Wilson Creek to Reynolds Creek

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About

Summary

Like a mini Moab just outside of Boise, the Wilson Creek and Reynolds Creek ride in the Owyhees has an outstanding variety of terrain, from cattle trails to high desert single track. It's a perfect spring ride when the higher elevations and more northerly rides are still under snow.

Recommended by

Written by

Teresa Bruffey

Distance

0.1 miles

Varies; there are several trails you could take.

Destination Distance From Downtown

31.2 miles

Difficulty

4 of 5 diamonds

Time To Complete

0 days

Seasonality

Spring and Fall

Dog Friendly

Yes

Fees Permits

Land Website

Wilson Creek to Reynolds Creek Mountain Biking

Review

Intro

From the gorge at Reynolds Creek and the shady path along Wilson Creek, to the gigantic views of the Snake River Plains and the hills above Boise, this half day ride in the Owyhee Mountains is well worth the one hour drive.

What Makes It Great

The variety of terrain is outstanding, taking you from cattle trails to high desert single track. Leaving the trailhead, just a minute down the trail, you’ll find yourself on one of Idaho’s best spring rides. While trails in the higher elevations and more northerly areas are still covered in snow at this time of year, the route from Wilson Creek to Reynolds Creek is usually ready to be ridden.

Starting from the Wilson Creek Trailhead in the stark landscape, a gently sloping uphill opens up to the vast Owyhee Wilderness with gorgeous views. Cresting a ridge, you’ll come down into a gulch making your way towards Reynolds Creek and its beautiful gorge. As you ride, keep an eye out for herds of wild horses.

There are some fun, smooth rollercoaster-style single track sections and you won't quickly forget the technical traverse of the China Wall – actually built back in the day by Chinese immigrants who used to haul carts out of the canyon. When you come up to the China Wall section in the Reynolds Creek area during high water, and you’re trying to walk your bike around the rock overhang, keep an eye out for both rattlesnakes and poison ivy.

Also, be sure to bring lots of water - spring and fall temps can be very comfortable but in the summertime, temps soar above 100 degrees and there is very little shade to be found.

Who is Going to Love It

For a trail in the Owyhees, where trails can sometimes be tough to follow, this ride is comparably well marked. But it is still the Owyhees, so be prepared and comfortable with overland, unmarked travel and picking your way along game trails.

Directions, Parking, & Regulations

Check out local guidebook author Steve Stuebner’s post on the ride for a first-hand account.

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Location