Ride Along: Red Tail to Landslide — A Hidden Springs Ride
Join me for a ride from Red Tail Trailhead through Hidden Springs and down the fast, flowy Landslide Trail. Watch the full video or read the detailed guide to learn what to expect, how to plan your ride, and why this route is one of my favorite foothills adventures.
Welcome to this week’s Ride Along!
In this post, I’m sharing my recent ride from the Red Tail Trailhead in Hidden Springs, climbing up Chukkar Butte trail to Currant Creek and over to Landslide trail. I filmed the entire ride so you can either watch it unfold or scroll down to read a full breakdown of the route, the trails, and what to expect.
Enjoy the video — and if you prefer reading, all the details are right below!
If you're looking for a rewarding foothills ride that offers a balance of manageable climbing and fun, flowy descending, the route from Red Tail Parking lot (technically called Dry Creek Parking Lot) towards Chukkar Butte is an excellent option. This guide will walk you through my ride and what to expect.
Here is my strava link to this ride:
Route Overview
The ride begins in the Hidden Springs community of Boise, Idaho. Starting our climb up Red Tail from the parking lot (aka Dry Creek Parking lot, though no one calls it that around here) and connecting to Chukkar Butte Trail climbing toward Currant Creek trail. The initial climb is gradual and sustained, making it a good opportunity to pace yourself and warm up.
You'll climb up to Cartwright Road and continue up Chukkar Butte trail. Here you'll encounter some rocks and a couple switchbacks as you continue gaining elevation on your way to Currant Creek Trail. Expect mostly smooth single-track with occasional loose sections typical of the Boise foothills.
After a short chill climb on Currant Creek you'll descend back down to Cartwright road. This section of trail is fun and flowly, so enjoy the descent! Cross Cartwright road and continue on Currant Creek. There is some loose rock and obstructed views in the area after the road crossing so be mindful of your speeds and keep an eye out for other trail users.
You'll transition to Red Tail trail as we climb up to Landslide Trail. The climb up can be a beast, especially during the heat of summer. So catch your breath, hydrate, and prepare for the climb up to Landslide trail.
This is where the ride shifts from climbing to descending. Landslide offers a fast, flowy ride with moderate turns, manageable speed, and minimal technical features. It's an ideal trail for riders looking to build confidence with descending or for seasoned riders who simply want a relaxed downhill cruise.
At the end of Landslide just climb Currant Creek Trail back to the Red Tail junction where you climbed up to Landslide. From here you will just follow Red Tail trail all the way back to the parking lot. There is a short punchy climb between the roads, but after that you'll descend straight to the parking lot.
Trail Stats
- Start: Dry Creek Trailhead (Hidden Springs area, not Dry Creek Trail on Bogus Basin Road)
- Climb: Approximately 700–1,000 feet of elevation gain, depending on route.
- Descent: Currant Creek & Landslide Trail — smooth, fast, and beginner-intermediate friendly.
- Distance: Varies depending on the full loop, but this segment is roughly 5–9 miles out and back.
What to Expect
- Trail Conditions: Hard-packed dirt with sections of loose rock. Dry most of the year, but dusty and hot in late summer.
- Exposure: Very little shade — plan accordingly with sun protection and plenty of water.
- Skill Level: Intermediate. The climb requires basic fitness, and the descent is fast but non-technical. Beginners can explore this area if they are confident on single track and have good braking habits.
Tips for a Great Ride
- Best Season: Spring and fall, when temperatures are moderate.
- Gear Recommendation: Standard trail or XC bike; no heavy-duty enduro setup needed.
- Ride Timing: Mornings or evenings are best to avoid heat during the warmer months.
- Navigation: Trails are well-marked, loops are easy to follow.
Final Thoughts
Red Tail to Chukkar Butte to Currant Creek to Landslide is a great introduction to Boise’s foothills riding — challenging enough to feel like an accomplishment, but accessible for a wide range of riders. If you want a shorter ride out here, just ride Red Tail to Landslide and do it as an out and back.
Whether you're new to the area or just looking for a quick after-work adventure, this route delivers a rewarding ride with some of the best views around.
If you have questions about the route or tips from your own experience riding it, feel free to leave a comment!
Forever Two Wheels!
-Myles