FATMAP by Strava

Hull's Gulch Interpretive Trail

A hiker-only trail with gorgeous views and lessons on nature in the Boise Foothills.

Hiking Moderate

Distance
11 km
Ascent
342 m
Descent
342 m
Duration
2-3 hrs
Low Point
1.2 km
High Point
1.5 km
Gradient
Hull's Gulch Interpretive Trail Map

With most of the foothills trails open to mountain bikes, and some even open to motorized use, it's nice to have a trail that's designated only for pedestrians. What's even better about this one is that it's really never crowded, thanks to its length and its position higher in the hills away from town. Hike a ways on this trail, and you are pretty much guaranteed a solitary experience in nature.

Description

Over the course of the trail it gains quite a bit of elevation, but the incline is gradual for the most part. You could lessen the mileage by hiking a shorter out and back, or by using two vehicles and shuttling for a one-way hike. Keep in mind that the dirt road is rather rough, however, and maybe not suitable for all cars.

The trail follows the creek of Hull's Gulch, which flows with water from snowmelt in winter and spring. The rest of the year it's usually dry, but always supports a lot of greenery in the gulch. This foliage, along with surrounding hillside prairie and granite boulders, make excellent habitat for wildlife. Among the wildflowers and rock formations you're sure to see a variety of insects, and you may also see larger residents like birds of prey, mule deer, or coyotes. There are many interpretive signs along the path that explain facts about geology, history, and ecology of the area as well.

Note that there is more than one way to access this trail. As mapped here, it begins from the large parking area along Sunset Peak Road. Alternatively, you could start from a pullout a bit farther up the road, or from the upper trailhead which is much farther up the road. You could even make a longer hike by starting with Lower Hull's Gulch instead.

Source: https://www.ridgetorivers.org/

Difficulty

Moderate

Hiking along trails with some uneven terrain and small hills. Small rocks and roots may be present.

Medium Exposure

2 out of 4

The trail contains some obstacles such as outcroppings and rock which could cause injury.

Remoteness

2 out of 4

Away from help but easily accessed.

Best time to visit

all year round

Features

  • Wildlife
  • Historical
  • Picturesque
  • Dog friendly
  • Wild flowers
  • Water features
  • Family friendly
  • Forestry or heavy vegetation

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area