|

A
long dirt path leads Salmon Hole visitors through a lush glen of trees,
over a small trickling stream and to the edge of a cliff. Well
worn steps line the sides of the cliffs for visitors to carefully make
their way down past a small waterfall to the ever flowing Big Chico Creek.
With
one eye on the trail and another on the mesmerizing canyon view, Salmon
Hole visitors will definitely have something to talk about on the way
home. Careful steps will lead visitors to a scene which must be
experienced to fully comprehend, not told.
The colors, sounds and experiences
waiting at Salmon Hole for an eager explorer are to be envied by any individual
longing to get out of the home or office. Whether catching one of
the many turtles which live in the canyon, tanning or skipping rocks across
the creek, any Salmon Hole visitor is sure to find an activity which makes
the journey worth while.

Small trout leap from
the creek as visitors enthusiastically climb over the dozens of large
lava-rock boulders that issue a challenge to anyone brave enough to grapple
their massive sides. Salmon Hole is typically one of the more populated
sites in Upper Bidwell Park due to its unique atmosphere and variety of
spots along the creek to relax. However, it is rarely overcrowded, even
on the hottest Chico summer days.
"I like to take my friends
from out of town to Salmon Hole," said Danielle Gotchet, a Chico State
University student. "There's more places for the girls to lay out,
and the guys usually spend their time climbing rocks or throwing each
other in the water."
Although it is not a tough
bike or hike, many Salmon Hole visitors choose to drive to the site simply
because of it's large parking area and accessibility. Make sure
to wear good shoes to climb down the cliff walls. Many flip-flops
have let owners down at Salmon Hole while they were trying to negotiate
the rough terrain.
There is no emergency
phone located at Salmon Hole, but the phone at Bear Hole is very close.
Portable rest rooms are located adjacent to the parking area for visitors.
|