The Kelly Mountain Trail climbs the slopes of Kelly Mountain in the Kelly Canyon area near Ririe, Idaho — a popular local recreation spot in the foothills east of Idaho Falls, best known for its small ski resort and its web of trails. This route switchbacks up the mountain to a summit that rewards the effort with sweeping views in every direction across the surrounding hills, forests, and the South Fork Snake River country below.

It's a moderate, mostly uphill trail of roughly 3 miles, gaining somewhere around 900 feet as it climbs through a diverse and pretty landscape — lush forest, wildflower meadows, and creekside stretches that make for good birdwatching and the occasional wildlife sighting. A couple of short, steeper “red-line” pitches get the heart pumping before the grade eases near the top. It's used by hikers, mountain bikers, and others depending on the season, and dogs are welcome on a leash.

An important note on trail status. Much of the Kelly Canyon trail network sits on U.S. Forest Service land, and not all of these routes are officially designated or sanctioned for every use. In particular, the status of mountain biking on some of this ground has been contested — riders have reported enforcement and the risk of steep fines — so if you plan to bike, check the current official trail designations and any posted signage before you ride rather than assuming access. For hikers on foot the situation is generally more straightforward, but it's always wise to confirm current conditions.

The area shines in summer and early fall, roughly June through September, when the wildflowers are out and the high country is dry; the same slopes turn into ski runs once the snow flies. Mornings are cooler and quieter, and the light on the surrounding hills is especially pretty early and late in the day.

The broader Kelly Canyon area is a genuine four-season playground. In winter the little Kelly Canyon Resort runs its lifts for skiing and tubing, and in the warmer months the surrounding hills draw hikers, riders, and ATV users onto a sprawling network of routes. That popularity is part of why the land-use questions matter here — a lot of people share this ground — so a little courtesy and a little homework go a long way toward keeping everyone welcome.

Come prepared for a foothills climb: bring plenty of water (there's little shade on the exposed upper switchbacks), sun protection, and sturdy footwear, and watch for afternoon heat in midsummer. Keep dogs leashed and under control, yield appropriately on shared sections, and pack out everything you bring. For a quick, rewarding leg-burner with big views close to Idaho Falls, Kelly Mountain is a longtime local favorite — just do your homework on current trail rules before you go.