
About us
Welcome to Idaho Hikers and backpackers- a community for hikers, backpackers, and nature enthusiasts who share a love for exploring the rugged beauty of Idaho.
From exploring the Sawtooths to the Owyhees, we organize day hikes, backpacking trips, snowshoeing, educational talks, and skills workshops for all experience levels.
Our mission is simple: to foster personal growth and strong friendships by sharing safe, challenging adventures and learning opportunities in hiking and backpacking. In short, where friends and nature meet.
Whether you are discovering your first alpine lake, planning a multiday trek, or climbing the highest peaks in Idaho, you'll find support, knowledge, and camaraderie here.
We believe the best way to experience Idaho is one trail at a time -- come join us and explore the wild places of Idaho.
ABOUT THE ORGANIZERS:
Scottie B, MD, MPH: local physician with a love for hiking, backpacking, and mountaineering. He has completed more than 50 backpacking trips with 3 years of organizer experience. He has climbed Kilimanjaro, Mt. Rainer, Cotopaxi, Pico de Orizaba, and Mt Whitney to name a few. He is a graduate of Johns Hopkins University and Ben Gurion University of the Negev. Read his full Biography
Michael K: is a Boise local. He grew up with a map of the Sawtooth mountains on his wall and has been hiking and backpacking ever since. He has been on countless backpacking trips and day hikes and loves to share outdoor experiences with others. Michael can always come up with a trail recommendation for any kind of hike you want to do in the mountains of Southern Idaho. Michael is certified in wilderness first aid through NOLs
John S: retired fire fighter with many years of hiking and backpacking experience. He has an interest in helping those with less experience to become confident backpackers.
HOW TO LEARN MORE
*Follow us on YouTube to experience past events:
https://www.youtube.com/@Idaho_hikers_and_backpackers
**What are the rules for our club?
* All members should be familiar with the seven leave no trace principles https://youtu.be/81hhaTr62fk?feature=shared *Be honest about your abilities.
* Be friendly and contribute to the group
* RSVP if you have a good chance of actually coming and don’t be late.
* No alcohol/drugs
* No weapons or firearms.
* Dogs allowed if on a leash and per park rules.
* No discrimination based on age, race/ethnicity, gender, or sexual orientation.
##
Upcoming events
8

Boise Grand Slam Challenge II (Overnight Camper Registration)
Albertsons 6560 S. Federal WAY Boise, Idaho, 6560 S Federal Way, Boise, ID, USWelcome to the Second Annual Grand Slam!
Join us for an exciting kickoff to backpacking season—an opportunity to connect, have fun, and take on the challenge of summiting the four “Grand Slam” peaks just outside Boise:
- Kepros (5,428 ft)
- Lucky Peak (5,904 ft)
- Mt. Heinen (6,336 ft)
- Cervidae Peak (4,987 ft)
Please take a moment to read through the details below so we’re all on the same page.
Thank you!
IHB Team
FAQ:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Ea4TH65gMbH9lv7PVcTubi5bz7GQeUL05cd43Nds68g/edit?usp=drivesdk***
If you have additional questions, please direct them to Scottie via private message.
### Registration Timeline
- April 1–12: Invitations sent for overnight camping
- April 13–May 1: RSVPs open for day hikers
- If camping spots remain, additional invitations will be sent
Please keep an eye on your Meetup inbox for invitations and the event page for updates.
***
### Learn More About the Grand Slam Challenge
- https://www.idahoaclimbingguide.com/grand-slam-peaks/
- https://www.idahostatesman.com/outdoors/hiking/article274530626.html
***
## Itinerary
### Day 1 (May 2)
- Meet at 7:30 AM at Albertsons on Federal Way
- Brief orientation and Q&A
- Carpool to Kepros (limited trailhead parking)
Peak #1: Kepros
- 9.4 miles | 1,978 ft elevation gain
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/idaho/kepros-mountain-trail
Return to Albertsons
- Lunch (~30 minutes) at Subway or bring your own
Peak #2: Lucky Peak (Shaw Mountain) via Adelmann Mine
- 8.4 miles | 2,350 ft elevation gain
https://hikingboise.com/2023/07/11/lucky-peak-via-adelmann-mine-trail/
Day 1 Total:
- 17.8 miles | 4,328 ft elevation gain
Overnight: Irish Point dispersed camping
- Free camping (limited capacity)
- Only confirmed campers
Bring for camp:
- Car camping gear
- Dinner + stove
- Cooler with non-alcoholic drinks to share
- Swimwear (optional reservoir dip)
***
### Day 2
- Wake up at 7:00 AM
- Ready to hike by 8:00 AM
Peak #3: Mt. Heinen
- 9.3 miles | 3,690 ft elevation gain
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/idaho/mount-heinen
Peak #4: Cervidae Peak
- 4.5 miles | 1,932 ft elevation gain
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/idaho/cervidae-peak
Day 2 Total:
- 13.8 miles | 5,622 ft elevation gain
- AWARDS CEREMONY at Warehouse Food Hall. 630pm-730pm. We be having a celebratory dinner where the organizers will present certificates to those who finish the Grand Slam Challenge. All are welcome. No reservation needed.
