Table Rock

Table Rock is perhaps the most iconic hike in the Boise Metro Region. This highly accessible hike is a great opportunity to see the views in Boise and provides a short but solid chance to earn your cardio for the day. The prominent site is only 3 miles from downtown Boise and features an iconic glowing cross that serves as a local landmark in the southeastern section of the city. Due to building limitations in the surrounding foothills to the east of the city, this mesa marks the boundary of the city.

There are many trails that access Table Rock, but Table Rock Trail from the Old Penitentiary is one of the most commonly used. Starting from the "Old Pen" parking lot the trail winds through sage and tall grasses with a clear view of the mesa walls the entire way. A large 'B' (for Boise) is painted just under the sandstone cliffs.

Deer are prominent on this trail, especially in cooler months and early or late in the day. Lizards, snakes, hawks, and eagles are also common sights on the path.  

The flat top of Table Rock offers scenic views to visitors, with perhaps the best view overlooking Boise, the "City of Trees," tucked into the Treasure Valley of Idaho. The Boise River flows by to the south and west. To the east, the rolling foothills of Boise offer miles of mountain biking trails.  

Hikers can head down the northern part of the Table Rock cliffs via a short scramble to view the caves on the northern point of the feature. Sadly, many of these caves and the surrounding cliffs are now covered in graffiti and carvings left by recent visitors, and broken glass is common. This area needs protection and respect. Do not bring glass. Do not paint or damage the natural area. If you can, please pack up any litter in the area to help maintain this feature for years to come.