About Freddy's Stack Rock Trailhead
Freddy's Stack Rock Trailhead offers a versatile outdoor experience within the Boise National Forest, ranging from very easy, scenic walks with amenities to challenging, long-distance hikes. It's uniquely valued for its convenient location, stunning views of Boise and the forest, and the option to customize hike length, making it suitable for various fitness levels and family needs.
What parents should know
Summarized from real visitor reviews.
Best for: Families seeking a challenging long-distance hike with older children or teens.Families looking for a convenient, scenic nature walk with basic amenities (restrooms, picnic tables) and younger children.Enjoying beautiful views of the Boise city skyline and the surrounding National Forest.A weekend outdoor activity as parking is ample even on Saturdays.Toddlers (0-3 years): Not recommended for the full 11-12.5 mile hike, even in an all-terrain stroller. However, the 'very easy dirt walking trails for viewing' near the parking/amenities are suitable.
Why families love it
- Diverse terrain with a balance of woods and mountain views
- Options for very easy, wheelchair-accessible dirt walking trails near amenities
- Opportunities for challenging long hikes up to 12.5 miles
- Stunning views of the Boise city skyline
- Conveniently located not far from town, just inside the National Forest
- Well-maintained public restrooms and picnic tables available at a parking lot along the trail
Insider tips
- Be aware of mountain bikers, especially on the longer trail sections.
- To cut 2 miles off the 12.5-mile main hike, start at the parking lot where the trail intersects with the road.
- If hiking in late April or early spring, be prepared for snow at higher elevations.
- For families with young children or those seeking a less strenuous experience, stick to the 'very easy dirt walking trails' or the sections immediately higher from the main parking area.
- Bringing a 2-year-old in a stroller for the entire 11-12.5 mile route is described as 'hard pushing' and 'not for the weak'.
Good to know before you go
- Attempting the full 11-12.5 mile hike with a 2-year-old in an all-terrain stroller if you are not prepared for a strenuous workout.
- Visiting in late spring expecting completely snow-free trails at higher elevations.
- Families sensitive to high mountain biker traffic if seeking a very quiet, solitary hiking experience.
- The full 11-12.5 mile hike is challenging, especially when pushing an all-terrain stroller with a 2-year-old ('not for the weak')
- Heavy mountain biker traffic on the trails, requiring awareness
- Crowds
- Parking seems ample and not overly crowded even on weekend afternoons.
- Value
- Free (implied, as it's a public trailhead in the Boise National Forest; no fees for entry or parking were mentioned in reviews). The value is high given the extensive trails, scenic views, and basic amenities without cost.
- Food
- Not explicitly mentioned, but picnic tables are available, suggesting outside food is permitted for picnics on the trail.
- Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible on 'very easy dirt walking trails for viewing' near the amenities.
- Safety
- No specific safety features (e.g., staff supervision, first aid station) were mentioned beyond being a public, well-used trail.
What parents say
"Absolutely fantastic hike in the Boise National Forest. 12.5 miles total- the first 6 miles or so are easy (you start by going downhill). When you get to the loop, you'll start your ascent for a good mile or so. A good balance of woods and hiking along the mountain. Tons of mountain bikers, so be aware of that. Pro-tip: You can cut 2 miles out of the hike if you start at the lot where the trail intersects with the road."
a year ago
"Definitely hard pushing a 2 Year old in an all terrain stroller. Not for the weak . It's about an 11 mile hike round trip"
9 months ago
"Real nice trail and not too far of a drive. Just inside the National forest providing a convenient hike with all the beauty of the forest."
7 months ago
Reviews sourced from public Google data.
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