Hiking Table Rock in Boise, Idaho: Trail Guide, Parking & Local Tips

If you’re visiting Boise and want an iconic view, one of the best ways to see it is to hike up to Table Rock. It’s a short but very steep hike that sits right above downtown and gives you panoramic views of the entire Treasure Valley. It’s one of the most popular hiking trails and most frequently used trails in the Boise Foothills and for good reason!

I’ve hiked Table Rock in spring, summer and fall, and while it’s not a super long trail, there are definitely a few things you’ll want to know before heading up.

While we’re at it, let’s be friends on Instagram and Tiktok!

Hiking Table Rock in Boise, Idaho: Trail Guide, Parking & Local Tips

Table Rock Boise is one of those hikes that looks simple on the surface, but it can surprise people once they’re on it because it is quite steep. Because it’s so close to downtown, it attracts a mix of locals, tourists, families, and runners. That accessibility is part of what makes it one of the most popular hikes in Boise!

What to Expect

Table Rock is about 3.8 miles round trip (depending on your route) and gains roughly 900 feet in elevation. The trail is steady uphill with little shade, so it can feel harder than it seems.

At the top, you’ll find the large 60-foot white cross that’s visible from downtown Boise. It lights up at night, which is a cool sight. The views atop Table Rock stretch across the valley, and on a clear day, you can see all the way to the Owyhee Mountains. It can be busy on weekends, especially in spring, summer, and fall, but the views make it worth it.

Things to Know Before You Go

Location: Table Rock Trailhead off Warm Springs Ave.
Length & Time: 3.8 miles out and back trail, I’d allocate about 2-2.5 hours to hike
Parking: Small lot at the Old Penitentiary, and you can no longer drive up to the upper parking lot
Cost: Free
Dogs: Allowed (leash required)
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for cooler temps, note that it closes at sunset daily
Shade: Very minimal, bring water and sunscreen
Terrain: Open meadows, sagebrush, hills and dirt trail

Local Tips

Go early or near sunset – Midday in summer is brutally hot. Sunrise and sunset are best for temps and photos, but the trail does close at sunset.
Check for mud closures in spring – After rain or snow, parts of the foothills may close to protect trails. Always check Ridge to Rivers before heading out and avoid hiking on muddy trails as that causes damage to them.
You can no longer drive to the top – The road to the upper lot is now closed until further notice, but you can still hike up.
Pair it with a visit to the Old Idaho Penitentiary – The trailhead is right next to the prison, and it’s easy to combine both in one outing!
Give yourself about 2-2.5 hours to complete – That’s about how long it took me and I’m an average/slow hiker!
Think this hike might be too hard for you? Here are other Boise hikes I love!
The trail is open to dog (on leashes) and horses)!
Check Alltrails – I love to check for any important updates based on the time of year I’m hiking on AllTrails.

Nearby Spots

Old Idaho Penitentiary – tour the inside and the grounds after or before your hike
Boise Foothills Trail System – Additional hiking options
Warm Springs Golf Course – Quick 9 or 18 holes after exploring
Downtown Boise – Just 10 minutes away