Shafer Butte Loop via Lodge Cat Track Hike
Table of contents
Hiking the Shafer Butte Loop via Lodge Cat Track Hike affords a great time. This scenic circuit ascends the highest peak in the Boise Ridge Mountains, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and distant sights of the Rockies—though it's not without its challenges.
Route Description for Shafer Butte Loop via Lodge Cat Track Hike
Explore Boise’s backyard along the Shafer Butte Loop via Lodge Cat Track Hike. A busy ski hill in the winter months turned into an epic hiking oasis in the summer; this pleasant trail explores the ski slopes decorated with lush grasslands and tree stands. As shared with mountain bikers, it is important to be mindful of passers-by and ruts and rocks obstructing the path. Additionally, as much of the terrain is exposed, it is wise to wear SPF and pack plenty of water to stay hydrated. Note that there are several trails in the area, and although they are well marked, the trail GPS may prove useful.
Setting out from the trailhead off N Bogus Basin Road, the Shafer Butte Loop via Lodge Cat Track Hike passes the Pioneer’s Lodge into the mountain resort. Soon after your departure, you will reach a junction; turn right here onto the #96 Brewer’s Byway. Traveling southeast, this route contours the slopes of Shafer Butte, alternating through woodlands and exposed meadows. At the trail’s end, turn left onto the #144 Cabin Traverse, then onto the #94 Elk Meadows. This route travels north before diverting left onto the National Forest Development Road 374 up switchbacks to the summit.
Revel in the expansive vistas of the mountainous landscape, then head back down the winding path, merging left onto the Lodge Cat Track. This pleasant trail will guide you all the way to the junction near Pioneer’s Lodge. From here, retrace your steps back to the trailhead.
Getting to the Shafer Butte Loop via Lodge Cat Track Hike Trailhead
The Shafer Butte Loop via Lodge Cat Track Hike departs from the trailhead at Pioneer’s Lodge off N Bogus Basin Road.
Route Information
Backcountry Campground:
No
When to do:
April-October
Pets allowed:
Yes - On Leash
Family friendly:
Yes
Route Signage:
Average
Crowd Levels:
Low to Moderate
Route Type:
Lollipop
Shafer Butte Loop via Lodge Cat Track Hike Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
Check Area WeatherReviews
WE ARE HERE TO HELP
Let someone else do the hard work, book a custom tour in over 85 countries.
Chat with us on our contact page or fill out the form below!
Nearby Trails
Mores Mountain Loop Trail
Boise National Forest
Around the Mountain Hike
Boise National Forest
Dry Creek Trail
Boise National Forest
Pat’s Trail Loop
Boise National Forest
Snowshoe Hare Loop via Ponderosa Pine Overlook Hike
Boise National Forest
Five Mile Gulch Loop Hike
Boise National Forest
Freddy’s Stack Rock Trail
Boise National Forest
Sweet Connie Trail
Boise National Forest
Shingle Creek and Dry Creek Loop Hike
Boise National Forest
Bogus Basin Loop Trail
Boise National Forest
Homestead Trail
Colorado Springs
Dry Creek Trail
Olympic National Park