Skip to main content
Camels Back Park - Boise

Things to Do at Camels Back Park

Complete Guide to Camels Back Park in Boise

About Camels Back Park

This remarkable landmark in Boise showcases distinctive architectural features and cultural significance that attracts visitors year-round, offering immersive experiences that combine historical education with sensory engagement. Entry fees typically range from $5-15 USD with discounts available for students and seniors, while guided tours provide expert insights into local history and cultural traditions that shaped this destination's unique character over centuries of development. The site's most impressive features include original construction materials and traditional design elements that demonstrate regional craftsmanship, while seasonal weather patterns create optimal visiting conditions during specific months when crowds are manageable and lighting enhances photography opportunities. Plan visits during early morning or late afternoon hours when natural light creates dramatic shadows and visitor numbers allow peaceful exploration, though comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing ensure enjoyable experiences regardless of seasonal conditions that can vary significantly throughout the year.

What to See & Do

Camel's Back Ridge Trail

The main trail that follows the ridgeline offers panoramic views of Boise and the Treasure Valley. It's a relatively easy walk that rewards you with some of the best vantage points in the city.

Downtown Boise Overlook

Multiple viewpoints along the trails provide stunning perspectives of the city skyline, especially beautiful during sunrise and sunset when the light hits the buildings just right.

Foothills Connection Trails

The park serves as a gateway to the extensive Boise Foothills trail network, with connections to longer hikes like Table Rock and the Ridge to Rivers trail system.

Native Prairie Landscape

The undeveloped hillsides showcase Idaho's high desert ecosystem, with sagebrush, native grasses, and wildflowers that bloom beautifully in spring and early summer.

Historic Neighborhoods Views

From various points, you can look down into Boise's charming North End neighborhood with its tree-lined streets and historic homes dating back to the early 1900s.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Open daily from dawn to dusk year-round. No gates or formal entry points - it's essentially always accessible.

Tickets & Pricing

Completely free. No parking fees, no admission charges. Just show up and enjoy.

Best Time to Visit

Early morning and late afternoon offer the best lighting for views and photos. Spring through fall are ideal, though winter hiking is possible when trails aren't icy. Summer mornings are perfect before it gets too hot.

Suggested Duration

Plan on 1-3 hours depending on how far you want to wander. The basic ridge walk takes about an hour, but you might find yourself lingering for the views.

Getting There

The most popular access point is from 13th Street in Boise's North End - just head north on 13th until it dead-ends at the trailhead parking area. Street parking is free but can fill up on weekends and nice evenings, so arriving early tends to work better. You can also access trails from Brumback Street or connect via other foothills trails if you're already out hiking. It's about a 10-minute drive from downtown Boise, and the North End neighborhood itself is worth a drive through with its historic homes and tree-lined streets.

Things to Do Nearby

Hyde Park
Boise's charming North End commercial district with local cafes, boutiques, and the kind of neighborhood feel that makes you want to move here immediately.
Table Rock
The iconic Boise landmark with the illuminated cross, accessible via a moderate hike that connects to the Camel's Back trail system.
Boise River Greenbelt
A paved pathway that follows the Boise River for miles, perfect for walking, biking, or just watching the ducks and occasional osprey.
Idaho Botanical Garden
A beautifully maintained 50-acre garden that's particularly stunning in spring and summer, located just a few minutes south of the park.
Harrison Boulevard Historic District
One of Boise's most beautiful residential streets, lined with historic mansions and mature trees that create a perfect canopy drive.

Tips & Advice

Bring water, especially in summer - the high desert sun can be deceptive, and there are no facilities once you're on the trails.
The trails can be muddy and slippery during spring snowmelt and after rain, so check conditions if you're planning to venture beyond the main paths.
Sunset views are genuinely spectacular, but bring a flashlight or headlamp if you plan to hike back down in the dark.
Dogs are welcome but should be leashed - you'll encounter other hikers, cyclists, and wildlife, so keeping control of your pup is just good trail etiquette.

Tours & Activities at Camels Back Park

Explore More Landmarks

Plan Your Perfect Trip

Get insider tips and travel guides delivered to your inbox

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe anytime.