Dogs Off-leash
E-Bikes
Unknown
This trail is not clear of snow until mid-June.
This trail is part of the Ridge to Rivers Pilot Program and is now One-way, CCW only.
Overview
A loop around the ski area with moderate climbs, amazing views, some great berms and fast descents. You get views all the way to Sawtooths and down into Boise.
Need to Know
The trail is well marked and connects to many other trails to create many other options.
Description
The ride starts in the main parking lot near the Simplot Lodge. From the lot you'll start climbing on the Deer Point trail. Look for the start of the trail right under the Deer Point Lift. The grades are all mellow on the
Deer Point Trail and there is ample shade and water along the trail. The Deer Point trail will then connect into the
Around the Mountain Trail.
Turn right on the Around the Mountain trail and traverse across the face of the Mountain. There are some great views as you work your way up a couple switchbacks before traversing over to the intersection with the ridge road. You'll then cross the ridge road once and then twice as you work your way around to the backside. After the second road crossing, the trail starts a gradual descent followed by some nice bermed corners.
Once on the backside you'll look out towards Idaho City and the Sawtooths. On the backside you'll cross a couple of ski runs and under the Pine Creek Lift alternating between descending and climbing. Once Mores Mountain comes into view you'll start climbing again as you work you way under Superior chairlift. There is one more short descent before the final climb to Pioneer Lodge. When you get to Pioneer Lodge you'll want to descend the Morningstar Trail to get back to Simplot Lodge.
The Morningstar Trail weaves its way down the mountain from Pioneer Lodge to Simplot lodge. There are a number of switchbacks to negotiate and also some wooden bridges on the side of the trail. It would be wise to scout the bridges before riding them since there are some definite consequences. The soil tends to get looser towards the end of the year since this trail sees a lot of traffic, so hit it early in the season for best conditions!
The entire ride provides great views all the way around and takes you by all of your favorite ski runs. There are also ample stream crossings for a dog so feel free to bring the dogs along for some high alpine singletrack.
History & Background
The trail was completed in 2013 with generous support from SWIMBA, Bogus Basin, Ridge to Rivers, and the Boise National Forest!
Contacts
Shared By:
Chris Wandervans
with improvements
by Adam May
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