The Weekly Send: Polecat Loop
A closer look at one of Boise’s most consistent loops—Polecat. In this members-only edition of The Weekly Send, I share Strava data, ride notes, and a few thoughts on why this trail keeps pulling me back, year after year.
Welcome to the second edition of The Weekly Send!
This blog series is where I’ll be sharing a snapshot at my rides—complete with Strava data, a few photos, parking info, and thoughts on the loop.
The goal isn’t to give you a full trail breakdown (we got ride guides and trail breakdowns for that), but rather my goal is to inspire you to explore new routes and maybe try something outside your usual rotation. I’m aiming to post weekly, though it may shift to biweekly depending on the season and life’s pace. Either way, I’m glad you’re here. Now lets jump into this weeks send!
Polecat Gulch
If you’ve been riding in Boise for any length of time, chances are you’ve done a lap on Polecat. It’s one of those loops that doesn’t scream for attention, but always shows up when you need it.
Convenient? Absolutely.
Scenic? You bet.
Reliable for an after-work ride that gets your legs burning and your lungs working? 100%.
And the best part? You’ve got options.
Polecat isn’t a one-size-fits-all trail—it’s actually three loops in one, making it perfect whether you’ve got 30 minutes or two hours to spare.
Outer Loop - My Favorite
- 6.5 miles
- ~800 feet of climbing
- The full Polecat experience—riding the ridgelines, sweeping views, and classic XC flow.
Doe Ridge Loop
- 5 miles
- ~700 feet of climbing
- Slightly shorter, but still packs a punch. Great if you’re tight on time or easing back into riding.
Quick Draw Loop
- 3.4 miles
- ~450 feet of climbing
- Perfect for a quick sweat session or if you just want to stretch your legs without committing to a full lap.
Each loop flows into the next, so you can easily stack them or mix it up depending on how much gas you’ve got in the tank. Or if you're felling spicy, you can do all them. I call it the Full Tour.
The Direction Shuffle
Every year on April 1st, the direction of the Outer Polecat Loop flips direction. It is clearly marked so you always know which way to go.
In 2025, that means you’re riding it counter-clockwise—not my personal favorite, but I love that this trail keeps us on our toes and the loop really does ride well both directions. I just happen to enjoy it more clockwise.
New direction = new challenges = new PRs to chase.
And honestly, it’s kind of refreshing to relearn a trail every spring.
What to Expect on the Trail
This trail features classic Boise riding:
Sandy base, sagebrush and lots of sun exposure, and fun flow sections to keep you smiling. The riding is XC-style, so you won’t find big features or chunky tech—but that’s not the point. Polecat is about flow, rhythm, and consistency.
It’s the kind of trail that feels good under your tires, even if it doesn’t blow your mind with technical riding. The climbs are steady, the descents are fun, and the views? Underrated.
And when you're riding in and out of the ridgelines as golden hour hits; hard to beat. I have so many photos of my bike out here at golden hour. It's glorious.
Parking: Pros & Cons
You’ve got two solid options for parking at Polecat, and the right one just depends on what kind of ride you’re after. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Lower Lot
Pros:
- Closer to town
- Reliable cell service (at least for me)
- You finish your ride with a descent (always a win)
- There’s a bathroom on-site
Cons:
- A bit more climbing to start your loop
- Can fill up quick
Upper Lot
Pros:
- Slightly less climbing at the beginning
- Easy access to Peggy’s Trail and the Cartwright Ridge network if you want to extend your ride
Cons:
- No bathroom
- No cell service (for most folks)
Either lot works—it really just depends on your priorities. Personally, I lean toward the lower lot for the service, facilities, and that satisfying descent to the rig.
Why I Keep Coming Back
Polecat isn’t the gnarliest trail in Boise. It doesn’t have big jumps or rowdy rock drops. But it’s dependable, scenic, and always a good time.
It’s my go-to after-work ride.
It’s my "shake off the stress of the day" loop.
It’s the trail I ride when I need movement without pressure.
And every year, when the direction switches, it feels brand new again.
Final Thoughts
Polecat might not be a destination trail—but in a city like Boise, it’s a treasured local loop. Whether you're chasing PRs on the 6.5-mile outer loop, hammering out a quick Quick Draw spin, or linking up multiple laps for a solid workout, Polecat delivers.
So whatever version you choose—outer loop, Doe Ridge, or Quick Draw—get out there and ride it. And remember, in 2025… counter-clockwise, folks.
If you’re looking for a more detailed breakdown of the trail itself, check out the ride guide I wrote for this loop last year—it was one of my very first blog posts and still holds up as a solid intro to the route.
Forever two wheels!
-Myles
Thanks for subscribing and being part of this community—it means a lot. I’m planning to create more members-only content throughout the year, including more ride reflections like this, guest blogs, and other behind-the-scenes insights from the trail. I’m glad you’re here for the ride, and I hope this series inspires you to get out and explore more of what Boise has to offer on two wheels.