'); } -->
Sunny, warm days are here, and people are ready to head out to the Foothills and enjoy the weather.
But a sunny day does not necessarily mean trails are ready for hikers and bikers.
If you encounter wet or muddy trails, go someplace else to avoid damaging them.
There are trails in Southeast Boise that are closed until April 1 to protect wildlife, including:
® Trails 8 and 9 (Lucky Peak and Hornet)
® Trail 12 (Homestead)
® Trails 11 and 13 (Cobb and West Highland Valley)
According to Ridge to Rivers, some trails can handle use in nearly all conditions, including Lower Hulls Gulch as an out/back, but not as a loop with Kestrel and Crestline.
Other trails ready for use are Red Fox, Owls Roost, The Grove and Toll Road.
The Eagle Velodrome and Cycle Park should be ready for riders, manager Dave Beck said.
According to the Southwest Idaho Mountain Bike Association's Web site, many Foothills trails are drying nicely, and good road routes to avoid muddy trails are climbing up 8th Street, Rocky Canyon Road or the "Dump Loop" starting at Hill Road Parkway and going up Seaman's Gulch Road to Cartwright Road.Ê
Three Bears Trail and Freestone Ridge Trail are also good options, SWIMBA members said.
Amy Stahl of Boise Parks and Recreation recommends walkers and hikers try the Greenbelt, the Oregon Trail sections in Southeast Boise, and the Bethine Church River Trail downstream from Barber Park.
Roger Phillips
Story Comments
We welcome comments but ask that you remain on topic. Some comments may be reprinted elsewhere in the site or in the newspaper. Comments that are profane, personal attacks or otherwise inappropriate or are off topic are subject to removal. Repeat offenders will be blocked. Do not flag comments merely because you disagree with the comment.