These two geological landmarks located near the Old Idaho Penitentiary are steeped in history and beauty. Native Americans consider this area sacred. Native plant populations are found clinging to the slopes around Table Rock, providing a glimpse of what the entire Boise Front may have looked like at one time. Old quarry roads and the Table Rock tram route are now used as trails that provide a wide range of experiences and trail difficulties. The views aren’t half bad either.

Table Rock Trail #15
Climbing 900' in 1.6 miles is the main route to the top of Table Rock. There’s a good chance of seeing fox, raptors and deer in between gasping for air. When combined with Table Rock Loop Trail # 16, this makes for a fine walk and exposes the traveler to native plant populations that have escaped the hand of man and fire. Please help reduce erosion and scars to the hill by staying only on the marked trails. Using the steep hill climb routes kills the grass that holds the soil in place.

Rock Island Trail #16B
The Rock Island Trail is a technical, expert level mountain bike path winding around and over numerous low rock formations in the Rock Garden area below Table Rock. The trail is .81 miles long, and relatively flat, though very challenging. For those not wishing to ride over the rock obstacles, paths around each one are provided as well.

Table Rock Quarry Trail #17
Combine this trail with trails 14 and 16 to create another loop alternative. Native plant populations and great views will treat the traveler.

Tram Trail #14
When hauling large boulders from the quarry, workers would load railroad cars and lower it down a track, the remnants of which is the base for the Tram Trail. Take care going down this trail as it is quite steep. For that reason we have designated this a Pedestrian Only trail. Imagine hauling large sandstone boulders down this steep grade.

Quarry Trail #18, Castle Rock Loop #19
Further evidence of quarry activity is found along this trail that sports fine views of the East End. During its active times, the Old Pen provided a source of "cheap" labor to quarry sandstone from the cliffs around you which were then used to construct many of early Boise’s buildings. Geothermal water percolates toward the surface here, providing an efficient energy source for the Warm Springs Historic District. This same hot water was a drawing card for Native American activity, many who still consider the area sacred ground. Please limit your impact to the area by staying on the marked trails and avoiding the steep hill climbs.

Trailhead Parking:

• The trails in this area are best located from the Old Penitentiary parking area located at the end of the N. Penitentiary Road, or from the Warm Springs Golf Course parking area located at 2495 Warm Springs Avenue. Please use caution when crossing Warm Springs Road from the golf course to the trails.

Other Trails Shown on Map
Old Pen Trail #15A
Rock Garden Trail #16A

Also see the Castle Rock, Table Rock and Table Rock Quarry Trail panoramic scenes as part of the Panoramic Journey.