52 Weeks of Fun

Not Just Destination Finders, But Destination Storytellers

City of Boise

Hulls Gulch Reserve

Hulls Gulch Reserve is a 292-acre site north of downtown Boise at the base of the foothills. The reserve is home to both the Grove and the Lower Hulls Gulch trails that are the starting point for some of the 180 miles of Ridge to Rivers trails in the foothills. Hikers, mountain bikers, dog walkers, runners, and horseback riders enjoy the trails in this area, and common wildlife seen throughout the year include great horned owls, kestrel, coyotes, mule deer, red fox, and species of snakes and lizards.

The Lower Hulls Gulch Trail is a great loop that will give hikers a taste of the foothills. Expect a moderate climb up Kestrel Trail, followed by a wide, flat traverse of Crestline Trail and a rocky, somewhat technical descent along Lower Hulls Gulch. This is a very popular loop, and Lower Hulls Gulch has many blind corners. On odd-numbered days of the month, the trail is open to downhill bike traffic, and the trail is closed to all other users. On even-numbered days of the month, the trail is open to hikers and equestrians traveling in both directions and open to uphill mountain bike traffic, The trail is closed to downhill bike traffic on those days.

Unfortunately, this area is under attack by invasive species, including Russian olive, cereal rye, white top, poison hemlock, Scotch cotton thistle, and more. Invasive plants are a leading cause of declines in native plant and animal numbers. They also displace native plants that many native wildlife species depend on for food and cover.

This hike is rated moderate at 4.3 miles with a 700-foot elevation gain. The trailhead can be reached from the east end of Camel's Back Park located on the corner of 13th and Heron Streets. Follow 9th Street to the end to find a small parking area.

City of Boise
Ridge to Rivers

A 52 Weeks of Fun Fascinating Fact about Hulls Gulch Reserve

Due to the off-leash designation, and availability of cool, clean water flowing through the creek, this is a great trail for dog owners.

Attraction Advice



Trip Advisor

The Lower Hulls Gulch trail is the starting point for about 180 miles of trails in these foothills above Boise.
Trip Advisor

The Lower Hulls Gulch trail is a well-managed and easy-to-navigate hike that gains about 700 feet in elevation.
Trip Advisor

The Lower Hulls Gulch trailhead is located in Camel’s Back Park, run by the City of Boise.
Trip Advisor

The climb up the Lower Hulls Gulch trail provides some hikers with some outstanding views of Boise.

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