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Old Penitentiary/Table Rock Trailhead
4.8 ★★★★★ 479 Google reviews · Running trail in Boise, Idaho · Dawn to dusk
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Loop distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Tree cover
- Access
- Dawn to dusk
Confirmed from Old Penitentiary/Table Rock Trailhead's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Popular hiking destination with views of Boise and Treasure Valley, open only to foot traffic.
What runners say about Old Penitentiary/Table Rock Trailhead
“When you get to the top, take the loop around the other side of the peak - some really beautiful views of the foothills.”
“There is 0 shade, but the final view of the valley in the evening sky made it worth it.”
“Trails are well marked but there is NO shade.”
“A fairly easy trail, but with amazing views from up on top.”
Great hike with spectacular views of the city. No shade whatsoever, so bring lots of water and sunscreen. It's a pretty steady incline all the way up. When you get to the top, take the loop around the other side of the peak - some really beautiful views of the foothills.
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…
This is one of my favorite spots to go for light hike. You can take the trail up to table rock from here and experience a fantastic view of Boise. There is a large dirt parking lot that usually always has spots available.
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!
Trail conditions & character
“It's a relentless climb at times, but rewarding if you make it to the top or even just some of the lower overlooks.”
“There are a couple of steep parts that are little more challenging, but there are plenty of places to catch your breath amd gather yourself if you need.”
“There is a large dirt parking lot that usually always has spots available.”
“There is 0 shade, but the final view of the valley in the evening sky made it worth it.”
“When you get to the top, take the loop around the other side of the peak - some really beautiful views of the foothills.”
“The climb gives you dry foothill air, long light over the valley, and a reminder that the city still sits inside a landscape larger than itself.”
Plan your run at Old Penitentiary/Table Rock Trailhead
The practical stuff
- AccessDawn to dusk — the gates close, so do not plan a run that finishes after dark
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeRunners describe real tree cover here — it makes a summer afternoon workable
- LightingRunners report lights on the path — useful for pre-dawn and after-work miles. Lighting and opening hours are separate things, so check both.
- At the trailheadparking — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Websitehistory.idaho.gov
- Phone+1 208-334-2844
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 6 am–9:30 pm |
| Tuesday | 6 am–9:30 pm |
| Wednesday | 6 am–9:30 pm |
| Thursday | 6 am–9:30 pm |
| Friday | 6 am–9:30 pm |
| Saturday | 6 am–9:30 pm |
| Sunday | 6 am–9:30 pm |
Running trails near Boise
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
14 Tram Trail Trailhead
4.8 ★★★★★ 50 reviews
Area with trails for mountain biking and hiking, some of which feature scenic views.
Table Rock
4.7 ★★★★★ 1,124 reviews
Well-maintained trails winding up a scenic cliff for views of the city and mountains.
The Military Reserve
4.8 ★★★★★ 690 reviews
Rustic natural-terrain park with trails, an archery range, a military cemetery & off-leash dog area.
