10 hikes in the Boise area that are great for the kids
Hiking is one of the most popular activities for families because it’s a great way to get outside and move around, but it also allows for quality bonding time and a chance for the kids to learn about their local environment. Luckily, Boise is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty and plenty of outdoor activities that are perfect for families with kids.
Ridge to Rivers, an organization dedicated to maintaining more than 210 miles of trails in the Boise area, has a list of recommended trails that are perfect for the whole family.
Find those 10 picks with distance and difficulty information below:
Hulls Pond
This short hike works well for kids thanks to its length and its bird watching. It also offers beautiful views of Hull’s Pond.
→ Distance: 0.44 mile out-and-back
→ Difficulty: Easy
Toll Road Trail
Toll Road Trail is an easy hike that gives families a chance to observe local flora and fauna. Bring a plant identification book along and have tons of informational fun.
→ Distance: 1.34 miles out-and-back
→ Difficulty: Easy
Camel’s Back
Taking little hikers above the trees, this trail offers panoramic views of the park and city.
→ Distance: 1.38 mile loop
→ Difficulty: Easy
Cottonwood Creek Trail
This one is a good pick for a warmer day. The cottonwood trees on this trail provide so much shade that this hike is sometimes nicknamed “The Black Forest.”
→ Distance: 1.76 miles out-and-back
→ Difficulty: Easy
Crestline Trail
You could set up a choose your own adventure for the day. The Crestline Trail, one of the most popular trails in the Ridge to Rivers system, connects to other trails, making it a great way to start a day of hiking.
→ Distance: 2.01 miles out-and-back
→ Difficulty: Easy
Owl’s Roost
This trail is great for observing wildlife, and as the name suggests, you may even see roosting owls.
→ Distance: 1.28 miles out-and-back
→ Difficulty: Easy
Hulls Gulch Interpretive Trail
With signs about the natural features you’ll find along the trail, this hike gives visitors a chance to learn about local plants and wildlife as well as some Idaho history.
→ Distance: 7.66 miles out-and-back
→ Difficulty: Intermediate
Shane’s Trail
The open space along Shane’s Trail has scenic views of Boise’s Military Reserve and beyond. The trail is well-defined but offers a little bit of a challenge making it great for families of hiking enthusiasts.
→ Distance: 4.58 miles out-and-back
→ Difficulty: Intermediate
Red Tail Trail
This is not considered an all-weather trail, but come spring, once the weather gets warmer and the trail is no longer muddy, the Red Tail Trail is a great place to take children to see the wildflowers in bloom.
→ Distance: 5.78 miles out-and-back
→ Difficulty: Intermediate
Table Rock Trail
Table Rock is one of the iconic places in the Boise area. It’s also one of the most popular hikes because of its beautiful views.
→ Distance: 3.18 miles out-and-back
→ Difficulty: Difficult
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This story was originally published June 24, 2023 at 5:05 AM.
