About this spot
Bear Hole is a well-known swimming and cliff-jumping hole on Big Chico Creek in Upper Bidwell Park, reached by parking at Lot E and walking about a mile on the Yahi Trail, or driving closer to Lots K/L when seasonally open. Smooth basalt ledges rise roughly 30 feet above a deep central pool, though most recreational jumps are lower, in the 3-15 foot range depending on ledge and water level. Flow and depth vary a lot by season, and city officials warn currents can be swift and unpredictable, especially just upstream at the old Diversion Dam. Jumping is a normal, tolerated local activity rather than prohibited, but water shoes and a depth check before jumping are strongly advised given cold water and shifting rock.
Safety first. Cliff jumping is inherently dangerous and can cause serious injury or death. Conditions — water depth, submerged hazards, and access — change constantly. CliffScout is community-sourced reference information, not a guarantee a spot is safe. Always assess the conditions yourself before jumping, and never jump where you're unsure. You assume all risk.
