Polecat Loop Hiking Guide
Polecat Gulch Reserve in northwest Boise is sagebrush hills and open sky, and the Polecat Loop is its main event: a six-mile circuit over rolling ridges with views across the Treasure Valley. It is the longest trail in the reserve, it has a one-way rule that trips up newcomers, and it is fully exposed to the sun. In spring, when the hills are green and wildflowers are out, it is one of the best walks on the Boise Front.
The Loop
Mapping apps put the loop at about 6.1 miles with roughly 750 feet of gain; Ridge to Rivers lists it at 5.8 miles. The Polecat Loop Trail is directional: everyone, whether hiking, running or riding, travels clockwise. The climbing comes in a series of rolling hills rather than one big ascent. Expect to share the trail with beginner mountain bikers, since the reserve is a popular learning area.
Leashes Required
Unlike much of the Ridge to Rivers system, Polecat Gulch Reserve requires dogs to be on a leash at all times. The rule protects the threatened Aase's onion, a rare plant found in these foothills, as well as the reserve's wildlife. Deer, coyotes, quail and hawks are all common here.
Trailhead Closure
The Cartwright Ridge Trailhead lot on North Cartwright Road closed on August 31, 2026 for a paving project and is expected to stay closed through spring 2027. The trails remain open. Use the Polecat Gulch–Collister Trailhead at the end of Collister Drive instead, which has about 15 gravel spaces and a vault toilet.
Heat and Mud
The loop is completely exposed, with no shade at all, so summer hiking should happen at dawn. In wet weather, follow Ridge to Rivers' mud etiquette: if you are leaving tracks, turn back, and walk straight through short muddy patches rather than widening the trail around them. Spring and autumn are the best seasons.
Practicalities
There is no fee to use the trail or park. Carry water; there is none on the loop. Rattlesnakes are active in warm weather. The Collister lot is small and fills on weekend mornings, so arrive early or plan a weekday outing.
Hiking tips for Polecat Loop
- Hike clockwise — the Polecat Loop is one-way for all users.
- Keep your dog leashed at all times; the reserve protects rare Aase's onion.
- Park at Collister; the Cartwright Ridge lot is closed through spring 2027.
- Go at dawn in summer, since there is no shade anywhere on the loop.
- Turn back if you are leaving tracks in mud, per Ridge to Rivers etiquette.
Nearby trails to explore
- Harrison Hollow
- Camel's Back and Hulls Gulch Loop
- Table Rock
Hike this trail with TrailMates
Polecat Loop is a great spring ramble in Boise's quieter northwest foothills. Use TrailMates to find Boise hikers for a morning loop. Download the TrailMates app to connect.