Idaho truly is a magical spot for hikers of every level and age group. With nearly 5 million acres of wilderness, our state is beyond perfect for exploring, no matter your recreation or adventuring style. But for those who want a quick escape into nature without an extended road trip or investing in expensive gear, urban hiking is the perfect option! Fortunately, Idaho's capital city is particularly blessed to be nestled in a picturesque valley beneath the foothills, which are gentle enough to be hiked and explored by nearly everyone.

Boise's Ridge to Rivers Trail System is an uniquely interconnected network of roads and trails that courses through Boise's landmark hills. With over 190 miles of trails, many of which are specific to particular user types and pet-friendly, this natural and beautiful escape just outside the city is worth exploring over and over, and simply full of easy hikes that also provide breathtaking views and scenic vistas.

Boise's unique Ridge to Rivers urban trail system was established in 1992.

A multi-agency partnership ensures the trails, the landscape through which they run, and the wildlife that makes the foothills their habitat stay safe, while focused trails for biking, running, or dog-walking keep the individual paths more navigable.

Pictured: Owls Roost Trail

The Boise Foothills area used to be a military training zone, but today is explored by thousands every day.

While popular, the 190 miles of meandering paths ensure that everyone has their own space.

The trails are awash with vibrant wildflowers, native plants, grazing wildlife, and so much more.

It's an unexpected ecosystem that ties directly into the Boise River Valley. Many species of flora and fauna here are found nowhere else in Idaho.

From educational pedestrian-only trails and challenging bike trails to paths simply made for exploring with man's best friend, each area is maintained with a particular user in mind.

For hikers with dogs, check out Hulls Pond Loop or the Cottonwood Trail #27.

For all-ages accessible trails, try the Basalt Trail #101 or the Oregon Trail #103. But you'll enjoy yourself no matter which trail you choose!

During the fall, some trails are perfect for viewing autumn's changing colors, and lead to scenic overlooks of Boise's namesake trees.

Idaho is special in that our trees aren't the only thing that change colors come fall. Many of our state's native shrubs provide an extra splash of color that makes a fall journey through the system incredibly beautiful!

In many ways, the Ridge to Rivers Trail System is a hidden gem.

While well-loved by Boise locals, many national travel sites have overlooked the beauty of this area simply because to those unfamiliar or uninitiated into Idaho culture, the desert landscape isn't very appealing...

But we think it's absolutely gorgeous.

How about you?

The magnificent beauty of Boise's Ridge to Rivers Trail System is that it never fails to surprise, relax, and inspire those who explore it. Every season on the trails offers something different to see and experience -- and it's right in the heart of downtown. Yet, despite its urban locale, these trails through the foothills will make you feel a million miles away. No other state has anything like it!

For maps of each of the trails mentioned above (and dozens more), check out the City of Boise's Ridge to Rivers website.

For trail conditions as the seasons continue to change, check out the official page here.

And for novice hikers and outdoor-enthusiasts who want to explore trails outside the Boise metro, check out this list of 9 Short and Sweet Hikes Under 5 Miles.