Local Everyday Favorite
A linked loop that pairs wide-open basalt rim views with a quieter creekside return through shady oak woodland.
Upper Bidwell feels like the local training ground for hikers and trail runners who live anywhere near Hypericum. Climb the North Rim for big sky, lava outcrops, and views down to Big Chico Creek, then drop back via the Yahi Trail to trade exposure for shade and birdsong. Start near sunrise or in the golden hour for cooler temps and the best light on the canyon walls.
04
Grand waterfall viewpoint
Feather Falls National Scenic Trail
Plumas National Forest Near Oroville • Forest Loop To Dramatic Overlook • Best All-Day Outing
A longer forest hike that finishes at a stout viewing platform above one of California's tallest waterfalls.
The Feather Falls trail makes a satisfying full-day adventure without technical terrain. The loop rolls through mixed conifer and oak forest, with occasional glimpses of distant ridges, before ending at a railed overlook perched beside the roaring plunge of the falls. Bring plenty of water, as the return climb out can feel longer than expected, especially on warm afternoons.
05
Most remote-feeling
Deer Creek Trail, Ishi Wilderness
Ishi Wilderness East Of Chico • Rimrock And Canyon Wilderness Hike • Quiet Backcountry Escape
A lightly traveled route that drops from rimrock country toward Deer Creek, with wide views and a strong sense of solitude.
For hikers who value quiet over crowds, the Ishi Wilderness feels like stepping into an older California. The Deer Creek area mixes open volcanic tablelands, scattered pines, and steep-walled drainages where you may spot raptors riding the thermals. Road access can be rough and trails less manicured than in the parks, so this is a better choice for confident hikers who are comfortable with backcountry navigation and carrying extra water.