Want to keep the adventure going during the chillier months? Try snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Not only are they a great workout, but they’re a great way to explore Boise’s snowy landscape during winter months, and you can participate regardless of your skill level or ability. If you can walk, you can snowshoe and cross-country ski.
The best thing about snowshoeing and cross-country skiing is they let you move across the snow in ways you couldn’t otherwise. There’s no better way to enjoy the beauty of snow-covered Boise than strapping on snowshoes or skis. You can traverse Boise’s most popular trails even when they’re buried under feet of snow. You can even create your own trails. Better still, you won’t have to fight crowds or wait in line at a ski lift.
Nordic or cross-country skiing?
So what’s the difference between Nordic and cross-country skiing? They are actually the same; one just sounds a little fancier. Nordic skiing gets its name from the area it originated: the Nordic lands of Norway, Finland, and Sweden.
Where to rent your gear
If you’re visiting Boise, you may not have packed your ski or snowshoe gear. No problem, lots of places can hook you up. If you’re going to Bogus Basin, you can rent your gear at the Nordic Center. You can also rent from one of these locations in town:
Idaho Mountain Touring
1310 W Main Street
208-336-3854
McU Sports
2314 N Bogus Basin Rd. #0902
208-336-2300
Greenwood Ski Haus
2400 N Bogus Basin Rd.
208-342-6808
What to bring on your outing
Here’s what to bring when snowshoeing or cross-country skiing:
– Snowshoes or skis and poles
– Winter boots
– Sunscreen
– Wool socks (and an extra pair of socks in case the ones you’re wearing get wet)
– Layers of clothing
– Gloves
– Winter hat
– Backpack with water, snacks, hand warmers, and other necessary supplies
– Map and compass
Snowshoeing and Nordic skiing at Bogus Basin
Just 16 miles from Boise, Bogus Basin is one of the best places to snowshoe and cross-country ski in the area. You can rent all the equipment you need at Bogus’ Nordic Center, which is just past the main lodge parking area. This center is your gateway to more than 20 miles of groomed trails, four miles of which are lit in the evening. One of the favorite Nordic trails at Bogus Basin is the Nordic Highway, which is a wide and mostly flat path. It has rougher trails that branch off of it. More advanced skiers like to make loops with connecting trails like Sapper’s Return and Redtail. The Shafer Butte Extension offers a lot of elevation for more advanced skiers.
Must-try snowshoeing trails
Here are four popular snowshoeing trails you should try:
Adelmann Mine
Address: Adelmann Mine Trailhead, Boise, ID 83716
This scenic trail is almost 5-miles with relatively easy terrain (although it does include a steady incline on the way to the mine). At the end of the trail, you arrive at the Adelmann Mine, which is much the way it was when it closed years ago. The view from the mine is well worth the trip.
Corrals Trail
Address: 31 Corrals Trail, Boise, ID 83702
This 5.5-mile trail cuts through the scenic foothills around Boise. It’s not a looping trail, so you’ll need to plan ahead for transportation or snowshoe both ways.
West Highland Valley Trail
Address: 7596-7536 #11 West Highland Valley Trail, Boise, ID 83716
If you’re a more adventurous, experienced snowshoer, try this 6-mile trail. The first couple miles offer a steep incline. This trail is not usually busy, so you can have the views all to yourself. You can take the loop clockwise or counter-clockwise.
Central Ridge Trail
Address: 750 Mountain Cove Rd., Boise, ID 83702
This 2.9-mile trail follows the Boise River, offering breathtaking views along the way. You can combine Central Ridge Trail with the nearby Bucktail and Shane’s trails for an almost 7-mile loop. The trail has a moderate rating, making it ideal for snowshoers of all experience levels.
Must-try cross-country ski trails
Here are four of the most popular cross-country trails at Bogus Basin:
Bogus Basin East Side Loop
Address: Bogus Basin, Idaho 83629
This 2.8-mile loop is the backbone of the Shafer Butte trail network within the Boise National Forest and gains around 500 feet of elevation from start to finish.
Lower Nordic Loop
Address: Bogus Basin, Idaho 83629
Another 2.8-mile trail popular for Nordic skiing, Lower Nordic is a moderately challenging loop that is open year-round for activities.
Sapper’s Return to Weasel to Redtail Trail Loop
Address: Bogus Basin, Idaho 83629
This moderate route gains just over 200 feet of elevation in 2.6 miles.
Sidewinder Trail
Address: Bogus Basin, Idaho 83629
If you’re looking for something on the more “easy” level, this trail is just under 1 mile long, making it a great starting point for beginners or families with young children.