It’s common knowledge among Idahoans that a great hiking trail is always just a stone’s throw away. Taking advantage of the amazing trails in Idaho is a common staple when it comes to outdoor activity. Whether you’re looking for just a small jaunt or several days worth of hiking, Idaho has it all. Here we’ve gathered 10 of the best hikes in Idaho that are perfect if you only have a couple hours to spare. These short, family friendly hikes pack a lot of punch with amazing scenery in a short amount of time! So if you’ve ever searched for “hiking trails near me,” you are in luck with this great round-up of easy hikes in Idaho.
Blue Lake Trail is a 1.7 mile out and back near Cascade, Idaho. Aptly named for it's stunning views of Blue Lake, this trail can get crowded on weekends. However, on weekdays the trail returns to a quiet state. At an elevation increase of 423 feet, you'll have the perfect vantage point for a sunrise or sunset over the lake! This makes it one of the most scenic hikes in Idaho. Read more about Blue Lake Trail here.
2. Mores Mountain
Mores Mountain Loop Trailhead, FS#190 Mores Mountain Interpretive Trail (Pedestrian Only), Horseshoe Bend, ID 83629, USA
Mores Mountain is a 1.9 mile loop trail near Boise, in Bogus Basin State Park. Surrounded by forestry, this hike offers a nice change from the surrounding foothills trails. This is a moderate hike and the long, winding drive to the trailhead can test your patience. But at an elevation increase of 551 feet, you'll have a fantastic view of the Treasure Valley at the top! Learn more about Mores Mountain Trail here
Jump Creek Trail is an essential for Idahoans. The trail .5 mile out and back trail located near Marsing, Idaho and is very easy and family friendly. This is a heavily trafficked trail and the waterfall at the end of the trail doubles as a popular swimming hole for you to cool off in before making the trek back! This truly is one of the most fun and kid-friendly hikes around Idaho! Start planning your visit by reading more about Jump Creek.
4. Cress Creek Trail
Cress Creek Nature Trail, 11760-11894 S Snake River Rd, Rexburg, ID 83440, USA
Cress Creek is a 1.3 loop trail near Ririe, Idaho in Targhee National Forest. It features beautiful views of the South Fork of the Snake River. Vibrant greenery in summer and stunning fall colors make this a truly scenic hike - one of the most scenic hikes in Idaho. This is a great hike for the whole family, as the first part is paved/wheelchair accessible and informational signs along the trail tell you about geology and wildlife of the area. Visit the website for Cress Creek Trail and then pay it a visit.
5. Castle Rock Trail
Castle Rock Road, Castle Rock Rd, Idaho 83342, USA
Castle Rock is a 2 mile loop near Boise, Idaho. The trail connects to the super popular Table Rock trail, making this a good alternative to Table Rock if you want the same views and steep inclines without the crowds.
This is a 1.2 mile, moderately trafficked loop trail located near Boise, Idaho. Beautiful wildflowers are abundant on this trail. It is also listed as great for birding and horseback riding. This is definitely one of the best hikes in Idaho for birders and riders.
Anderson Ranch is a 1.7 mile out and back trail near Mountain Home, Idaho. The views of the reservoir among the Trinity Mountains makes this an incredibly rewarding hike!
Box Canyon Traill is 2.7 mile out and back near Wendell, Idaho. This is a truly unique hike, featuring views of lakes, underground springs, and a waterfall within the canyon. The best part is that this is a relatively lightly trafficked trail, making it perfect as a quiet getaway from the city!
9. Ponderosa Park Loop Trail
Ponderosa Park, 2725 N Five Mile Rd, Boise, ID 83713, USA
This is a 3 mile loop trail near McCall, Idaho with absolutely gorgeous views of the wondrous Payette Lake. The wonderful scenery and numerous beaches make this a popular spot for hikers. However, the absolute best part of this hike are the wild huckleberries available for picking! Learn more about Ponderosa Loop Trail then go visit one of the most beautiful, yet easy, hikes in Idaho.
If you're looking for a hike with an interesting bit of history, then the Oregon Trail is for you! This is a 2.8 mile out and back near Boise, with wide trails and lots of wildflowers and wildlife surrounding it. Although small in elevation gain, the trail offers a nice view of the Lucky Peak reservoir. There's something pretty incredible about hiking the same trail that settlers led their covered wagons over on their journey westward! Learn more about the Oregon Trail Historic Reserve and then mark your calendar for a visit.
What do you think? Have you gone on any of these hikes? What’s your list of best hikes in Idaho? Let us know in the comments!
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best hikes in Idaho
Jessica Bohl|March 02, 2022
What are some kid-friendly hikes around Idaho?
There are so many amazing hikes in Idaho, and quite a few are arduous and reserved just for the experienced hikers. But fortunately, there are also some hikes in Idaho that are perfect for the whole family. They are not too long, not too difficult, and offer tons of beautiful scenery. A kid-friendly favorite is the hike to Revett Lake, near the Idaho-Montana border. Lake Revett is your quintessential Idaho alpine lake: gorgeous, blue waters surrounded by towering evergreens. The hike to the lake is a 3-mile round trip with only a few mild inclines for the kids. It is hard to decide what the little ones will enjoy more – the cascading waterfall en route or the crystal clear lake at the end. This truly is one of the most kid-friendly hikes around Idaho that everyone will love. So head to the panhandle and check it out today. Read more about the hike to Revett Lake in this great article.
