The best walks and hikes in Blaine County

Embark on the Ruud Mountain and Proctor Mountain Loop for a diverse hiking experience near Sun Valley, Idaho. This moderate 5.5-mile (8.8 km) route features a substantial 1794 feet (547 metres) of elevation gain, typically requiring about 3 hours and 12 minutes to complete. You'll traverse peaceful pine woodlands, vibrant aspen groves, and expansive sagebrush meadows, all while enjoying sweeping vistas of the Pioneer Mountains and Bald Mountain.

This loop is accessible year-round, but be prepared for varied conditions and sun exposure by dressing in layers and carrying ample water. While the Proctor Mountain sections can be moderately busy, the Ruud Mountain portions offer a quieter escape. The trail begins conveniently near the Ernest Hemingway Memorial, making for an easy start.

Beyond the stunning natural beauty, this trail offers a unique glimpse into history, passing remnants of historic ski resorts. You can find an old lift shack and chairs on Ruud Mountain, and even what's believed to be the world's first chairlift on Proctor Mountain, built in 1936. It's a fantastic way to combine outdoor activity with a touch of local heritage.

The Griffin Butte trail offers a diverse hiking experience through the picturesque Smoky Mountains and Sawtooth National Forest, leading you through shaded valleys and up to expansive viewpoints. You'll traverse rolling singletrack, navigate creek crossings, and enjoy glimpses of the distant Pioneer Mountains and the town of Ketchum. Early summer brings abundant wildflowers, adding to the natural beauty of this protected habitat, which is home to deer, elk, and various birds.

This moderate 7.0-mile (11.3 km) route involves a steady climb of 1267 feet (386 metres), taking approximately 3 hours and 26 minutes to complete. The trail is part of the Adam's Gulch network, a popular area for hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders. While the main trail is well-defined, reaching the actual summit of Griffin Butte requires a Class 2 scramble, best suited for those comfortable with off-trail navigation.

Griffin Butte is a prominent peak in the Smoky Mountains, recognized as a "butte" for its isolated, steep-sided, flat-topped appearance. The trail serves as a crucial link within the Adam's Gulch system, often incorporated into longer loops like the "Adams Gulch Loop." This area is known for its rugged and wild character, providing a true sense of natural grandeur and a chance to spot local wildlife.

The Cow Creek Loop near Hailey/Ketchum offers a dynamic hiking experience, starting with a notably rocky climb from the Greenhorn Staging Area before transitioning into rolling, south-facing grassy slopes. You'll traverse beautiful green hillsides, enjoy wide-open views of the surrounding mountains, and pass cool rock outcroppings. In early summer, the meadows, particularly along the west leg, burst with wildflowers, adding vibrant color to the expansive scenery.

Planning your visit to the Cow Creek Loop is best done with an eye on the season; its open, south-facing lower sections are great for early spring outings. However, be prepared for potentially muddy conditions or lingering snow in the upper northeast portions, which can also make route finding difficult. This trail is popular with mountain bikers and horseback riders, so you'll be sharing the path.

This trail is part of an extensive system, offering several possible loop configurations thanks to its two main legs and a mid-elevation shortcut. The Cow Creek trail was reconstructed in 2007, improving its flow, and its diverse terrain ranges from challenging boulder-filled sections to meandering meadow paths. It's a great way to experience the varied landscapes of Blaine County, Idaho.

The Quigley Loop Trail offers a delightful, easy hiking experience through the scenic Quigley Canyon near Hailey, Idaho. This 1.8-mile (3.0 km) loop features a gentle singletrack path with 663 feet (202 metres) of elevation gain, making it a perfect quick escape that takes just over an hour, around 1 hour and 8 minutes. You'll traverse undeveloped natural areas, enjoying canyon views and the tranquil Quigley pond, with a chance to spot wildlife like elk and mule deer.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is easily accessible from Hailey and welcomes hikers, bikers, and equestrians. It's an ideal beginner hike and family-friendly option, though be mindful that north-facing sections can get muddy after rain. Its multi-use design and gentle terrain ensure a comfortable outing for nearly all ages and abilities.

This recreational haven is a testament to community collaboration, with public access secured through an agreement with Quigley Farm, the Wood River Land Trust, and the Blaine County Recreation District. The land is permanently protected by a conservation easement, safeguarding its ecological value as a crucial winter range for local wildlife and its role as an integral part of the larger Quigley Trails Park.

The Titus Lake Trail offers a classic alpine lake experience in Idaho's Smoky Mountains, leading you through fragrant white bark pine forests to the vibrant emerald or turquoise waters of Titus Lake. This 1.8-mile (2.9 km) out-and-back hike, rated moderate, involves 399 feet (121 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 1 hour and 5 minutes. You'll enjoy a mix of doubletrack and singletrack, with gentle climbs and switchbacks giving way to steeper sections as you approach the lake, all set against a backdrop of rugged mountain views.

To plan your visit, aim for late spring through early fall when the trail is clear of snow. The trailhead is conveniently located near Galena Lodge, but be prepared for busy weekends as the parking area can fill up quickly. It's a popular route, so an early start helps ensure a spot. Remember to bring sturdy footwear, as some sections can be dusty or loose, and layers for variable alpine conditions.

This trail is a standout in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area for its accessibility and stunning scenery, making it a favorite for families and casual hikers. It's also a multi-use trail, shared with mountain bikers and horseback riders, and is notably dog friendly, allowing your furry friends to join the adventure. The reward of reaching the tranquil Titus Lake, nestled at 8,900 feet (2,713 meters), makes the moderate effort entirely worthwhile.