Our vision is to share riding loops, routes, and out-and-backs for anyone new to mountain biking in the Treasure Valley. We classify riders by their climbing abilities: new riders can climb under 250', beginners can handle 250-750', and intermediates can tackle 750-1500' of elevation gain. Each blog post will provide the distance and elevation required for each ride, along with our suggested direction for the best user experience based on skill level. Join us as we explore the beautiful trails of Boise and help you build your mountain biking skills, one ride at a time.
Welcome back to our blog series on beginner mountain biking in the Boise Foothills! Today, we're excited to introduce our first beginner-friendly trail: Bucktail.
This trail is special because it's currently the only dedicated mountain bike trail in the Boise Foothills, making it a must-ride for anyone new to the sport. Whether you're just starting out or looking for a fun, easy ride. Bucktail is a 1.30-mile, perfect for beginners who want to build their confidence on the trails.
PARKING: Three Bears Trailhead
https://maps.app.goo.gl/k4hRahkawdszLHXT7
For the best experience, we recommend parking at the closest lot, the Three Bears Trailhead (also known as the Archery Range Parking Lot). Grab your bike, gear up, and let's hit the Bucktail trail for some lighthearted fun and adventure!
From the parking lot, your adventure kicks off with your first real challenge! You'll start by riding up Ridge Crest Trail until you connect to Central Ridge. This initial climb boasts a 10% grade—a true test for new riders.
Make sure you're in your easiest gear and ready to conquer the hill. Take it slow, keep a steady pace, and don't forget to breathe! Once you reach the signpost, take a well-deserved break, catch your breath, and soak in the view of downtown Boise.
From the signpost, gear up for another uphill challenge. This next climb has sections that hit a 12% grade but averages out to a be steady 8% grade. It's not much longer than the climb you just conquered, so don't stress—you’ve got this! If you're struggling with the climb, that's okay; walk the bike up the steep sections.
Take your time, keep a steady pace, and work your way up to the Central Ridge trail marker. By the time you reach it, you will have climbed about 150', marking the halfway point of your climbing for this route. Keep pushing forward; you're doing great!
TRAIL JUNCTION: CENTRAL RIDGE
You made it! Great job! Now it's time for a short downhill before tackling the remaining climb up Central Ridge. This scenic ascent will take you to the next trail junction with Shane's Loop Trail and our descent trail, Bucktail. This portion of the trail is 0.80 miles long and involves about 135' of climbing, with grades ranging from 3% to 8%.
Remember to take deep breaths as you climb and rest when you need a break. There are plenty of pull-outs where you can stop, catch your breath, and enjoy the view above downtown Boise.
TRAIL JUNCTION: SHANES LOOP \ BUCKTAIL
As you arrive at the Shane's Loop and Bucktail junction, take a moment to take note of this area. This is a popular junction in the Boise Foothills, and you’ll definitely find yourself back here many times. This section of trail connects to some of the more popular riding loops in the Military Reserve trails.
It's important to pause and catch your breath before you descend. You've just climbed nearly 300 feet! Take a well-earned rest before you head downhill. We want to be at our best for the ride down, so take your time and enjoy the accomplishment.
Bucktail is 1.30 miles long and mostly downhill, with a few very short sections to climb—but nothing like what you just rode. It's a very tame trail perfect for beginner riders. As you descend, focus on learning the trail. Don't ride too fast; we want to descend safely and stay in control of our bikes. Enjoy the downhill and the beautiful views.
As you exit Bucktail, you'll connect back to Ridge Crest. From here, you can choose to do another loop or descend back down to the parking lot.
Congratulations, you've just completed the Bucktail Trail! This beginner-friendly adventure in the Boise Foothills is a perfect introduction to what mountain biking is like in the Boise foothills, offering manageable climbs and rewarding descents.
Remember, the key to enjoying your ride is taking it at your own pace and savoring the journey. Whether you decide to loop back for another round or head back to the parking lot, you've taken a great step in building your mountain biking skills.
Keep exploring, stay safe, and look forward to more exciting trails in our blog series.
Happy trails, and see you on the next ride! 🚴♂️🌟