Rainbow Search!: NCRLT Take-a-Hike series

Happy Pride, Let's Get Outside! Join us! Come make new friends or bring yours along!

It's time to Take a Hike, Pride Month Edition! Join NCRLT staff on an interactive hike at our hidden gem: the Deer Creek Preserve! This hike offers participants the opportunity to appreciate the beautiful color of the nature around us while also providing space for a supportive and bright community! LGBTQ+ folks and allies welcome!

Led by the Land Trust staff, this is a moderate hike of three to four miles, depending on participant interest. Our hike begins at the Deer Creek Trailhead and our typical turn-around is Lower Deer Creek Falls. A general overview of the trail can be found HERE.

The Preserve is 600 acres of mixed conifer forest, chaparral, and oak woodland that is bisected by Deer Creek and encompasses Lower Deer Creek falls, including the California Department of Fish and Wildlife managed fish ladder. It is surrounded by Lassen National Forest and land owned by Sierra Pacific Industries and remains one of few places within the Deer Creek watershed that has not been affected by recent catastrophic wildfires.The Deer Creek Trail begins at HWY 32 and runs through the preserve and beyond!

The group will meet at the Deer Creek Trailhead at 9am before hitting the trail. The trailhead parking is located roughly 40 miles from the Chico Park & Ride up HWY 32 on the other side of the "red bridge" that crosses Deer Creek. There is a large sign with trail information. Optionally, we will be leading a caravan to the trailhead that will meet at the Chico Park & Ride (East lot, furthest from HWY 99) at 8:00am, with a departure time of 8:15am. This is recommended for first-time visitors, as there is no cell service after you pass Forest Ranch. Carpooling is strongly encouraged as trailhead parking can be limited on weekends. Expect to be on the trail from roughly 9am-2pm and back to Chico Park & Ride between 3-3:30pm. Early departures welcome, just be mindful when carpooling.

Supportive footwear, light clothing layers, sunscreen, a hat, ample water, and snacks are recommended. There are a few, moderately steep, sections where trekking poles may come in handy for those that like extra stability and support.