While the masses flock to the Boise foothills, Sawtooths, and other outdoorsy hotspots within a stone’s throw of the capital, savvy Idahoans know that there’s a deliciously diverse world of trails, summits, secret hideaways, and gorgeous views beyond our state’s growing metro. And today, we’re stoked to show off a particularly special hidden gem, tucked away in a surprisingly overlooked hiking mecca!
Southeast Idaho is known by many as the place to be when autumn colors come alive, but few people realize that the impressive geology that makes up Yellowstone just over the border spills over into Idaho as well, making this region fabulous year-round! But despite this incredible natural beauty, our easterly region is a quiet, untouched paradise just waiting to be experienced up close and personal. Red Butte Trail, nestled in the Big Hole Mountains, is one of our favorite treks to date. The trail gently climbs through vibrant meadows and dense forest paths to a stunning overlook high above the landscape. And the best part? It’s doable for all ages! Check it out:
Towering over the tiny towns of Ririe and Poplar in southeast Idaho, the Big Hole Mountains are impressive in their rocky, craggy glory.
Taylor Heery/Unsplash Rexburg is just a short drive away from everything that these peaks have to offer!
A short and sweet trail meanders through the Caribou-Targhee National Forest up these mountains to a butte that offers sweeping views all the way into Wyoming.
McKenna Neff/AllTrails Wyoming’s Temple Peak stands out notably in the distance.
At nearly seven miles one way, this hike is definitely on the longer end of our usual “easy” trails…
L. Toshio Kishiyama/Getty
But the diverse beauty of the gentle elevation gain makes the distance hardly noticeable.
McKenna Neff/AllTrails In fact, up until the last few hundred feet, the trail to Red Butte is doable for all ages. But full disclosure: the last climb will add some major challenge to the leisurely stroll.
This all-seasons trail is one you can revisit time and time again.
Pete Gardner/AllTrails Your hike begins off of Road 226. The signs and clear trail make this path easy to follow.
The thick trees offer ample shade in the summer.
Pete Gardne/AllTrails The quiet company of the creek nearby is also a refreshing place to dip your toes.
The sweet meadows also come alive with colorful wildflowers in spring.
heirofvaliant/Pixabay
Autumn might just be our favorite time to visit, though! The whole journey is awash with golds and oranges as the landscape bursts into fall foliage mode.
McKenna Neff/AllTrails The aspens and cottonwoods positively glow here, fed by the mild climate and elevation. This is definitely one of the best fall hikes you can take in southeast Idaho
But even in winter the views of the surrounding peaks are nothing short of spectacular.
Karlie Pingree/AllTrails
Karlie Pingree/AllTrails Absolutely gorgeous.
The challenging push up the butte itself is the only section of the trail that leans on the moderate to difficult side.
Pete Gardner/AllTrails But keep going - it’ll be worth it!
This trail is a shared-use trail. To find respite and quiet from any ATV or snowmobile traffic, follow the left fork when the trail branches near the summit.
leah jones/AllTrails However you choose to ascend, please be conscientious of those sharing the trail with you. And keep eyes and ears open for wildlife!
Finally, hikers are treated to some of the most incredible panoramic views that this slice of Idaho has to offer. Tree-lined peaks spill out into the distance, making this a perfect spot to catch sunset glimpses to the west.
James Park/AllTrails A small summit cairn will confirm that you’ve arrived.
Take extra time to enjoy the views before heading back down. This is a surprisingly overlooked hiking gem that precious few have experienced firsthand!
James Park/AllTrails
Get full directions to this Red Butte hike here.
Taylor Heery/Unsplash
Rexburg is just a short drive away from everything that these peaks have to offer!
McKenna Neff/AllTrails
Wyoming’s Temple Peak stands out notably in the distance.
L. Toshio Kishiyama/Getty
In fact, up until the last few hundred feet, the trail to Red Butte is doable for all ages. But full disclosure: the last climb will add some major challenge to the leisurely stroll.
Pete Gardner/AllTrails
Your hike begins off of Road 226. The signs and clear trail make this path easy to follow.
Pete Gardne/AllTrails
The quiet company of the creek nearby is also a refreshing place to dip your toes.
heirofvaliant/Pixabay
The aspens and cottonwoods positively glow here, fed by the mild climate and elevation. This is definitely one of the best fall hikes you can take in southeast Idaho
Karlie Pingree/AllTrails
Absolutely gorgeous.
But keep going - it’ll be worth it!
leah jones/AllTrails
However you choose to ascend, please be conscientious of those sharing the trail with you. And keep eyes and ears open for wildlife!
James Park/AllTrails
A small summit cairn will confirm that you’ve arrived.
We love stumbling upon Idaho’s overlooked gems! If you’ve ever hiked or ridden to Red Butte, share your photos and stories with us on Facebook or Instagram. Or, if you’re looking for more easy trails to explore this season, check out our post here.
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Address: Red Butte, Idaho, USA