***
### Grand Total
- 31.6 miles | ~9,950 ft elevation gain
***
## What to Bring (Hiking Essentials)
- Backpack
- Rain jacket
- Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
- 2 liters of water per hike (plus extra in your car)
- Electrolytes (drinks, chews, or gels)
- Snacks
- First aid kit (including blister care)
- Positive and flexible attitude
Camping (if applicable):
- Tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad
***
## History of the Grand Slam Challenge
The Boise Grand Slam was created by Tom Lopez, author of several hiking and backpacking guidebooks. Similar regional challenges include:
- Washington’s Grand Slam: Mailbox Peak, Mt. Si, Mt. Teneriffe
- Oregon’s “DDD”: Mount Defiance, Devil’s Rest, Dog Mountain
***
DONATIONS:
We would love to have donations for things like banners, stickers, camp awnings, nice paper for certifications, etc.
You can donate via pledge on the our Meet Up page or via Venmo:
https://www.venmo.com/u/Idahohikersandbackpackers## Policies & Expectations
- No alcohol or illegal drugs
- No firearms or weapons
- Practice Leave No Trace principles
- You may turn around at any time, but you are responsible for your own transportation
This is a participant-led event. We are facilitators—not guides. Please come prepared to contribute to a safe and successful outing.
If you cancel, notify organizers as soon as possible. No-shows or lack of communication impact the group and future participation eligibility.
If you are feeling unwell, please stay home—we’ll hike together another time.I understand that during my participation in this Outing, I may be exposed to risks and hazards, foreseen or unforeseen, which are inherent and cannot be eliminated without diminishing the Outing.
These inherent risks include, but are not limited to, the dangers of serious personal injury, property damage, and death (“Injuries and Damages”) from exposure to the hazards of travel, location, and weather.
I agree that the Organizer (s) has not tried to contradict or minimize my understanding of these risks. I know that Injuries and Damages can occur by natural causes or activities of other persons, animals, trip members, trip leaders or third parties, either as a result of negligence or because of other reasons. I understand that risks of such Injuries are involved in adventure travel such as this Outing and I accept that I must exercise extra care for my own person and for others around me in the face of such hazards.
I understand that on this Outing there may not be rescue or medical facilities or expertise necessary to deal with the Injuries to which I may be exposed.
To the fullest extent allowed by law, I agree to WAIVE, DISCHARGE CLAIMS, AND RELEASE FROM LIABILITY the Organizer from any and all liability on account of, or in any way resulting from Injuries and Damages, even if caused by the negligence of the Organizer or other participants in any way connected with this Outing. I further agree to HOLD HARMLESS the Organizer (s) from any claims, losses, Injuries and Damages caused by my own negligence while a participant on the Outing.
I understand and intend that this assumption of risk and release is binding upon my heirs, executors, administrators and assigns. I have read the Outing description and this Release of Liability in its entirety and I freely and voluntarily assume all risks of such Injuries and notwithstanding such risks, I agree to participate in the Outing. I have read, I understand, and I agree to this Release of Liability.####
11 attendees
Kepros Mountain Day Hike - Grand Slam Weekend
Albertsons 6560 S. Federal WAY Boise, Idaho, 6560 S Federal Way, Boise, ID, USJoin in the first leg of the Idaho Hikers and Backpackers Grand Slam Weekend on Kepros Mountain!
If there is one hike to do this weekend, Kepros is the one. Kepros is a moderate hike of 9.5 miles, with 1978 ft of elevation gain. It's never very steep (except for the steep one part you can see from the parking area...trust me, it's not all like that). From the summit you can look down on Lucky Peak (the reservoir) from far above.
If you are feeling strong after the Kepros hike, you are welcome to continue on to summit Lucky Peak as well.
