Sunset Mountain Hike

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
4.5-6.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
15.6 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
626 m
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

The Sunset Mountain Hike is a shared route with ATVs, dirt bikes, and mountain bikers in the Boise National Forest. This pleasant route explores pine forests adorned with wildflowers, winding up the slopes of the Boise Mountain to an old fire lookout.

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Route Description for Sunset Mountain Hike

The Sunset Mountain Trail is a lovely path that hikers of most skill levels can enjoy. While the ascent up to the summit is tireless, the payoff negates the sweat. You will be granted spellbinding views of the surrounding Boise Mountains and the distant Rocky Mountains from the forested peak. As this route is shared with ATVs and motorized bikers, it is important to be mindful of passers-by. There are no water sources along the path, so pack a copious amount of water for you and your pup!

Setting out from the parking lot off the Ponderosa Pine Scenic Route, the Sunset Mountain Hike follows the Sunset Mountain Road into the wilderness. Traveling up the northwestern slopes, the path will gently switchback, contouring the forested ridges. After some hiking, you will reach a false summit—this is a great place to stop, rest and rehydrate before commencing the final push up to the peak. Beyond this point, the tree coverage will become sparser, but the wildflowers blossom.

Soon you will summit the mountain. Here you will be rewarded with panoramic views of Idaho’s mountainous landscape. Revel in the scenery, and when you are ready, retrace your footing back down the winding route to your vehicle.

Getting to the Sunset Mountain Hike Trailhead

The Sunset Mountain Hike is located off Ponderosa Pine Scenic Route.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    No

  • When to do

    June-November

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Out and back

Sunset Mountain Hike Elevation Graph

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Sunset Mountain Hike Reviews

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