Go Climb Camel's Back!

Go Climb Camel’s Back

At only 6,525 Ft., Boise Peak is not a large mountain by Idaho standards but is does offer a fun and rewarding climb that's close to Boise. This mountain is part of the Boise Mountains’ foothills that form the backdrop to Idaho's largest city. Because of its proximity to Boise, the foothills see a lot of traffic, and because of that, this beautiful hike makes the list of Boyle’s Boise: 52 Things to Do and See.

Most of the land in the lower foothills is privately owned, while the land in the higher hills is managed by the Boise National Forest. Boise Peak itself is on forest property. The Boise City Department of Parks and Recreation operates a system of trails throughout the foothills called the Ridge to Rivers system and access to Boise Peak mostly utilizes these trails.

There is a U.S. Forest Service road that goes within 1/2 mile of the top, but hiking this mountain is a much more enjoyable experience. Boise Peak is one of the more prominent peaks in the foothills and has a large, rounded, forested summit. Because the top is quite broad, it is difficult to determine exactly where the true high point is. There are a number of small rocky outcroppings in the forested area at the top and it seems like the one on the extreme southeast is the highest. 

The view from the top is limited because it is densely forested area, but there is a wonderful view of the Treasure Valley and the Owyhee Mountains from the open ridge to the southwest of the summit.

This mountain lies in the transition zone between desert and forest climates. The lower portions of the Boise foothils are treeless and open while the higher portions are heavily forested. In the summer, the temperatures can reach well into the 100's. That, combined with the treeless, desert climate of the lower foothills makes this a difficult mountain to climb in the summer months. It is best to climb during the spring or fall. If attempted in the summer, it should really be done in the morning or evening when it is cooler.

Although not a technical mountain, Boise Peak requires endurance, and determination to reach it's summit and can be an excellent training mountain or an enjoyable climb for those who live in or visit Boise.

About Me

I have been living in Idaho for my entire life and the Treasure Valley has been my home for more than 30 years. In addition to constantly exploring the city and all of its activities, I am also very involved in the Treasure Valley’s philanthropy scene and have been working in the Mortgage industry as a Loan Officer for more than 35 years now. Additionally, my husband Michael had a 20+ year career in Real Estate. So, if you are new to the area and looking to lay down some roots for your family, get involved with some great causes, connect with like-minded people or just explore all that Boise has to offer – please let me know!