Upper Ridge Nature Preserve Trails
The Upper Ridge Nature Preserve has three major trails and several connecting trails or scenic loops. For a current map and trail access information, stop by the Paradise Pines Property Owners Association office, 14211 Wycliff Way, off Skyway.

The south end of the Lower Trail starts where the gravel section of Ponderosa Way crosses the bridge over Middle Butte Creek at an elevation of just over 1900 feet. From this point the trail follows as close to Middle Butte Creek as the terrain will permit to about 1/4 mile north of "Lil Falls" where it climbs up through a lava bed and intersects with the upper trail.

The Upper Trail starts just north of 14452 Colter Way at the south end and runs generally north to Colter and Masterson. The elevation at the south entrance is about 2500 feet and drops rapidly through several switch-backs to about 2300 feet. From this point the trail climbs very gradually to about 2450 feet where it exits on Colter Way.

The Flume Trail starts at the lower end of Hupp's Ditch, an abandoned flume, and follows this ditch to a point about 1/4 mile north of Lil Falls where it joins the Upper Trail. Access to the lower end of the flume trail can be reached from The Lane Court entrance or from the new trail which cuts off of the old Carnegie Trail and follows close the seasonal creek. This new trail provides a very gradual decent to the lower end of Hupp's Ditch and is the more senic of the two connecting trails. Entrance to the Carnegie Trail is located across from 14464 Carnegie Way.

At about the mid-point of all trails you will find the "Lil Falls" interchange where all of the main trails join together. The elevation at Lil Falls is about 2100 feet and is one of the most beautiful spots in the Greenbelt. Plant identification signs have been placed on or near the best specimens of various plants (as listed on the trail map/brochure) found along the trails.

PG&E Flume Pathways

The PG&E flumes that zig-zag along the Ridge provide pathways alongside. There are three major flumes in use. These are the Hendricks Canel, from the Feather River's West Branch near Stirling City to the De Sabla powerhouse; the Miocene Canal, from the Feather River's West Branch near Coutolenc Road to the Lime Saddle powerhouse where the water is discharged into the Lower Miocene Canal along Highway 70 to the Coal Canyon powerhouse; and one from Butte Creek below Butte Meadows which goes along the upper Butte Canyon to the De Sabla powerhouse. The paths are not policed, and can be dangerous. PG&E owns the right-of-way of these flumes and paths but much of them are on private property. Next to being fun places to hike, the flumes are rich in history.

The Miocene Canal pathway is the most popular. Access via the trail behind the Feather River Hospital, which runs into the path where you'll be able to stroll over 18-inch wide catwalks. These catwalks run directly over troughs of flowing water where there is no ground for a foot path. The trail is a healthy 7-mile hike.

Popular Swimming Holes

Favorite swimming holes are near the west branch of the Feather River, Head Dam and Whiskey Flats, both located off Coutolenc Road. Another is at the end of Dean Road (off Pentz Road), a spot near the flumes. This is a location where caution prevails, as in all swimming areas. A number of technical rescues have taken place over the years.

On Bader Mine Road off Skyway (near Rocky's Club) is Little Pearl.

The Okie Dam famous for its fish ladders is located on Honey Run Road. The swimming area is above the structure.

Note for Dog Owners

Having a dog, you know it's difficult finding places where you can freely go with your pet, leashed or unleashed. Paradise has very strict leash laws, as does Butte County. Very few if any parks and trails allow pets. If you must bring your dog, be aware of regulations where you go to avoid being cited for a violation.

The Paradise Memorial Trailway which extends the length of Paradise will allow dogs, leashed. You must also pick up after your pet. The Upper Ridge Nature Preserve trails are open to dogs, again they must be leashed.