BUTTE COUNTY ART, CULTURE, HISTORIC WONDERS, RICH AGRICULTURAL LANDS
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utte County exemplifies how seemingly contrasting characteristics come together perfectly. From the rural to the urban, farm to city, and mountains to valley, Butte County comes together to create a truly special experience for visitors and locals alike.
Now the urban hub of the county, the city of Chico grew out of humble agricultural roots, founded in 1860 by General John Bidwell on a portion of his 28,000-acre ranch. In 1887, Bidwell gave land for the development of an agricultural college that today stands as California State University, Chico. Chico State, as it is informally known, has helped shape the thriving Chico community and its more urban feel. Yet within walking distance of campus is Bidwell Park, a sprawling 3,670 acres that grew from a land donation from Bidwell and his wife, Annie. Today, Bidwell Park is one of the largest municipal parks in the country and largely considered the “crown jewel” of the area. Beyond the university and the park, the city’s numerous art studios and growing public art scene have helped Chico become one of America’s “Top 10 Art Communities,” according to author John Villani. Pair the everyday charm with a walkable downtown, known for its restaurants and shops; numerous downtown events, such as Thursday Night Market and Taste of Chico; and the worldfamous Sierra Nevada Brewery, and you’ll quickly discover why the area is worthy of an afternoon stroll or weekend visit. About 25 miles south of Chico, the southern part of the county features some of California’s most fertile land. From rolling hills of organic lavender in Biggs and waving fields of rice in Richvale, Butte County’s farms provide the opportunity to taste the best of the region. One of the best ways to sample the local agriculture is during the annual Sierra Oro Farm Trail’s Passport Weekend. Every October, you can wind your way through the county and discover a treasure trove of more than 30 wineries, family-owned farms and ranches, fresh markets, olive groves, and lavender fields. Thermalito Forebay Reservoir Photo: Courtesy of Explore Butte County BUTTE COUNTY
At the southernmost part of the county, Gridley continues this legacy of Butte County agriculture. Originally founded after the discovery of gold in the late 1800s, Gridley became home for many ranchers, who found their true treasure in the development of the rich agricultural land. The fertile land is also home to thousands of migratory birds who touch down at Gray Lodge Wildlife Area every year. Gold also played an important role in the history of Paradise. The discovery of a 54-pound nugget in 1859 established the town Paradise--which the town celebrates annually with the Gold Nugget Days --while it’s forested terrain and natural beauty has made it a beautiful getaway today. Oroville, nestled among the Sierra Nevadas, also owes its cityship to the discovery of gold, as it was home to hundreds of ambitious miners along the Feather River during the California Gold Rush. It wasn’t until Lake Oroville was created in 1968, though, that the little mining town became one of California’s most recognized water recreation meccas with year-round boating, fishing, and camping. Other notable attractions in Oroville include the 410-foot Feather Falls, the nation’s tallest earthen dam at Lake Oroville, the Lake Oroville Visitor Center, the Chinese Temple Museum filled with rare antiques, and Bolt’s Antique Tool Museum. Whether you’re looking for a city tour, relaxing rural escape, farm-to-fork dining, an art-filled excursion, or an outdoor exploration, in Butte County, you’ll discover that those seeming contrasts actually make the perfect pairings for a perfect getaway. For further information contact ShastaCascade Wonderland Association at 800-474-2782 or www.shastacascade.com.
Shasta Cascade Visitors Guide
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