Possible changes to iconic Boise landmark

CREATED 9:36 PM

The giant hill in Camels Back Park has been a hot spot for outdoor lovers in Boise for generations.The iconic area in the North End is the gateway to the foothills, and could soon be getting a facelift.

Ridge to Rivers trail experts, city engineers and landscape architects have developed a proposal that would convert the top third of the steep trail into stone steps and landscaping with native plants.

"They do a lot of maintenance and a lot of it makes sense, park regular Fred Roe said. Once there starts to be erosion it can really take off, so it's good to stem it before it gets worse."

Other trail regulars dont seem to mind the changes either.

"I think it serves the purpose that people use the hill for well- to climb to the top," Roe said.

"Looks like the proposal is going to be pretty beautiful, Daniel Walsh said. I'd still use the stairs and probably still get as good of exercise."

Some say if they cant stop Mother Nature from running its toll, they'll just have to fix what they can to keep the landmark around for generations to come.

"You know, sometimes I wish it could stay the same, but the reality is it doesnt, Roe said. So if it's going to change on its own, and we want to keep it, we need to maintain it."

The plan is still in its beginning stages and is estimated to cost $70,000. The city is seeking a grant from the State of Idahos Non-motorized Recreational Trails Program to help fund the project in 2014.

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Possible changes to iconic Boise landmark