by Tanner Call
Most people in the Chico area have probably been to or at least have heard of the spot named Monkey Face located in lower Bidwell park. I would consider Monkey Face to be more of a look out spot than a hike, although there are plenty of areas to hike around or to it, depending on where you’re coming from. The name “Monkey Face” refers to the top of the rock that oddly looks very much like… a monkey’s face. That rock is the peak of the area where a lot of people hike to.
There are a number of parking lots on the road leading to Monkey Face which passes through some open fields, a gun range, and a golf course. I prefer to park at the first parking spot, and walk along a trail that leads to the back part of Monkey Face. It’s the farthest parking lot from Monkey Face out of the four. The closest parking lot is only a quarter mile from the top at most, so depending on how lazy you’re feeling, you can always elect to take the easy trail up the front of the rock.
The only thing more satisfying to look at than the rock’s uncanny resemblance to Donkey Kong is the clear view of Bidwell you can see from the top of it. From the lower end of the canyon where rushing water flows through Bear Hole river, to the endless miles of trees reaching all the way to the horizon.
Monkey Face is easily accessible. It’s a great place to drive over and catch the sunset when time isn’t on your side, take your dog out to explore and release some energy, or in some cases, post up on a quiet spot and compose your next blog post in peace.
Take A Hike 