Homestead Trail

Escape the hectic city and reconnect with yourself, others, and nature along the Homestead Trail. This lovely route travels through dense communities of sagebrush, grasslands, and blossoming meadows, all while offering wonderful views of the surrounding mountains. Note that this trail is used as a gateway to Lucky Peak, so you may be in the company of some ambitious climbers and bikers. Note that the entirety of this hike is exposed, so be sure to bring plenty and water and wear SPF and wise to avoid it on sunny afternoons and! While unlikely, it is important to be mindful of snakes along the path.

Setting out from the trailhead off S Council Spring Road, the #12 Homestead Trail climbs northeastward into the foothills. Soon after your departure, the path will approach the Council Spring Creek, offering a great ambiance and a soundtrack of babbling water. After some hiking, the route will pull away from the streamlet, passing through sagebrush, bitterbrush, and patches of vibrant Arrowleaf Balsamroot.

Intersecting with a few (likely) dry creek beds along the way, the trail will reroute you eastwardly, climbing up a set of switchbacks to the trail’s end. From the intersection with #8 Lucky Peak, simply turn around, revel in the expansive views of Boise below, then retrace your steps along the path back to the trailhead.