The title is a lie. I didn’t hike around Paradise because the trail doesn’t completely go around the lake. On a day where I was yet again thwarted from getting to my first hiking destination, exploring Paradise Lake in Magalia was my next option. The trail around Paradise Lake is a pleasant walk or hike with no hills and lots of scenery on its winding path.
Paradise Lake is not Paradise Lost
If I had just asked the Paradise Irrigation Department employee where the trail led, I wouldn’t have found myself at the end of trail facing a long hike back to the car. I just assumed that the abundance of benches and porta-potties along the trail probably meant that the trail went completely around the lake. I hiked the ten miles of the “out and back trail” in 2:45 minutes. It would actually make for a great trail run.
Small lake, nice hike
Late summer blooming yellow flower stalk on the path around Paradise Lake.
Fed by Mosquito and Butte Creek, Paradise Lake impounds irrigation and drinking water for the Town of Paradise. Hence, the portable toilets are every one-half mile to encourage their use and discourage draining your bladder into the lake. Just 40 minutes south east Chico in the foothills at an elevation of 2,600 feet, the lake is surrounded by a variety of conifer and deciduous trees. Over looking the Central Valley, the trail around most of the lake is very well maintained. Except for a few locations, the wide path maintains a constant elevation all the way around most of the perimeter of the lake.
Magalia, Paradise, Chico and Oroville all enjoy Paradise Lake
Paradise Lake built in 1958 above the original water storage structure of Magalia Reservoir has obviously become a favorite spot with the locals. Many of the numerous benches have plaques in memory of families that spent numerous days hiking and enjoying the trail. Paradise Lake also has picnic tables and a playground. Non-motorized boats are allowed on the lake.
Windy, flat trail, perfect for power walking
The trail, path or road to some people follows the perimeter of the lake. It is not a hike that is full of geological or historical specimens or references. What I did like about the hike is that it was not a straight line. The trail hugs the hill side above the lake and takes you into and out of trees, from full sun to total shade. The combination of the windy trail, constant views of the lake and relatively easy hiking, allows you to forget that you are on a dead end hike.
Numerous benches line the Paradise Lake path.
Works for all hiking abilities
The locals seem to know about Paradise Lake and its wonderful qualities. For a $3 parking fee and short drive from Chico it is a nice hike that a variety of family members with differing hiking abilities can tackle and have fun. Bonus, you can’t get lost.
Click to enlarge images.
