A decorative metal gate at the start of the new paved trail in Chico. (Image: Kathryn Reed)

Vehicles are the nemesis of most cyclists, walkers and runners. Routes without them are safer, quieter and more relaxing.

In the spring, Chico got a new 3-mile paved stretch that is not open to cars. What makes this more unique than other paths is that the city did not pay for it.

The nearly $1 million project was paid for by Kirk Monfort who donated 5,500 shares of Apple stock to make this a reality. Monfort is an avid cyclist who wanted to keep this section of Humboldt Road a route for two-wheel enthusiasts. Chico Velo, the local bike club, was instrumental in bringing this to fruition.

The monument has signage that tells a little Chico history and explains how the trail came to be. (Image: Kathryn Reed)

It has been closed to motor vehicles since 2022. Before the road was replaced with the bike-pedestrian path it was riddled with pot holes to the point that it was more conducive to mountain biking than road bike riding.

Chico doesn’t have a ton of hills, so this is a bit of training area for folks. Elevation gain is 676 feet. I’ve ridden my bike on it from the house, and parked there to walk the 6 miles round trip.

The sides are surrounded by dry grass and oak trees. Even though it parallels Highway 32, for most of the route that busy road is in the distance.

Coming down, the expanse of Chico unfolds, with Sutter Buttes to the south.

Open space surrounds the trail, with Sutter Buttes in the distance. (Image: Kathryn Reed)

A decorative gate is at the start, with information that in part says, “For over 30 years, Kirk Monfort, David Winzenz and others met at sunrise to ride their bikes up Old Humboldt Road. Once the main wagon route connecting Chico to the mountains & beyond – the preserved wheel ruts still visible on the south side of the road – it is now a beloved destination for bicyclists, runners and hikers. This project seeks to preserve the road and its natural viewshed for future recreation.”

It’s a great addition to the network of trails in the area.