FATMAP by Strava

Homestead and Cobb Loop

A linkup of the two best trail rides at the foot of Lucky Peak.

Mountain Biking Difficult

Distance
13 km
Ascent
444 m
Descent
444 m
Duration
1-2 hrs
Low Point
850 m
High Point
1.2 km
Gradient
Homestead and Cobb Loop Map

This is a nicely varied ride on the side of Lucky Peak, featuring a stout climb and a bomber downhill. It makes a loop if you link with the road or Boise greenbelt between the two trailheads.

Description

Begin on Homestead trail, which climbs steeply as a dirt doubletrack. It goes past some old farm sites and orchards as it winds through narrow gullies in the hills. The grade is fairly steady but has steeper punches here and there.

When Homestead hits Lucky Peak #8, turn right and enjoy some downhill on this 4WD road. The climbing isn't over, though. You'll cross a creek and then take an uphill traverse for about one mile. The turn for Cobb trail comes at an obvious intersection on a ridge.

From there the downhill starts right away, on sandy single track with a sprinkling of natural gravel. It soon gets steeper, and crumbly slabs make the most technical sections, especially with the addition of ruts in some places. It can be a super fast descent with proper handling, but you'll need to watch for hikers coming up. Luckily the visibility is good on these open sagebrush slopes.

At the bottom of Cobb there's one short climb to connect with Highland Valley trail, then you'll ride this wide path out to its trailhead. From there, connect to the greenbelt as mapped or stick with the road to get back through the neighborhoods to Homestead trailhead.

Difficulty

Difficult

Mostly stable trail tread with some variability featuring larger and more unavoidable obstacles that may include, but not be limited to: bigger stones, roots, steps, and narrow curves. Compared to lower intermediate, technical difficulty is more advanced and grades of slopes are steeper. Ideal for upper intermediate riders.

Medium Exposure

2 out of 4

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

Remoteness

1 out of 4

Close to help in case of emergency.

Best time to visit

between April and November

Features

  • Technical
  • Picturesque
  • Road sections
  • Drops
  • Rock Slabs
  • Rock Gardens

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area