If you are like us and love to spend your days outdoors exploring Idaho’s mountains, we want to issue you a challenge: the Grand Slam Challenge. This is a well-known hiking challenge in Idaho where you summit four different peaks that are within a short drive from Boise: Cervidae, Kepros, Shaw, and Heinen. This is definitely one challenge that will require stamina, preparation, and mental strength, but once you conquer each trail, you will be on top of the world!
You’ll want to prepare yourself for the Kepros Mountain Trail. This is a 9.4-mile out-and-back trail and the entire route is quite challenging. You will climb nearly 2,000 feet in elevation, so rest and recovery are necessary to reach the top. The path can also be quite rocky and loose, so poles are recommended. However, once you’ve reached the end of the trail, you’ll realize that every step was worth it — the scenery at the top is unforgettable.
Mount Heinen is another 9.5-mile out-and-back trail to conquer in the Grand Slam Challenge. This is one of the steepest of the four as you will climb more than 3,700 feet in elevation! Lots of water, hiking poles, and plenty of breaks are recommended when you tackle this trail. Fortunately, there will be incredible scenery, wildflowers, and trees to distract you as you climb.
Shaw Mountain is the easiest of the four trails. However, even though this trail is much easier, it is the longest of the trails at just over 10 miles out and back. Because of the moderately-challenging terrain and the proximity to the town, this is also one of the more popular trails. Don’t be surprised if you see other hikers and mountain bikers as you climb.
So, what do you think? Do you have what it takes to complete the Grand Slam Challenge in Idaho or have you completed it in the past? Let us know in the comments!
If these hikes seem a little too long and strenuous and you are searching for something a little easier, check out these amazing Idaho hikes that are each under 3 miles.
Address: Cervidae Peak, Boise, ID 83716, USA
Address: Shaw Mountain, Idaho 83712, USA
Address: Kepros Mountain, Idaho 83716, USA
Address: Mount Heinen Trailhead, Boise, ID 83716, USA
