There are many beautiful parks near Boise, Idaho. Whether it be big State Parks or tiny city parks, there are hiking trails for all skill levels in and around the Treasure Valley. These parks’ pathways offer beautiful views, a relaxed surrounding, and other impressive landmarks. Here are our recommendations for the best parks with trails near Boise.
Kathryn Albertson Park
If your looking for a quiet stroll through nature but don’t want to leave Boise city limits, I’d recommend Kathryn Albertson Park. There is no doubt you will be able to find a little serenity in this 41-acre haven. The wide paths are a mix of paved and unpaved trails, circling little ponds scattered about the property.
Probably the best thing about Kathryn Albertson Park is its abundance of wildlife. Waterfowl are regulars in these parts but tucked in little pockets of the park are also owls and herons.
Besides, ducks (and those god-awful geese. If you’ve ever had a close encounter with a goose, you know their absolute jerks) you may also share the trail to some of these cool critters:
- Salamanders
- Turtles
- Frogs
- Raccoons
- Beavers
- Rabbits
I hear there are foxes in the park as well, but I have never seen one.
Your best chance of seeing animals in Kathryn Alberton Park is to tiptoe around the ponds in the morning or at sunset while everyone is waking up or heading to bed.
Who’s this for?
Anyone who wants a quick, peaceful walk without having to leave town
Bruneau Dunes State Park
When you picture Idaho, you most likely conjure up images of mountains, forests, and rivers. But people often forget about its dry prairie deserts, which can be just as scenic. Bruneau Dunes State Park offers opportunities for some memorable hikes and unique wildlife spotting.
Get introduced to Idaho’s sandy side by climbing the largest single-structured dune in the United States. It is a 407-foot climb from the base of the dune to the tippy top.
Click here for more information on Hiking the Big Dune Trail at Bruneau Dunes State Park.
The park is roughly an hour from Boise, and you can easily spend an entire day exploring.
Who’s this for?
Bruneau Dunes State Park is an excellent spot for daytrippers who want to explore a different side of Idaho.
Lucky Peak State Park
Lucky Peak is Boise’s fastest nature getaway. In just a few minutes from the doorsteps of downtown and you can be swimming or boating in this welcoming oasis. While the water steals the attention of most of Lucky Peak’s visitors, you should not overlook the trails.
If paved walking paths are more your style. In that case, The Boise River Greenbelt terminates at Lucky Peak, making it a favorite start/end to die-hard runners and windbreaker-clad power walkers.
But to get the best views of Lucky Peak State Park, you’ll need to gain some elevation. For sweeping panoramas of the lake, make the hike up to Cervidae Peak. This leg-burning hike is only 5 miles in total, but in the 2.5 miles up to the peak, you climb over 1800 vertical feet. The scenery from the top is worth all the effort.
Click here for a trail guide to Cervidae Peak.
Who’s this for?
Lucky Peak State Park has trails that will challenge your stamina but will reward your labor with unparalleled views.
Eagle Island State Park
Eagle Island is a day-use state park, making for a quick getaway just outside Boise but still within an urban area. No long drive or camping is required for this excursion.
Eagle Island State Park isn’t known for its hiking trails, but if you asked me for a super easy, no elevation, nature trail, this would be top of mind. The paths weave you around the park’s pond and sections of the Boise River. There is no official trail, but you can piece together different areas of the park to create a nice loop like I did.
Besides hiking trails, you’ll see people enjoying the parks swimming area, ziplines, and disc golf course. Just be on the lookout for errant frisbees.
Who’s this for?
Eagle Island State Park is a perfect place for someone who doesn’t like the idea of sweating profusely but still wants a day out in nature.
Looking for even more trails to fill your Idaho bucket list? Check out our other trail guides and recommendations.
Chad can be summed up by his idea of a perfect day: Waking up early to watch the sunrise over the mountains, warm cup of coffee in hand then grabbing his camera and fly rod, hitting the trail to explore some uncharted territory followed by cold beers and campfire steaks. Chad is often joined on his adventures by his wife, Tori, and their dog, Kona.