Photo from a previous Sierra Club hike to the Lucky Peak Dam areaJoin the Idaho Sierra Club for a hike in the Oregon Trail Recreation Area! This loop will include a gradual climb up to a ridge with views overlooking the Boise River and Diversion Dam. Our Outings Leader Laureen will stop along the way, sharing context about the rich and complex history of the land and those who traveled on it, including the land's much longer history as part of the traditional lands of the Newe (Shoshone-Bannock) people. We'll also share about the grassroots efforts to protect this space, and share out ways that participants can work with the Idaho Sierra Club to defend our public lands.
What to expect:6 p.m. | Meet at the information kiosk near the trailhead for sandwiches, introductions, and a brief review of hike safety and event expectations before we begin.
6:30 p.m. | Depart on hike, taking short breaks along the way to take in the scenery
8 p.m. | Arrive back in parking lot
Who is this outing for?Most people should be able to participate in this walk, as the trail is primarily easy and relatively flat, and we will move at a pace comfortable for all participants. Please note that the trail is not wheelchair accessible. While portions of the route are paved, most sections are on uneven dirt paths, and there will be a short uphill climb and descent as we make our way to an overlook of Diversion Dam.
Trail & accessibility informationWe'll begin on the main trail, which includes a gradual climb up to a ridge with scenic views overlooking the Boise River and Diversion Dam, where we'll take a break to take in the views and return via the loop. It is approximately 3.5 miles with 300-500ft elevation gain (most of this gain is on the short climb to the ridge).
This trail is not wheelchair accessible, and is on mostly dirt/rocky surfaces. There is minimal-to-no shade. You can find more information about the
recreation area here, and/or reach out to our Outings Leader Laureen if you have any other questions about accessibility or what to expect on the trail.
Safety:Our trip leaders will carry a full first aid kit along with extra water. We will be making a few stops along the way as needed to regroup, and to take photos. Trip leaders will be at the front, middle, and back of the group, communicating along the way to ensure all is well and that the group isn't too spread out.
FoodDinner is on us! Please let us know your dietary restrictions in your RSVP if you would like us to provide a meal.
Directions to trailhead
Coordinates:
43.54237609819514, -116.10972856116875
Google Maps link
From I-84 Heading East
Take Gowen Rd./Hwy 21 exit east toward Lucky Peak; follow Hwy 21 for 2.5 miles to trailhead entrance on right;
From Downtown Boise
Take Warm Springs Blvd, all the way east to Hwy 21 intersection; turn right and head 1 mile across the bridge and up the hill to the trailhead entrance on left.
Other considerations:Kids & families are welcome! All minors must be accompanied by a guardian.
Dogs are welcome, as long as they are well-behaved, comfortable around large groups of people and other dogs, and remain leashed at all times. Please also bring extra water for your dog, as temperatures can be warm and there is limited shade along portions of the trail.
Please fill out a separate registration form for each person, so we can have a signed waiver on file for each person.
We expect everyone joining this event to act respectfully and help create a safe and inclusive space for folks from marginalized identity groups. All participants must adhere to the standards of conduct in our
Participant Agreement
Level: Easy
Cost: Free!
Signup Instructions: Please RSVP for this event by Tuesday, June 2 at noon so we have an accurate headcount for food. If you RSVP after this point, we cannot guarantee being able to accommodate your dietary restrictions or have enough food for you.
Recommended Items: Water, clothing layers appropriate for the weather, sturdy shoes, sun protection (e.g. hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
Carpool: To conserve parking spaces at this trailhead, and ensure there is plenty of room for event participants and others utilizing these trails, you may consider carpooling with friends, family, or others attending this event. Carpooling is at the sole risk of participants, and the Sierra Club will not assume responsibility for carpools. Outings leaders will not assign which cars participants ride in. If you need a ride, or would like to offer a ride, let us know and we can share that information with other participants.
Note: Carpool transportation is at the sole risk of the participants.
Cancellation Policy: Leaders will check weather conditions the morning of the event. If the weather is considered unsafe, we will postpone the trip to a later date and communicate the new plans with all participants.