Camel's Back and Hulls Gulch Reserves
Camel's Back and Hulls Gulch Reserves provide a variety of hiking and mountain biking experiences for users of all abilities. In the early 1990s, a group of concerned residents, with the help of local and federal funding, saved Hulls Gulch Reserve from development. This paved the way for additional preservation of open space in and around Boise and continues to serve as a reminder of the incredible recreational benefits the foothills offer. Thank you for staying on designated trails and helping protect rare plants that grow in this area, including Aase's Onion and Arrowleaf Balsamroot.
Conditions
No specific conditions or closures to report.
Review our full log of trail Condition Reports for the most current information.
Projects
Camel's Back Trail Improvement Project
The Ridge to Rivers team is working to improve the trail tread along a section of trail located adjacent to the main Camel’s Back chute. This section of Camel’s Back trail is very rocky and steep, leading hikers to widen the trail as they try to find the easiest route.
Weather permitting, crews plan to add approximately 38 wooden steps in February 2026 to improve the quality of the trail, and to replace the adjacent rope fence with post and rail fencing. Upon completion the fenced area will be planted with seed and seedlings. This work is expected to take approximately 18 days to complete once it begins.
The section of trail will be temporarily closed while our team works in the area.
We appreciate your patience and understanding as the team works to efficiently complete these trail improvements!
Hulls Gulch Vegetation Management
Boise Parks and Recreation and Boise Fire are partnering to complete a series of wildfire mitigation and habitat restoration projects in the Boise Foothills in 2026, including using a masticator to remove invasive roses and fuels in Hulls Gulch Reserve. Native plants will be added following this effort, which is scheduled to take place in February at the Grove Trailhead, located off Sunset Peak Road.
The work in Hulls Gulch is expected to start in mid-February and will take approximately one week to complete (weather permitting).
Due to large machinery needed to complete the scope of work, this project will include the temporary closure of the Grove Trailhead. Signs and associated trail closures will be posted in work areas – please stay out for your own safety.
Thank you for your patience as this work is completed as quickly and efficiently as possible!
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Parking
This area can be reached from:
- 9th Street - 25 unpaved parking spots, 1 paved designated ADA space | Bus Route 16, N 9th Street and W Brumback Street
- The Grove - 24 unpaved parking spots, 1 paved designated ADA space | Bus Route 16, N 9th Street and W Brumback Street
- Hulls Gulch - 11 unpaved parking spots, 1 unpaved designated ADA space
Restrooms
Restroom available at Hull's Gulch Trailhead.
Trail notes
- Great views
- Native Grasses
- Short walk
- Easy hike/bike loop
- Riparian trees/shrubs
- Wildlife/waterfowl
The popular Camel's Back hill is a beloved local feature, but be prepared for a workout due to the steep grade and staircase leading to the viewpoint. Thank you for staying on the trail to prevent hillside erosion. Please note, trails in Camel's Back Reserve are designated pedestrian only and dogs must be on leash.
Families can enjoy a variety of routes and loops using these trails. Various kinds of birds, fox and deer are spotted on occasion. The Grove is an area of native and exotic trees providing a nice shad alternative to the hot sagebrush environment of the foothills. The Ponds Loop is a perfect short walk for small children and provides a great opportunity for bird watching. Start at Camel's Back parking area or the end of 9th Street.
This is a great loop that will give you a taste of the Boise Foothills. Expect a moderate climb up Kestrel, followed by a wide, flat traverse of Crestline and a rocky, somewhat technical descent along Lower Hulls Gulch. This is a very popular loop, and Lower Hulls Gulch has many blind corners. Please ride responsibly if you are on a mountain bike.
Special Trail Management Strategy is in place for this section.
Lower Hulls Gulch Trail #29 Odd/Even Separation of Use -
On odd numbered days of the month, the trail is open to downhill bike traffic and the trail is closed to all other users.
On even numbered days of the month, the trail is open to hikers and equestrians traveling in both directions and open to uphill mountain bike traffic (closed to downhill bike traffic).