Ridge to Rivers
Winter Trail Use
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Fall 2024 Survey Results
LEARN MOREFRIDAY, APRIL 11TH TRAILS CONDITION REPORT:
Trails continue to be in great shape heading into the weekend, and with a moderate dip in the temperatures, the next few days are shaping up to be prime time to be out in the Foothills. With the above average temperatures through most of this week, all of the Lower Foothills trails should be dry, firm, and fast at this point. Spring vegetation is just starting to make its way up and out of the ground, which will likely accelerate quickly until blooming flowers are covering the hillsides again! Spring is a great time to be out here!
As you ascend to higher elevation trails, expect to find some lingering snow the closer you get to the Boise Ridge. Snow depths were turning some folks back from reaching the Ridge earlier in the week, although the rate of melting is probably happening quite quickly at this point. Be on the lookout for some downed trees and earlier spring trail damage as you make your way into areas that are just opening for this first time this year.
In the meantime, you can continue to utilize the Ridge to Rivers Interactive Map and the Wet Weather and Winter Trail Use webpage as resources as we make our way out of winter trail conditions. Enjoy the nice weather and great trail conditions this weekend!
Curlew Connector
Hulls Gulch Powerline Undergrounding Project
Idaho Power is working on a powerline undergrounding project in Hulls Gulch Reserve (starting from Camel’s Back Trail through the Grove Trailhead, up to the Foothills Learning Center). The project entails removing the overhead powerline and replacing it with an underground line along Sunset Peak Road. The purpose of undergrounding powerlines is to reduce wildfire risk and improve safety.
Initial sitework and construction started the week of February 10, with the project anticipated to wrap up in May. Idaho Power will have signage on site, but all trail and Foothills Learning Center access will remain open. People should adhere to signage and drive with caution during construction on the road.
Restoration Efforts at Hillside to Hollow Reserve
Crews continue to work on fence installation along Harrison Hollow Loop for this project, please plan ahead and choose another route if you are looking to hike or ride in Hillside to Hollow Reserve. It will give the team the opportunity to work quickly and efficiently. Thank you for your patience and understanding!
All-Weather Trail Options
In recent years, the trail team has worked to increase the number of all-weather trails available to users across the Boise Foothills. These trails feature a special topsoil mix that is less susceptible to mud and long-term damage during wet weather. Click the button below to view a list of Boise’s 15 all-weather trails and brush up on trail etiquette tips to keep in mind during the winter months.
Announcements
Cartwright Ridge Trailhead Enhancements
We are excited to announce a $200,000 grant from the Foundation for America's Public Lands that will support the improvement of the Cartwright Ridge Trailhead, enhancing trail access in Northwest Boise. When paired with an approved investment from the City of Boise of $300,000, this much needed trailhead project will create a dedicated paved parking area with two ADA accessible spots, parking for horse trailers, a restroom and more. The trailhead, which is currently a dirt lot located off Cartwright Road, provides access to Polecat Reserve and Peggy's Trail. The land is owned by the Bureau of Land Management. Construction is expected to start as early as the spring of 2025.
Seasonal Closures in place for Landslide Loop and Hawkins Range Reserve
Seasonal trail closures on three Ridge to Rivers trails started December 1. Landslide Loop Trail, Hawkins Range Reserve and all trail access, and the 8th Street Extension Road are now closed for the wintertime. Please stay off closed trails and adhere to all signage posted.
Curlew Trail Connection Closed for the Winter
Ridge to Rivers has made the decision to close the trail for the winter. New trails are softer, and tend to retain moisture longer than firmer established trails - and thus are more susceptible to damage from poorly timed use during winter months. Closing the trail for the first winter will ensure that it is allowed to firm up properly and will also ensure that the trail retains the singletrack character that it was designed to provide.
We will open the trail permanently next spring, as soon as conditions have dried out adequately. Until then please refrain from using this trail.