Military Reserve
Military Reserve, with direct access from Downtown Boise, is an incredible place to experience all the Boise Foothills have to offer. From blooming wildflowers in the sprint to vibrant colors in the fall, there is an experience for users of all ages and abilities to explore. The 734-acre area is named in honor of the history of Fort Boise which was formerly located at the site. After the military halted its operations, the community recognized the importance of this area and the Boise Front for recreation and wildlife. The City of Boise eventually acquired the title to the property from the federal government for "recreation and public purposes." in addition to the trails that wind through the hills, Military reserve is also home to the J.A. And Kathryn Albertson Family Foundation Bike Park as well as a fenced dog park.
Conditions
No specific conditions or closures to report.
Review our full log of trail Condition Reports for the most current information.
Projects
Remedial Investigation Field Activities in Military Reserve
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) has completed Remedial Investigation field activities at the former Boise Army Barracks, a Formerly Used Defense Site (FUDS) located near Boise, Idaho in 2023. The field activities will conclude the investigation to determine the nature and extent of (what, how much, and where) potential unexploded ordinance that may remain at the site due to past military use. Initial Remedial Investigation field activities occurred in 2019, 2020, and 2022. The investigation is part of a larger nation wide effort by the USACE to investigate possible environmental contamination at FUDS sites.
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Parking
Please park only in the following designated areas.
Two trailheads accessing this area are located along Mountain Cove Road:
- Cottonwood Creek Trailhead, .5 miles up Mountain Cove Road from the Reserve Street intersection - 20 paved parking spots | Bus Route 16, N Robbins Road and Vogel Drive
- Freestone Trailhead, .9 miles up Mountain Cove Road from the Reserve Street intersection - 8 unpaved parking spots
- J.A. and Kathryn Albertson Family Foundation Bike Park - 30 paved parking spots, 1 ADA van accessible spot, 1 ADA accessible spot | Bus Route 16, N Robbins Road and Vogel Drive; on Access Bus Route
Restrooms
Restrooms are available at the Freestone Trailhead.
Trail notes
- Fall colors
- Family hikes
- Easy to moderate mountain bike loops
This trail, when combined with any number of trails in Military Reserve, makes a great loop. It affords wonderful views of downtown Boise and surrounding parts of this natural reserve. Great option for fall color viewing.
Often referred to as "the Black Forest," you won't find any European castles, but you will find a pleasant and rewarding trail through cottonwood stands and open sagebrush flats. Please avoid the volunteer trails that meander through the brush as this area is set aside for wildlife to enjoy.
Parts of this trail are surfaced with asphalt to serve maintenance of nearby communications towers. Because of this, the trail can be a good foul weather alternate and sports some fine views of the downtown area and a birds-eye perspective of Cottonwood Creek.
This trail links the Cottonwood Creek and Freestone Creek drainages and is part of the "north by Northwest" crossing of the lower reaches of the Boise Front. This trail should be avoided during winter months unless the temperature is below freezing as it is comprised of heavy clay soils that damage easily when muddy.
This trail is part of the connection between Military and Hulls Gulch Reserves. When combined with the Kestrel and Red Fox Trails, is also part of the "North by Northwest" crossing of the lower Boise Front. Please stay on trail since it crosses through a rare plant area.
- Bucktail Trail #20A Separation of USe - Bucktail Trail is open to downhill mountain bike traffic only. Uphill mountain bike access is via Central Ridge Trail. A new pedestrian-only trail named Tow Point Trail has been construction between Central Ridge and Bucktail Trails for hikers and equestrians.