Boise Winter All Weather Trails

Boise’s All-Weather Trails for Winter Riding

The Boise foothills offer several all-weather trails that remain rideable during the wetter months. These trails, maintained by the Ridge to Rivers trail organization, are built with a sandy or rocky base that allows for quicker drainage, making them ideal for winter riding.

Here’s the list of the all-weather trails in the Boise foothills, divided by area to help you plan your next winter-friendly ride.

NOTE: All of these trails are short and require you to loop for more milage or do out and backs.

Harrison Hollow Trail

Located conveniently near downtown Boise, Harrison Hollow is a popular, quick-drying trail with a sandy base that handles moisture well. This trail is ideal for a short, ride that won’t impact the trail’s condition even after light rain or snow.

Camel’s Back Area Trails

The trails behind Camel’s Back Park are accessible and winter-friendly, with a mix of sandy and rocky bases that allow them to handle wet weather:

• Red Fox Trail
• Owls Roost Trail
• Gold Finch Trail
• Red-Winged Blackbird Trail
• Hulls Pond Trail

These trails offer rolling terrain and a blend of open and shaded sections, making them great for winter riding. Since they’re located near Camel’s Back, they’re easily accessible for riders looking to stay closer to town.

Military Reserve Area Trails

The Military Reserve area features several trails that are resilient to wet conditions and provide a more rugged, adventurous experience:

• Eagle Ridge Loop
• Eagle Ridge Road
• Toll Road Trail
• Boise Bike Park Perimeter Trail

These trails have varying terrain, with a mix of sand, gravel, and packed dirt, allowing for good drainage. Military Reserve also offers more elevation changes, so it’s an ideal spot for riders looking for an all-weather ride with some climbing and descending.

Oregon Trail Area Trails (Near Highway 21)

For those looking to explore something a little further out, the Oregon Trail area near Highway 21 includes a few excellent all-weather options:

• Rim Trail
• Basalt Trail

These trails offer more open, exposed terrain with a rocky base that helps moisture drain quickly. Riding here also gives a bit of historical context, as you follow trails near the old Oregon Trail route, with scenic views of the Boise River and the surrounding foothills.

Other Tips for Winter Riding in Boise

1. Monitor Conditions with Ridge to Rivers: Before heading out, check the Ridge to Rivers trail interactive map for any updates, closures, or recommendations.
2. Consider Timing: Early mornings are often colder, so trails may be slightly frozen and less susceptible to damage if they thaw later in the day.
3. Stick to Gravel if in Doubt: If conditions seem questionable, Boise’s network of gravel roads offers a good alternative to protect single track trails.

By choosing these all-weather trails and following Ridge to Rivers’ guidance, you can enjoy Boise’s foothills responsibly throughout the winter months, helping preserve the trails for the entire community.

Alternative Routes: Gravel Roads and City Hills for Winter Workouts

If you’d rather avoid the trails altogether to minimize the risk of damage but still want a solid winter workout, Boise has a few reliable gravel roads and hilly routes that provide plenty of elevation and mileage, assuming they aren't covered in snow during the winter.

• Rocky Canyon Road: Rocky Canyon is a popular choice for winter riding. It’s a gravel road with steady climbing that provides a great workout. Unless there’s snow on the ground, it’s typically rideable year-round, making it a go-to for local riders seeking elevation.
• 8th Street Road: Another favorite, 8th Street is a winding gravel road that climbs steadily up into the Boise ridge road. It’s a challenging but manageable ride that’s perfect for getting in those winter miles without impacting softer trails.
• North End Hills: For riders looking to stay on paved routes, the North End neighborhood offers some steep city roads that are ideal for hill repeats. Keep in mind that frost and ice can be an issue, so watch for slick spots, especially in the early morning or shaded areas. When conditions allow, the North End hills offer a solid change of pace and a convenient option for elevation gain.

These gravel and city routes are excellent for winter training when trail conditions are questionable. They allow you to get your workout in without compromising the trail network, ensuring that Boise’s trails stay in prime condition for the whole community.

I’ll also be reaching out to Boise’s gravel bike community to gather their favorite winter routes and hidden gems. Gravel riders often know the best backroads and routes that are safe and scenic even in wetter conditions. When I hear back, I’ll update this post with their suggestions, so be sure to check back for more winter riding ideas to keep you pedaling all season long!

Forever two wheels!

-Myles