A short and scenic loop with views over the city and some colorful geology.

This is one loop in the popular Hulls Gulch trail network, just outside of downtown Boise. Though it's only one possibility of many here for a short hike or jog, this loop with Red Cliffs and Kestrel trails is particularly good. It has just the right amount of elevation gain and distance to make a quick workout, but there's also plenty of scenery you could choose to slow down and enjoy.

The Red Cliffs trail goes up a little canyon between two strikingly red outcrops of sandstone. This is a visibly soft rock layer, eroding into sand that partially covers the trail. From there, Red Cliffs climbs onto a ridge with scattered sagebrush bushes, and excellent views over the city. A flatter section curves along the ridge crest before descending quickly on Kestrel trail and returning to the parking lot. Written by Jesse Weber

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Red Cliffs and Kestrel Loop

Hiking Trail

Route and Elevation