Bald Rock in Berry Creek, California

Some of these photo's are from years ago and some are from this year.  Bald Rock is a really cool, easy hike if you want to kill a few hours.  The Bald Rock Dome is like a mini Half Dome.  From Oroville, California it takes less than an hour to get to Bald Rock.  People go up there to practice rock climbing, have picnics, hike around and enjoy the expansive views of the Sacramento Valley.  There aren't really any trails up there.  There is a trail from the parking lot to the rocks but after that it's just a go wherever you want to go area.  It's a pretty cool place.  If you get stuck up there after dark shine your light up in the trees.  Someone took paint and sprayed an arrow to the trail to get out which was very helpful for us the last time we went.  If you hear people chanting in the canyon below don't be alarmed there is a cancer camp for children and parents and you can hear them up on the rock.  I found this out the hard way by getting totally freaked out and luckily a friend of mine lives in that area and she told me what I was hearing.  Phew.  I was worried I was listening to a cult that I just KNEW was going to see my headlamp and come after me and kill me.  I know…..I'm being dramatic but it scared the hell out of me.

We have taken our kids up there for hiking since they were little ones.  The only things you really need are shoes with good tread, water and snacks.  The one thing I would be very careful about is the ice in the winter.  The rocks are really slippery and there's nowhere to go but down and it could potentially be a life ending hike if you take unnecessary risks.  I hope you decide to check out Bald Rock if you haven't already!  Happy hiking!