Note: you do not need to sign up for this event if you are already signed up for the either the Saturday or Full Weekend events. We just want those who can only join for one hike know they are welcome.
We will meet near the Subway in the Albertson's parking lot on Federal Way & Hwy 21 so we can carpool to the trailhead. Parking is good, but somewhat limited. This will be the meeting point for all the Grand Slammers on Saturday ... the Kepros-only group, the all-day-Saturday group and those of us attempting the complete Grand Slam. It should be a great time.
Learn More: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/idaho/kepros-mountain-trail
Grand Slam Event FAQ:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Ea4TH65gMbH9lv7PVcTubi5bz7GQeUL05cd43Nds68g/edit?usp=drivesdkIf you are interested in the overnight campout, add your name the wait list here and we will contact you if a spot opens up: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1p8gybACO1QJ8OlBIp3JdcH9qzvgw4YQrj1BS2c9Az9U/edit?usp=drivesdk
## 🎉 Awards Celebration
Warehouse Food Hall | 6:30–7:30 PM
Join us for a casual celebration! Organizers will present certificates to those who complete the Grand Slam. All are welcome—no reservation needed.
***
## 📊 Grand Total (All Peaks)
31.6 miles | ~9,950 ft elevation gain
***
## 🎒 What to Bring (Essentials)- Backpack
- Rain jacket
- Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
- At least 2L water per hike (+ extra in your car)
- Electrolytes (drinks, chews, or gels)
- Snacks
- First aid kit (including blister care)
- Positive, flexible attitude
***
## 🏔️ History of the Grand Slam
The Boise Grand Slam was created by Tom Lopez, author of several hiking and backpacking guidebooks. Similar regional challenges include:- Washington: Mailbox Peak, Mt. Si, Mt. Teneriffe
- Oregon “DDD”: Mount Defiance, Devil’s Rest, Dog Mountain
***
## 💛 Donations
We appreciate support for event materials (banners, stickers, certificates, etc.).
Donate via Meetup pledge or Venmo:
https://www.venmo.com/u/Idahohikersandbackpackers
***
## ⚠️ Policies & Expectations- No alcohol or illegal drugs
- No firearms or weapons
- Follow Leave No Trace principles
- You may turn around at any time, but you are responsible for your own transportation
- This is a participant-led event—we are facilitators, not guides
- Be prepared to contribute to a safe group experience
If you cancel, please notify organizers ASAP. No-shows impact the group and future participation.
If you’re feeling unwell, please stay home—we’ll hike together another time.
***
## RELEASE OF LIABILITY:
I understand that during my participation in this Outing, I may be exposed to risks and hazards, foreseen or unforeseen, which are inherent and cannot be eliminated without diminishing the Outing.
These inherent risks include, but are not limited to, the dangers of serious personal injury, property damage, and death (“Injuries and Damages”) from exposure to the hazards of travel, location, and weather.
I agree that the Organizer (s) has not tried to contradict or minimize my understanding of these risks. I know that Injuries and Damages can occur by natural causes or activities of other persons, animals, trip members, trip leaders or third parties, either as a result of negligence or because of other reasons. I understand that risks of such Injuries are involved in adventure travel such as this Outing and I accept that I must exercise extra care for my own person and for others around me in the face of such hazards.
I understand that on this Outing there may not be rescue or medical facilities or expertise necessary to deal with the Injuries to which I may be exposed.
To the fullest extent allowed by law, I agree to WAIVE, DISCHARGE CLAIMS, AND RELEASE FROM LIABILITY the Organizer from any and all liability on account of, or in any way resulting from Injuries and Damages, even if caused by the negligence of the Organizer or other participants in any way connected with this Outing. I further agree to HOLD HARMLESS the Organizer (s) from any claims, losses, Injuries and Damages caused by my own negligence while a participant on the Outing.
I understand and intend that this assumption of risk and release is binding upon my heirs, executors, administrators and assigns. I have read the Outing description and this Release of Liability in its entirety and I freely and voluntarily assume all risks of such Injuries and notwithstanding such risks, I agree to participate in the Outing. I have read, I understand, and I agree to this Release of Liability.2 attendees
Mt. Heinen Day Hike - Grand Slam Weekend
Albertsons 6560 S. Federal WAY Boise, Idaho, 6560 S Federal Way, Boise, ID, USJoin in the third leg of the Idaho Hikers and Backpackers Grand Slam Weekend on Mt Heinen.
