Sponsored by Stahr Outfitters, makers of essential baby gear for fuss-free, adventure-filled outings – helping families trade TV for Trails.
Before the weather takes a real turn, get out on the trails with your baby on your back and enjoy the beautiful paths that surround us here in the Treasure Valley. These four hikes offer stunning views, manageable terrain, and plenty of fresh Fall air for you and your little one to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a quick stroll or a longer adventure, these spots are perfect for families with babies in tow.
But don’t forget your Hike Nanny! It connects to your baby carrier and keeps littles ones happy while preventing hair-pulling. Or the Trail Tether – the world’s only pacifier clip that’s also a gear strap. It’s impossible to pull off…go ahead and try!
Harrison Hollow:
Harrison Hollow is a lovely, easy area near downtown Boise with sweeping views of the foothills. This 2.7-mile out-and-back trail is perfect for a casual fall hike, with gentle inclines that won’t wear you out. The trail winds through sagebrush and open space, making it a peaceful and scenic spot for a low-key adventure. The cool fall breeze, combined with the golden hues of autumn, creates a perfect setting. Note that this is a VERY dog friendly trail and dogs are allowed off-leash. If dogs aren’t your thing, skip this one!
Grove Loop to the Jim Hall Foothills Learning Center:
The Grove Loop is just over a 1-mile loop with under 100 feet of elevation gain, making it a perfect stroll for carrying babies in carriers. (We featured this in our Toddler-Friendly Hikes in Boise roundup – check it out here.) Park at the Grove Trailhead on Sunset Peak Road, and follow the flat, easy trail that winds through a mix of trees and open areas. Along the way, you’ll cross the Owls Roost Trail, which is popular with mountain bikers, so keep an eye out. A stop at the Foothills Learning Center offers not only a rest break but also a fun area for little ones to explore, with a tree fort, interactive stations and a swing.
Snowshoe Hare Loop (Up Bogus Basin Road)
Snowshoe Hare Loop is a great escape from the valley, just a little ways up Bogus Basin Road. This moderate 2.5-mile loop offers beautiful fall foliage and wide, easy-to-follow paths. The trail meanders through groves of towering trees, providing shade and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The crisp mountain air is refreshing, and you might even spot some wildlife along the way! It’s the perfect trail for getting “up into the trees” while staying close to home.
Polecat Gulch Short Loop
Polecat Gulch is a scenic, family-friendly spot that’s great for a fall hike. The 3.5 mile loop trail is easy to navigate, with gentle slopes that are manageable for hikers of all ages. The wide-open spaces and panoramic views of Boise make this a picturesque spot, especially with the rich fall colors spread out across the landscape. It’s also a dog-friendly area, so feel free to bring your furry friends! The quiet, natural environment offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle of the city, making it a great way to introduce your baby to the great outdoors without straying too far from home.
Get outside, enjoy the crisp air, and soak in the beauty of Fall with these easy and accessible hikes in the Treasure Valley. Be sure to have your Hike Nanny connected to your pack for an especially stress-free experience! Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a short stroll, these trails are perfect for creating family memories while soaking up the Fall beauty.