Eastside to Stack Rock

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Features Flow · Technical

The Eastside loop is a must-do for anyone visiting the Boise area, ranking as one of the top three trails in the region. This iconic 16-mile loop features 1,400 feet of climbing and offers a mix of natural and man-made features that will keep you smiling the entire time. The best way to experience this trail is by connecting it with Stack Rock. Start at Bogus Basin Road and ride towards Bogus Basin, descend Eastside Trail towards Sinker Creek, then connect with Stack Rock junction and climb back up to Bogus Basin Road.

Despite the sustained climbs, the fun and flow of the trail make it all worthwhile. Don't let the elevation gain deter you from enjoying this gem of the Boise Foothills. One of the unique aspects of the Eastside loop is that it winds mostly through shaded timber, making it a great option even during the summer heat. However, it's still wise to start early on hot summer days to fully enjoy the ride.

Eastside loop offers a quintessential Boise mountain biking experience.

Parking:
You have two options for parking: below the Stack Rock parking lot on the turnout or at the Stack Rock parking lot itself. I usually park at the turnout, which adds about a mile and 260 feet of climbing to the ride, serving as a great warm-up before the main route. Additionally, this way you avoid the extra mile of climbing at the end of your ride when you might be more tired. Choose your parking spot wisely and let's get started.

Road Ride:
To reach the Eastside trailhead, you'll need to ride Bogus Basin Road for 2.5 miles with a gentle 100 feet of climbing. This road is popular with vehicles, so remember to share the road and be cautious around blind corners.

Eastside:
The first 5 miles of the Eastside trail are the most thrilling, so make sure you're warmed up from the road ride and ready to enjoy the descent. The trail starts with a couple of switchbacks and a small rock section before connecting to the Nordic trails at Bogus Basin. Along the way, you'll find fun hip jumps and rock features to play on along the road connector. At the junctions, keep left to stay on the Eastside trail and maximize your fun.

As you descend toward Sinker Creek, continue on the Eastside Trail. You might notice a trail heading straight up the ridge—this is Pats Trail, which leads back to Bogus Basin Road. Although Sinker Creek is another enjoyable trail, it adds significant climbing to the loop, making it an adventure for another day (it's named Sinker Creek for a reason; it drops into a draw, requiring a sustained climb out).

Your next major junction will be with the DB Connector trail, which descends into Sinker Creek and Mr. Big. For our route, stay on Eastside, turning left to continue. This section is particularly flowy and fun. After a few switchbacks, you'll connect with the Sinker Creek climb out. There is a short bridge here, stay on Eastside and begin the ascent towards the five-trail junction at Stack Rock and the wood hut.

Freddy's Junction:
There's a fun little hip jump at this junction—take a break here and get ready for the climb up Stack Rock Trail back to Bogus Basin Road. This climb is 2.5 miles with around 200 feet of elevation gain. Stack Rock Trail is a very popular hiking route, so remember to follow trail etiquette and yield to hikers.