Old Penitentiary/Table Rock Trailhead
Old Penitentiary/Table Rock Trailhead things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
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Great, short(ish) hike that is fairly populated. Folks should know that: 1) a lot of locals and their off-lead dogs hike here (and are super friendly); 2) we did the ascent in 30 minutes and it's a good short heart ❤️ pumper in portions; and 3) if it's been raining, the Old Pen track can be super silty/slick/steep in parts; if it's been dry, it's super dusty/slide-y. Because of the latter, we chose to head right ("Old Pen Trail") at the start of the hike to take the steep parts on the ascent, and take the upper trail (Table Rock #15) on the descent (more rocks, less slippery). We did this as a brief hike before a long car ride home, but next time we'll explore the off-shoots (quarry trail, tram trail, etc) and make it longer. Views of Boise and mountain ranges in distance were fantastic.
Ellen Moore
00
Beautiful place I love taking walks with my camera this was from a few day's ago very colorful in the fall and early winter and nice place to hike and run a few good biking loops that are very technical if you like bolders and stairs short but fun the prison is worth checking out to even just the outside you can take tour's of it and there's a rock hound museum tucked in the corner a nice picture of what Idaho has to offer down to the infamous Opal a park and basketball court and tennis court and a play ground sit just below the main parking lot all in all a well rounded place two restrooms worth mentioning one note: if it's rainy the clay ritch soil gets really sticky not the best rainy day hike
james cook
00
There are so many variations of trails from this parking lot. We ended up on a different trail than I've ever done because of the mud this trip. We tried to stay out of the mud and on dryer trails, but it was really hard to do. The trail we took was a loop from the parking lot along the rim looking over the lot and penitentiary. We then just walked around down below to do a bit more walking to stay off the trails and out of the mud. It is always a beautiful view overlooking the city. There were a lot of signs of deer. Hoove marks and pellets everywhere.
Joanie Benham
00
Challenge yourself with this popular and very uphill trail. It's a relentless climb at times, but rewarding if you make it to the top or even just some of the lower overlooks. Bring plenty of water and sun protection, and expect to take some breaks; give it about 3 hours unless you're a real trail monster! Decent amount of parking at the trailhead. There are usually lots of people around so it's pretty safe throughout the day. Olympic Otter
Steve Hiday
00
Great trail and amazing overlook! I liked the educational signs along the trail describing the Boise history and geological features. The hike was 3.1 miles and took about an hour and 40 minutes with a modest break at the top. This trail got your heart pumping but was fitting for all ages. The path was wide and terrain mostly even. Moderate sized parking lot, uber also dropped off ok. Vault (pit) toilets available, trash cans. Dogs welcome.
Hannah Jones
00
I was happy to find that this was a legitimate solid workout. About 3/3.2 miles out and back with constant increase in incline. Be sure to hydrate! I saw people turn back prior to the top and a girl getting sick. She probably underestimated the hike and was not prepared for the effort and heat. There is little if any shade spots slob the way. Overall, great workout and nice view at the top.
Kevin Lange
00
Nearby Attractions Of Old Penitentiary/Table Rock Trailhead
Old Idaho Penitentiary Site
Idaho Botanical Garden
Idaho Museum of Mining and Geology
Old Idaho Penitentiary Site
4.7
(1.6K)
Click for details
Idaho Botanical Garden
4.7
(1.4K)
Click for details
Idaho Museum of Mining and Geology
4.7
(71)
Click for details
Nearby Restaurants Of Old Penitentiary/Table Rock Trailhead
Trolley House
Subway
Trolley House
4.2
(243)
Click for details
Subway
4.5
(22)
Click for details
Learn more insights from Wanderboat AIBasic Info
Address
2421 E Old Penitentiary Rd, Boise, ID 83712
Map
Phone
(208) 334-2844
Call
Website
history.idaho.gov
Visit
Reviews
Overview
4.8
(240 reviews)
Ratings & Description
outdoor
adventure
scenic
cultural
family friendly
off the beaten path
pet friendly
attractions: Old Idaho Penitentiary Site, Idaho Botanical Garden, Idaho Museum of Mining and Geology, restaurants: Trolley House, Subway
