Boise, Idaho, is a nature lover’s paradise. Nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, it offers stunning views, varied terrain, and trails for hikers of all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or looking for a relaxing stroll through nature, Boise’s hiking scene has something for everyone. Here are some of the best hikes to explore in Boise: 

• Distance: 3.7 miles round trip 

• Difficulty: Moderate 

• Highlights: Sweeping views of downtown Boise and the Treasure Valley 

One of the most iconic hikes in Boise, the Table Rock Trail offers panoramic views of the city. The trail is short but steep, making it a great workout. Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Boise and the surrounding mountains, especially stunning at sunset. 

• Distance: 6 miles round trip 

• Difficulty: Moderate 

• Highlights: Scenic foothill landscapes, wildflowers, and city views 

Starting from Camel’s Back Park, this hike offers a scenic adventure through Boise’s foothills. Hulls Gulch Reserve is a hidden gem with shaded spots, trickling creeks, and occasional wildlife sightings. The trails here offer both easy and challenging routes, making it a versatile spot for all skill levels. 

• Distance: 7.4 miles round trip 

• Difficulty: Hard 

• Highlights: Dense forest, wildflowers, and mountain views 

For more experienced hikers, the Shafer Butte Loop is the perfect challenge. Located in the Bogus Basin area, this trail takes you through beautiful forested areas, wildflower meadows, and offers incredible views of the surrounding mountains. The elevation gain is significant, but the views and solitude make it worthwhile. 

• Distance: 25 miles total (choose your length) 

• Difficulty: Easy 

• Highlights: Riverside views, wildlife, and easy access from downtown 

If you’re looking for a more relaxed and scenic walk, the Boise River Greenbelt is a fantastic option. Stretching for miles along the Boise River, this paved path offers a peaceful environment to enjoy the outdoors. You’ll pass parks, shaded spots, and may even see birds, deer, and other wildlife along the way. 

• Distance: 12 miles round trip 

• Difficulty: Moderate to Hard 

• Highlights: Shady canyons, water crossings, and mountain views 

The Dry Creek Trail offers a beautiful escape from the hot Boise summers. The trail takes you through cool, shaded canyons, with several creek crossings that add to the adventure. The route is long and can be challenging at times, but the serene atmosphere and picturesque scenery make it worth the effort. 

• Distance: 2 miles round trip 

• Difficulty: Easy 

• Highlights: Short hike, foothill views, and peaceful surroundings 

For those looking for a short and sweet hike, Seaman’s Gulch is a great option. This easy trail is ideal for beginners or families with kids, and it offers beautiful views of Boise’s foothills. It’s a peaceful spot to enjoy nature without venturing too far from the city. 

• Distance: Varies 

• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate 

• Highlights: Foothill trails, city views, and wildlife 

Military Reserve is a popular spot for hiking, mountain biking, and dog walking. Located just north of downtown Boise, it offers a variety of interconnected trails that are perfect for a short hike or a longer excursion. The views of the city and surrounding foothills are spectacular, and the area is a great spot to see local wildlife. 

• Stay Hydrated: Boise can get hot in the summer, so be sure to bring plenty of water, especially on longer hikes. 

• Wear Proper Footwear: Many of the trails are rocky and uneven, so wearing supportive hiking shoes is essential. 

• Leave No Trace: Boise’s trails are well-maintained, and keeping them that way means packing out all your trash and respecting wildlife. 

• Check the Weather: Some trails can be muddy or icy during the winter or after rain, so check conditions before heading out. 

Whether you’re looking for a challenging workout or a relaxing walk with beautiful views, Boise has a hiking trail for you. Get outside, explore, and enjoy the incredible natural beauty that this Idaho city has to offer!