The Military Reserve

If you are looking for a harmony of nature and history right on the city's doorstep, then the Military Reserve is exactly the place to visit. Stretching across approximately 297 hectares in the picturesque foothills of Boise, this nature reserve is a true gem of the state of Idaho in the USA. The park gets its name from the historic Fort Boise, which once occupied these lands.

Today, the reserve features an extensive network of trails, perfect for hiking and mountain biking. The landscape here is constantly changing: in spring, the slopes are covered in a carpet of wildflowers, and in autumn, they are painted in rich gold and crimson tones. This place is unique because it was transferred to the city by the federal government specifically for recreation and the preservation of the foothill ecosystem.

In addition to its wild nature, the park offers modern amenities. It is home to the popular J.A. and Kathryn Albertson Family Foundation bike park, as well as a spacious off-leash dog area. The Military Reserve is the perfect blend of historical heritage and an active lifestyle, accessible to every guest of the city.

If you need to clarify information before your visit or contact the park administration, you can use the following details:

In this park, everyone will find something to their liking, whether it's an active workout or quiet contemplation. The main draw for visitors is the extensive network of trails that wind through the hills and canyons. As you stroll along them, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the endless foothills. In spring, it's worth going on a "photo hunt" for wildflowers, and on warm days, you can find a secluded spot for meditation or a cozy nature picnic.

For adrenaline seekers, there is a specialized bike park. Its tracks are designed to be engaging for both beginners and pros looking to sharpen their skills. If you are traveling with a four-legged friend, check out the fenced dog park where pets can run to their heart's content with other dogs.

Thanks to its integration into the Ridge-to-Rivers trail system, it is easy to start a long journey from here into neighboring protected areas, such as Hulls Gulch. Bird watching, studying the unique relief of the foothills, and simply relaxing in the shade of natural alcoves make a visit to the reserve a memorable event for the whole family.

Reaching this natural sanctuary is easy, as it is located at 750 Mountain Cove Rd, Boise, ID 83702, very close to the central districts. Car owners can easily drive via Mountain Cove Road, where convenient on-site parking is provided for visitors.

For those who prefer public transport, the Valley Regional Transit buses running from the center are a great option. Stops are within walking distance of the reserve entrance. Additionally, a taxi ride from downtown hotels takes only a few minutes, making the site highly accessible for tourists.

If you enjoy walking or cycling, the journey from downtown takes about 20–30 minutes. The park is integrated into the overall foothill pedestrian network, so it can also be reached from neighboring recreational areas like Hulls Gulch while enjoying the fresh air along the way.

The past of this territory is inextricably linked to the history of the city's founding. The Military Reserve earned its name from Fort Boise, established here in 1863. At that time, the fort served as an important administrative and defensive point for pioneers traveling along the famous Oregon Trail and ensured the safety of the mining districts in the Boise River Basin.

By the end of the 19th century, once active operations in the region concluded, the site was renamed the Boise Barracks. During this period, construction began on elegant Georgian Revival style administrative buildings, many of which retain their charm today. In the early 20th century, the territory underwent significant changes: infrastructure was improved, and old roads were closed to create a more secluded atmosphere.

The park's modern status is thanks to the local residents. In the 1970s, the community united to protect these lands from development. Thanks to the efforts of the Friends of Military Reserve group, the federal government transferred the land to the city in 1981 to be used exclusively for recreational and public purposes. Today, it stands as a living example of how historical heritage can become a favorite vacation spot for many generations.

To fully enjoy the atmosphere of this place and explore the main trails, a typical visitor will need 2 to 4 hours. This is plenty of time to take a hike through the hills, appreciate the views from the observation points, and perhaps stop by the modern bike park.

If your goal is a quick morning run or a short walk with your pet in the designated area, you can manage in 1 hour. However, we recommend not rushing so you have time to observe the local wildlife and take beautiful photos against the backdrop of the scenic foothills.

The park is welcomingly open to visitors daily. You can plan your visit anytime between 06:00 and 22:00, regardless of the day of the week. This allows you to both catch the sunrise here and admire the city lights in the evening twilight.

Please note that depending on the season or weather conditions, some trails may be temporarily closed to preserve the soil cover. It is recommended to check the park's official website before your trip to verify the current status of the routes.

The park's surroundings offer many interesting locations to help make your day in Idaho's capital even more fulfilling. After a walk in the fresh air, you can head to historical districts or visit unique museums located just a few kilometers away.