Beauty can be found everywhere in Idaho…if you know where to look for it. This massive park sits in a location where you’d never expect it. Surrounding this gorgeous park are suburban neighborhoods and a busy, main street. Driving down the street, you wouldn’t expect one of the state’s most beautiful wilderness areas to be sitting right there. But it is. This hidden spot is something every Idahoan should be aware of. It boasts incredible beauty and it’s also home to dozens of types of wildlife species. Check it out.
Hidden away in the West Bench area of Boise is Hyatt Hidden Lakes Reserve. True to its name, you have to know specifically where the reserve is if you want to find it. It's tucked behind a row of suburban homes in a residential area.
For a long time, Idahoans who lived in this area had to travel near downtown or further if they wanted to "get out" and experience wilderness. This park, which was opened in 2012, made it possible to easily experience Idaho's natural beauty for many.
For years, the park was simply a giant gravel pit, creating an eyesore for the people who lived near it. Today, it's a magical oasis where the beauty is simply unending.
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This 44-acre park acts as a wildlife preserve for numerous animal species and offers visitors well-groomed hiking trails for exploring. It's funny how the preserve feels like it exists in its own little world, despite being surrounded by residential areas.
This place acts as a haven for both animals and people. The trails are easy enough for hikers of all ages and skill levels to enjoy. This makes for the perfect place to bring the family if you want to get out in nature, but don't have the time to drive far out into the wilderness.
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All sorts of wildlife can be found in the park and it's an excellent location for birding. This is a popular destination for bird watchers and photographers.
You never know what other types of wildlife you'll come across! The preserve is home to animals such as deer and even bats. In fact, the park even contains a sculpture-like structure which serves the specific purpose of housing bats.
Bats serve a special purpose to wetland habitats and therefore specific actions were made for protecting these creatures. The park also serves as an awesome educational experience and contains various signs with information regarding the park's habitat.
There's no bad time to visit the park. It's absolutely breathtaking all year long. During fall, the park comes alive with pops of red and yellow. Surprisingly, the traffic from the nearby street is masked by the sounds of birds and other wildlife. The reserve is a great place to get away from it all.
Fishing, swimming, or wading isn't allowed in the park's waters. Water passes through these wetlands, which acts as a sort of water filter by taking out the pollutants, before ultimately flowing into the Boise River.
The park is just as outstanding during winter. It's pretty amazing such versatile spaces like this exist in our beautiful state.
Really, though. Where else in the country could you find a beautiful nature area like this in the middle of town?
Hyatt Hidden Lakes Reserve is most definitely one of Idaho's greatest hidden gems. This place should definitely be on your bucket list next time you're around West Boise.
You'll find the preserve at 5301 N Maple Grove Rd, Boise, ID 83704.
Did you know about Hyatt Hidden Lakes Reserve? Don’t forget to check out these 10 Gorgeous Hidden Gems In Idaho for more secret spots you never even knew about.
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