Day 2 of Grand Slam weekend kicks off with Mt. Heinen. Join the group for a challenging hike of 9.6 miles and 3717 feet of elevation gain. Since this is an out-and-back hike, you will see most of that gain in the first half of the hike, so it may be the toughest 4.6 miles of the year (so far). It won't be an easy hike, but if you arrive fresh you might be able to leave Scottie in the dust.
If you are still feeling strong after summiting Heinen, stick around for Cervidae. It's right down the road anyway. And it's short, right? ;)
Note: you do not need to sign up for this event if you are already signed up for the either the Saturday or Full Weekend events. We just want those who can only join for one hike know they are welcome.
We will meet at the trailhead for Mt. Heinen along the shore of Lucky Peak Reservoir. Some of the group will already be camping in the area, so please give yourself plenty of time to make your way up the winding dirt road to the trailhead.
Note: The group members are camping near the trailhead at the Irish Point dispersed camping area. Keep your eyes open for the group among the campers if you arrive early, but please meet at the trailhead for the hike.
Learn More: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/idaho/mount-heinen
Grand Slam Event FAQ:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Ea4TH65gMbH9lv7PVcTubi5bz7GQeUL05cd43Nds68g/edit?usp=drivesdk## 🎉 Awards Celebration
Warehouse Food Hall | 6:30–7:30 PM
Join us for a casual celebration! Organizers will present certificates to those who complete the Grand Slam. All are welcome—no reservation needed.
***
## 📊 Grand Total (All Peaks)
31.6 miles | ~9,950 ft elevation gain
***
## 🎒 What to Bring (Essentials)- Backpack
- Rain jacket
- Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
- At least 2L water per hike (+ extra in your car)
- Electrolytes (drinks, chews, or gels)
- Snacks
- First aid kit (including blister care)
- Positive, flexible attitude
***
## 🏔️ History of the Grand Slam
The Boise Grand Slam was created by Tom Lopez, author of several hiking and backpacking guidebooks. Similar regional challenges include:- Washington: Mailbox Peak, Mt. Si, Mt. Teneriffe
- Oregon “DDD”: Mount Defiance, Devil’s Rest, Dog Mountain
***
## 💛 Donations
We appreciate support for event materials (banners, stickers, certificates, etc.).
Donate via Meetup pledge or Venmo:
https://www.venmo.com/u/Idahohikersandbackpackers
***
## ⚠️ Policies & Expectations- No alcohol or illegal drugs
- No firearms or weapons
- Follow Leave No Trace principles
- You may turn around at any time, but you are responsible for your own transportation
- This is a participant-led event—we are facilitators, not guides
- Be prepared to contribute to a safe group experience
If you cancel, please notify organizers ASAP. No-shows impact the group and future participation.
If you’re feeling unwell, please stay home—we’ll hike together another time.
***
## RELEASE OF LIABILITY:
I understand that during my participation in this Outing, I may be exposed to risks and hazards, foreseen or unforeseen, which are inherent and cannot be eliminated without diminishing the Outing.
These inherent risks include, but are not limited to, the dangers of serious personal injury, property damage, and death (“Injuries and Damages”) from exposure to the hazards of travel, location, and weather.
I agree that the Organizer (s) has not tried to contradict or minimize my understanding of these risks. I know that Injuries and Damages can occur by natural causes or activities of other persons, animals, trip members, trip leaders or third parties, either as a result of negligence or because of other reasons. I understand that risks of such Injuries are involved in adventure travel such as this Outing and I accept that I must exercise extra care for my own person and for others around me in the face of such hazards.
I understand that on this Outing there may not be rescue or medical facilities or expertise necessary to deal with the Injuries to which I may be exposed.
To the fullest extent allowed by law, I agree to WAIVE, DISCHARGE CLAIMS, AND RELEASE FROM LIABILITY the Organizer from any and all liability on account of, or in any way resulting from Injuries and Damages, even if caused by the negligence of the Organizer or other participants in any way connected with this Outing. I further agree to HOLD HARMLESS the Organizer (s) from any claims, losses, Injuries and Damages caused by my own negligence while a participant on the Outing.
I understand and intend that this assumption of risk and release is binding upon my heirs, executors, administrators and assigns. I have read the Outing description and this Release of Liability in its entirety and I freely and voluntarily assume all risks of such Injuries and notwithstanding such risks, I agree to participate in the Outing. I have read, I understand, and I agree to this Release of Liability.2 attendees
Past events
66


