Observation Hill Trail

For a quick outdoor escape near Nampa, head to the trails of Deer Flat wildlife refuge. There you'll walk among sagebrush prairie on a low hill, overlooking cottonwood trees beside the water and mountains on the horizon. You might spot wildlife like waterfowl, birds of prey, rabbits, or deer. Spring is best for weather and wildflowers, but any season is good if you avoid the hottest and coldest days. There is no shade or shelter from the wind on this open grassland. The wide dirt path is mostly easy walking, but you can expect some steeper sections if you walk the whole loop. Don't miss out on the observation deck atop the hill, which has viewing scopes aimed into the distance.