Your Guide to Ride the Wildflower Century

Whether you’re planning on riding your first century or your fiftieth, the Wildflower Century in Chico deserves a spot on your shortlist of rides to do in the near future. The Wildflower Century draws in riders from across the country who are eager to pedal through the foothills of the Sierra Nevada in Butte County, California. 

The Chico Wildflower is held each spring towards the end of April when the countryside and foothills of the Sierra Nevada are teeming with blooming wildflowers. Early registration for the Wildflower runs from December to the week of the event. Registration fees range from $25 to $115 depending on how early you register and what route you want to ride. 

See registration details

Routes & Stops

The Chico Wildflower Century has 7 route options in order to provide all kinds of riders a chance to experience the Wildflower. All routes start and end at the Silver Dollar Fairgrounds in Chico, CA. The Chico Wildflower isn’t a race, it’s just a good time. The routes are varied to accommodate riders of all ages, abilities, and experience levels. 

Here is our breakdown of all 7 routes available at the Chico Wildflower Century. As you consider which route is best for you, keep in mind that all riders must wear a helmet for the duration of the ride and must return to the Silver Dollar Fairgrounds by 6pm for the catered post-ride meal.

Mildflower 12

• 12 miles 
• 67’ elevation gain 
• 1 rest stop

The Mildflower 12 is perfect for more casual riders who don’t want to spend all day in the saddle. 

Childflower 12

• 12 miles 
• 67’ elevation gain 
• 1 rest stop 

This is the same route as the Mildflower, but with a different time window specifically reserved for children and their parents.

Valleyflower 30

• 30 miles 
• 162’ elevation gain 
• 1 rest stop 

The Valleyflower 30 is an extension of the Mildflower, adding some flat and easy country roads that make for a great ride.

Metricflower 62

• 62 miles 
• 2,454’ elevation gain 
• 3 rest stops 

The Metricflower 62 has a good balance of flat country roads and steep climbs, particularly from miles 12 to 16. 

Wildflower 95

• 95 miles
• 4,980’ elevation gain 
• 5 rest stops 

This is the Wildflower’s classic ride. Like the Metricflower, the Wildflower spaces out flat roads and steep climbs. After mile 63, the route is a gentle downward slope all the way to the finish. 

Mountainflower 100

• 102 miles 
• 6,775’ elevation gain 
• 5 rest stops 

This is where things start to get serious. The Mountainflower 100 avoids flat roads and heads directly for the mountains. If you love climbing – and punishment – this is the ride for you.

Megaflower 125

• 127 miles
• 7,637’ elevation gain 
• 6 rest stops 

Alright, no more messing around. The Megaflower route incorporates all of the climbing and long stretches of country roads as it can. 

Maps, Routes, and Rest Stops

The routes are subject to small changes and adjustments that vary from year to year. Make sure you carefully study your route before you start riding. All route maps are available for download via RideWithGPS. 

Check out the routes! 

Stay at The Parkway RV Resort

The Parkway RV Resort and Campground offers both a tranquil and secluded environment while being conveniently located just half a mile from I-5. Owned and operated by life-long campers and avid road trippers, the Parkway has top-notch amenities that make it an ideal place to stay while you explore nearby Chico. 

Whether you’re just passing through, or sticking around for an adventure-filled getaway, the Parkway RV Resort and Campground’s welcoming atmosphere is sure to help you create memories that will last a lifetime. Book your stay today!