Travel Chico | Winter in Chico: The Best Things to Do, See, and Savor…

There’s something special about winter in Chico. The air turns crisp, markets trade peaches for oranges, and the parks glow green again.

From creekside hikes to skating under the city lights, Chico knows how to make the most of the cooler months. Here are a few of our favorite ways to enjoy the season.

1. Skate in the Plaza

Each holiday season, downtown Chico transforms into a festive scene with the Ice Rink in the Plaza. Grab your skates (or rent a pair), bundle up, and glide across the ice surrounded by music, lights, and the lively energy of the city center.

Just steps from cafés, shops, and restaurants, the rink makes it easy to turn a quick skate into a full evening out.

2. Hike Like a Local

Hiking in Chico is beautiful year-round, but winter might be the best time to explore. With average highs in the mid-50s and fewer crowds, it’s the perfect season to enjoy trails that feel too hot in summer.

Seasonal rains bring everything back to life. Creeks rush again, moss turns bright green, and the hills glow after a good storm.

Canyon Views: South Rim Trail

South Rim Trail 2021 1 8 CREDIT just margo 22 2

Chilly morning but we got a glimpse of the sun and amongst these dreadful foggy days there is 3

Chilly morning but we got a glimpse of the sun and amongst these dreadful foggy days there is

South Rim Upper Park 2024 3 2 CREDIT noreliac

Length: 3.9 miles
Difficulty: Difficult
Best For: A workout with a view, mountain biking, and fresh winter air
Trail Map: View map ›

For a climb with a view, head up to South Rim. These trails gain elevation quickly, rewarding you with sweeping vistas of Big Chico Creek Canyon, the basalt formations, and the Sacramento Valley.

The Creekside Escape: Yahi Trail

Yahi Trail 2022 11 17 CREDIT jennaoutdoorprevivor

Length: 9 miles out and back
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Best For: Peaceful walks, water views, and enjoying Chico’s winter greenery
Trail Map: View map ›

The Yahi Trail winds along Big Chico Creek beneath tall sycamores and oaks. After a winter rain, the creek rushes beside you, and the canyon fills with water and birdsong. The trail is generally considered easy to moderate, but it starts out simple, so you can keep it easy by turning back whenever you like.

3. Find your Favorite Heated Patio

Cool weather doesn’t mean staying inside. Chico’s restaurants and cafés make it easy to dine outdoors with heated patios and firepits.

Bundle up, grab a seat by the heater, and enjoy fresh North State flavors with good company. If you’re ready to find your go-to spot, our Heated Patio Guide has all the warm and cozy picks.

4. Warm Up with a Local Pour

Winter is a great time to discover Chico’s craft beer scene. Cozy up at Sierra Nevada Brewing Co., a pioneer in American craft beer, or visit local gems like Beer Lobo, a cozy nook with warm lighting, and Farmers Brewing, where patio heaters make the outdoor space inviting.

Don’t miss Lassen Traditional Cider, a Chico-based cidery crafting traditional, barrel-fermented ciders from heirloom apples.

Their tasting room is such a nice spot to cozy up and get warm with a rotating lineup of dry, barrel-fermented ciders, made mostly from apples grown right here in the valley.

Our favorite is the 2023 Farmhouse, crafted from apples harvested at peak ripeness in the California Cascade and Sierra Foothill regions near Chico.

And if you’re lucky, you might even be greeted by Basil, the cidery’s friendly dog who’s often laying on the couch.

Whether you prefer rich stouts, hoppy IPAs, or crisp artisanal cider, there’s no better way to warm up after a chilly day.

Had a great time with cagrownofficial when they popped in for a visit a few months back Check

5. Birding & Wildlife Watching

Winter is one of the best times to see wildlife right here in Chico. Bidwell Park comes alive with woodpeckers, hawks, and songbirds, while Big Chico Creek and the university arboretum attract ducks and herons after the rain.

It’s also the season when thousands of migratory birds pass through the North State, celebrated each January at the Snow Goose Festival, a local favorite featuring guided walks, workshops, and family events.

Birding during the Snow Goose Festival CREDIT Explore Butte County

6. Day Trips for Snow Lovers

Chico might stay mild in winter, but snow is never far away. Within a forty-five minute drive, you can trade green hills for snowy pines and crisp mountain air.

Head up to Butte Meadows or Jonesville for sledding, snowshoeing, or cutting your own Christmas tree before heading back to Chico for sunshine, good food, and a cozy dinner downtown. It’s the best of both worlds: winter fun just a short drive away, with comfort waiting back in town.

7. Find a Cheery Event

See below for Chico's holiday traditions and visit our full, searchable event calendar for more ideas.

Christmas Preview

Kick off the season in downtown Chico at Christmas Preview, a long-standing local tradition that blends holiday spirit with small-town charm.

Streets glow with lights, shop windows sparkle, and local stores open their doors for a festive evening of browsing, treats, and cheer. It’s the perfect start to holiday shopping in Chico.

Christmas Preview 2018 Chico Winter Ashley Baer 17

EBC Christmas Preview Ice Rink V2 00 29 19 07 Still014 EDITED

Christmas Preview 2018 Chico Winter Ashley Baer 11

Christmas Preview 2018 Chico Winter Ashley Baer 14

Community Tree Lighting

Gather downtown for the Community Tree Lighting, when the city sparkles to life with thousands of lights and a visit from Santa. It’s a simple, joyful evening that brings together families, neighbors, and visitors to celebrate the start of the season.

Brunch with Santa

Join the fun at Brunch with Santa, hosted by the Chico Area Recreation & Park District. Kids can enjoy crafts, games, and a visit with Santa while parents relax over a hearty breakfast.

A Very Chico Nutcracker

Experience a hometown take on a holiday classic. Each December, Chico Performances brings A Very Chico Nutcracker to life at Laxson Auditorium, blending Tchaikovsky’s music with plenty of Chico charm.

Chico Performances also presents a full lineup of shows and concerts throughout the holiday season, from festive music to family events that make downtown feel extra bright.

Victorian Christmas at the Stansbury Home

Step back in time at the Stansbury Home Victorian Christmas, a Chico tradition that brings the holidays to life in a historic 19th-century setting. Each December, the home is decorated in full Victorian style, complete with music, warm cider, cookies, and visits with Santa.