Wildflower History

The first official Chico Wildflower Century was held in early March in 1981, with about 150 participants registered. While rain poured down for much of the day, about 60 tough riders slogged through to complete the entire 100 miles. The event was staged in Lower Bidwell Park, but the post-ride dinner was hastily moved to the near-by basement of a club member due to the downpour! The event was considered a success but moved to the end of April to improve odds of sunny weather. Over the years, the ride has grown in popularity, adding routes to welcome a wider range of riders. The event has moved several times as it has grown, finally settling in at the Silver Dollar Fairgrounds. Today at the fairgrounds the Saturday Wildfest has also taken root and 'blossomed' into an event that welcomes riders, their families and our entire community! Today, the Wildflower Century is the biggest annual cycling event in Chico, if not all of Northern Califronia. 

​Have a Wildflower story, photo of video you'd like to share? Email events@chicovelo.org. We'd love to hear from you!

Wildflower T-Shirt Art

Each year brings a new Wildflower Century t-shirt. Although you might not be able to collect them all, you can relive your Wildflower experiences through these images going back to 1982,the first year a t-shirt was offered. 

Videos

See official Wildflower videos as well as rider-videos from past events, shot from the road, and from above!

Picture Galleries

Browse image galleries from recent and not-so-recent Wildflower events.

Stories, ride reports, and more...

With the Wildflower going back 35 years, there were bound to be great stories from the eclectic group of riders that have participated. Take a look at some of those or send us your stories so that we can add to the recorded Wildflower history.

Chico Wildflower in the news

News stories from around the state and beyond.