Shane's Loop

Shane's Loop makes a scenic trail run or hike in Boise's Military Reserve open space. Part of a generous trail network, this loop is just one of many possible combinations in the grassy foothills above the city. From almost anywhere on these trails, you'll have nice views over downtown and up to the mountains. Shane's is the name of just one of the trails in this loop. You'll connect with it via Bucktail, Three Bears, and Central Ridge. The surroundings are mostly open grassland, but include some variety like a stand of forest along a creek, some wooded canyons, and rugged ridge tops. By the time you work your way up on the other trails and get to Shane's Loop, you'll be high in the hills, sharing the trail with few other people. The entire loop gains nearly 800 feet, so it's quite the workout. The trails are good quality--smooth and fast. Just be sure to go when they're dry, not after recent rain or snow because they get quite muddy. This is a great loop for running with your dog, too, because most of the trails allow dogs off leash. Another big perk about Military Reserve is the ease of access from downtown. Just a short drive north of the city center, you'll pass a bike park then come to a string of trailheads along Mountain Cove Road. The version of the loop mapped here starts from Freestone Creek trailhead, but you could vary the distance by starting from another place instead.