Grape Mountain

Overview

Grape Mountain is relatively close to Boise, yet seldom visited. It does have a road to the summit, but the road is gated. The surrounding terrain lends itself to cross-country hiking, so the road is optional.
Although Grape is close to Boise, it does take a long time to drive there. It is right across the water from the standard route on Mt. Heinen, so you can see Grape Mountain long before you start the climb. If you have a canoe, you could cut off almost an hour of driving. But add about 500' of gain. 

From Boise, take Highway 21 toward Idaho City. After the Mores Creek Bridge, take an immediate right turn on a good paved road and head for Spring Shores and Arrowrock Dam. After the dam, the road becomes one lane, bumpy, and very twisty along the reservoir. Once past the reservoir, you will drive along the beautiful Middle Fork of the Boise River. Cross the river on the Rattlesnake Bridge (the first opportunity to cross) and follow the (better) dirt road up Slide Gulch for about 5.25 miles over the pass and down into the Elk Meadows flats. Take a right on the obvious dirt road heading toward your objective and follow the drainage to the gate at the saddle, about a mile. Getting There

None. Red Tape

There are several campgrounds along Arrowrock Reservoir and the Middle Fork, or you can stay at the tiny Twin Springs Resort (see links). YOu could also do some "dispersed camping" at many spots along the way, including at the parking spot.[img:530766:alignright:small:Make a loop: head down the north ridge]Camping