Level I Backpacking Training Hike with John: Boise Foothills
Details
Join us for a level 1 backpack training hike.
### What is a training hike?
A training hike is a purposeful outing designed to prepare you for backpacking. These hikes help you safely build endurance, strength, and confidence on the trail while getting used to hiking with a pack.
For each training hike, we may increase one or two key variables:
- Distance (measured round trip)
- Elevation gain
- Pack weight
Level I hikes are designed to be accessible and supportive, making them a great starting point if you’re new to backpacking or getting back into hiking shape.
- Training hikes will approximately match Idaho Hikers and Backpackers backpacking physical ability and difficulty levels.
### What to expect:
- Beginner-friendly pace: Focused on learning and consistency rather than speed
- Foundational skills: Learn basics like pacing, hydration, and pack setup
- Light progression: Gradual increases in distance, elevation, and pack weight over time
- Gear practice: Use what you have—no need for a full setup yet
You’ll also learn and practice at least one basic safety skill and one backpacking skill during the hike.
These are not just casual walks—they’re designed to help you build a strong foundation for future backpacking trips.
For this training hike:
- Please pack your backpack with -15 of your body weight. Shoot for about 20- 25 lbs. If you don't have all the backpacking gear, you can use water bottles, rice bags, books, etc.
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### Hike Details:
- Distance: 4.8 miles (round trip)
- Elevation Gain: 616 feet
- Pace: ~1.5–2.0 mph
- Breaks: Short breaks as needed
### Recommended Gear:
- Backpack
- Comfortable hiking shoes or boots
- Water and snacks
- Trekking poles (optional)
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### Logistics:
- Meet Time: 8:00 AM at the trailhead
- Departure: 8:15 AM sharp
Please arrive on time and ready to go.
Note: All participants must sign a release form prior to starting the hike.
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4/4/26
0800
Upper Military reserve loop trailhead.
Plenty of parking along north mountain cove road just past the Fort Boise Military Cemetery on the right side of the road.
Also called Mountain Cove Loop parking lot.
Please see the Pin on alltrails map for details.
Upper Military Reserve Loop on AllTrails
**https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/idaho/upper-military-reserve?p=-1&sh=buinpm&utm_medium=trail_share&utm_source=alltrails_virality**