Red Fox and Gold Finch Loop

The Red Fox and Gold Finch Loop is located within the Hulls Gulch Reserve in Boise, Idaho. You can typically find parking at the Hulls Gulch Reserve trailhead, which provides direct access to the Ridge to Rivers trail system.

Yes, the Red Fox and Gold Finch Loop is dog-friendly. Dogs are permitted on-leash on both the Gold Finch and Red Fox trails, which make up this loop.

Spring is an excellent time to jog this loop, as wildflowers bloom along the hillsides during the climb up Gold Finch, offering picturesque views. However, the trail can be enjoyed year-round, though parts of the Red Fox trail can be wet and muddy at certain times.

No, there are typically no permits or entrance fees required to access the trails within the Hulls Gulch Reserve, including the Red Fox and Gold Finch Loop. It's part of the public Ridge to Rivers trail system.

The terrain is varied. The initial Red Fox Trail sections are generally wide, gently sloped, and easy to travel. However, the Gold Finch portion introduces more challenge with considerable elevation gain, including some stairs. Declines are generally not overly steep but can be slippery if dry and dusty. Towards the end, the Red Fox trail transitions into a gravel road.

This loop is approximately 3.5 kilometers (2.2 miles) long. For an average jogger, it typically takes around 25-30 minutes to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views.

Yes, a significant highlight along the route is Camel's Back. The ascent on the Gold Finch Trail offers beautiful views, especially in spring when wildflowers are blooming.

Yes, the Red Fox and Gold Finch Loop is part of the extensive Ridge to Rivers trail system. The route incorporates sections of official trails such as Red Fox #36 and Gold Finch #35, and also intersects with others like Camelsback Trails #40 and Red-Winged Blackbird Trail #35A, offering many options to extend your run.

You can expect picturesque scenery, particularly in spring with wildflowers along the Gold Finch ascent. The views from the climb towards Camel's Back are notable. Birdwatching is a popular activity along the Red Fox Trail, so keep an eye out for various bird species.

While the Red Fox Trail is generally easy and accessible, the Gold Finch portion includes significant elevation gain and stairs, making the full loop a bit more challenging. Beginners should be prepared for some uphill effort, but it's still considered an 'easy' graded trail overall.

Be aware that the Red Fox trail can be wet and muddy at certain times, and declines on the Gold Finch section can be slippery if the ground is dry and dusty. Also, the Red Fox trail transitions into a gravel road towards the end, which might change the feel of your run.