Overview
Bald Mountain sits above the Crooked River drainage in the northern Boise National Forest, one of several named peaks that offer genuine summit perspectives within reasonable driving distance of the Treasure Valley. The 6-mile round-trip via Crooked River is a compact, rewarding route that gains 1,800 feet in 3 miles, most of it in the upper half of the trail.
The lower section follows Crooked River, a clear stream that drains a remote corner of the Boise National Forest before joining larger drainages to the south. The creek-side walking is pleasant and shaded, a contrast to the open terrain above treeline that defines the upper approach and the summit itself.
Bald Mountain's open summit is the reward. The treeless top provides unobstructed views of the Sawtooth Range visible to the northeast, the rolling Boise Mountain terrain in every other direction, and the canyon systems that characterize the middle elevations of this forest. On clear mornings the views extend to distant peaks and ridges that represent days of additional hiking.
This route sees less traffic than the more popular Sawtooth-facing trails from Grandjean, which means trailhead parking is rarely a problem and the trail itself is quiet even on summer weekends. For Boise residents who make regular trips to the northern forest, Bald Mountain via Crooked River is a reliable option that delivers quality scenery without fighting for a parking spot.
Check conditions before your visit, particularly for fire restrictions and road status on the Grandjean Road.
The Route
Miles 0 to 2.5: Crooked River Corridor
The trail starts at the Crooked River Trailhead (approximately 5,900 feet) and immediately drops to the creek level, following the stream northeast through lodgepole pine and Douglas fir forest. The creek is clear and cold, fed by the drainage above. The gradient is gentle in this section, providing an easy beginning before the main climbing begins.
Several informal creek crossings occur in the lower section. In early season (June, early July), these may require some footwork to keep feet dry; by August they are typically easy rock-hops. Wildflowers line the banks in early season.
At approximately mile 2.5, the trail leaves the creek and begins climbing directly up the slope toward the summit. A trail sign marks the junction where the route turns uphill.
Miles 2.5 to 3.0: Summit Push
The final half-mile climbs steeply through open terrain. Whitebark pine and subalpine fir give way to open rocky ground as the summit approaches. The trail is marked by cairns in the upper section. The gradient is the steepest on the route here, but the short distance makes it manageable with a steady pace.
The summit (approximately 7,700 feet) is wide and flat by mountain standards, with enough room to spread out and enjoy the views without feeling exposed on a knife-edge.
When to Visit
June through October. The lower creek trail may be accessible from late May, but the upper approach and summit often hold snow into early June. July through September offers the most reliable conditions. October brings cooler temperatures and reduced crowds.
Plan to be off the summit by early afternoon given Idaho's summer thunderstorm patterns.
What to Bring
Many hikers on this trail carry:
- 2 liters of water capacity; the creek provides sources in the lower section, but the upper trail is dry
- A water filter for the creek
- Wind and rain layers for the exposed summit
- Trekking poles for the steep upper section
- Sun protection for the open summit terrain
Individual needs vary based on conditions and fitness.
Practical Details
No permit required as of 2026. No trailhead facilities. Cell service is absent. Dispersed camping is permitted in the forest. Dogs are allowed on leash.
Leave No Trace principles apply throughout, including proper food storage for overnight visitors.
Getting There
From Boise, drive north on Highway 21 (Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway) approximately 80 miles through Idaho City and Lowman to the Grandjean Road junction. Follow Grandjean Road approximately 8 miles toward Grandjean. The Crooked River Trailhead is signed before the main Grandjean community. Total drive from Boise is approximately 2 hours.