Length: 8.1 miles Off-Road: 8.1 miles Climb: 1,990 feet Trail Uses: Hiking, Biking Aerobic: Technical: Scenic: Rating Definitions

Description: Lava Mountain (7,882 feet) is located east of Boise in the Boise National Forest. The climb to the top is moderate along a well defined trail.

During the first two and a half miles, the trail climbs 3/4 (1,500 feet) of its total elevation gain. This portion of the trial meanders up the hillside through a series of switch backs, and occasional steep climbs.

Much of the lower portion of the trail is flanked by dense undergrowth. Hikers will find the trail easy to follow, while mountain bikers may find it more difficult travel.

At the top of the climb the trail intersects another trail that follows the ridge line. Turning left (northeast) will take you towards Lava Mountain, and points beyond. Turning right will descend back towards Long Gulch Road.

The entire trial is open to motorcycles, however the wider upper portion of the trail seems to receive more use. Don't be surprised to see bikers on the trail.

The trail passes through high meadows and gains about 400 feet before skirting to the southeast side of Lava Mountain's summit. Due to the high altitude in this section, portions of the trail may have snow on them in early Spring, but not enough to prevent easy passage.

To reach the summit, leave the main trail as it begins to gradually descend. Lava Mountain's summit has many exposed granite rocks on top and can be seen form the trail. The last few hundred feet is up the steep hillside without a trail.

Along the trail and from the summit, good views of the surrounding mountains and valleys can be had. Most impressive are the views back towards Long Gulch from the trail.
 

Location: Lava Mountain is located 32 miles due east of Boise in the Boise National Forest. Because of the poor roads in the area - both winding and unpaved - the drive from Boise takes approximately 2 hours.

From Boise or I-84 take Highway 21 east from town. It can be reached by taking Warm Springs Avenue towards Lucky Peak Dam, or off I-84 just east of town.

Follow Highway 21 past Lucky Peak Dam. Immediately after crossing Mores Creek Bridge (the first large bridge after the dam) turn right onto Forest Road 268 following the sign toward Atlanta. The road traces the banks of Lucky Peak Reservoir and Arrowrock Reservoir. Turn right on to Long Gulch Road (F.R. 113) at the first bridge after Arrowrock Dam.

Long Gulch Road crosses the Boise River, climbs a ridge, and then heads southeast. Follow the road for about 12 miles, and turn right at the third intersection on the right, Forest Road 222. The first two will be F.R. 218 and F.R. 217, respectively. Each intersection is marked. Follow Forest Road 222 until it ends. Park at the end of the road near the marked trailhead, but do not block the gate leading to the fire road.