There’s Nothing Fake About Riding Ski Area Roads at the Bogus Basin Hill Ride

If you’re a recreational or amateur skier and a winter sports enthusiast, then ski areas are a real treat. There appear to be many of them around the United States, Europe, and probably other places in the world.

During the spring and summer months, long after the lodges have closed for the season and skiers have gone home, these areas become abandoned and isolated. Roads leading to the ski areas are transformed into quiet havens for cyclists and cycling events with little to no traffic. In Boise, Idaho, one such event is the Bogus Basin Hill Climb.

What is Bogus Basin and Why the Funny Name?

In the 19th century amidst the frenzy of the gold rush, corrupt gold miners in this Idaho basin concocted fake (or bogus) gold dust by heating lead fillings and mixing it with real gold dust. They were called “spelterers.” And that is how the area 10 miles outside Boise became known as “Bogus Basin.”

In 1939, Bogus Basin was designated as a ski area. In 1942, it opened to the general public. The basin’s elevation ticks up to over 7,000 feet and can receive 200 to 250 inches of snow in the winter months. However, since 2011, that amount has dwindled considerably.

The Ride Up Bogus Basin Road

The basin is accessed via Bogus Basin Road. It twists and turns for 16 miles 172 times with a gain in elevation of 3,400 feet. The road terminates at Pioneer Lodge.

Registration is open now for the ride which takes place on June 30, 2024. The Bogus Basin Hill Climb is part of the Suarez Gran Fondo National Series, so points are available to riders who participate in this event.

For men and women 23 and older, registration is $50.00. For those 18 and under, the fee drops to $35.00. The total length of the ride is 18 miles.

Last Thoughts

The Bogus Basin Hill Climb definitely sounds like a cool event in a place with a unique history. If you’ve never been to Idaho and you’re passing through the area or if you’re local to Boise, then this ride might be an excuse to get there.

While this ride is only 18 miles in length, keep in mind it climbs 3,400 feet and the area is used for skiing. So, it’s safe to assume that it is probably challenging. So go ahead and sign up and get your climbing miles in, this looks like a fun one.