How to Float the Boise River

One of Boise’s signature attractions is the Boise River, a 102-mile long tributary of the Snake River stemming from the Sawtooth Range to the Snake River Plain. It meanders right through the middle of the city, and is flanked by paved pathways for both pedestrians and cyclists. This Boise icon provides a variety of recreational activities for locals and visitors alike, from fly fishing, bird watching, and floating/rafting/kayaking. Floating season officially begins in June, when water levels are lower after the Spring runoff.   Where to Start: The put-in for the infamous Boise River float starts at Barber Park, located in SE Boise off of Eckert Road (about 6 miles from downtown). Parking is available at the park itself, but is limited and costs $7/day. We recommend parking at the take-out point at Ann Morrison Park and taking the shuttle ($3/ride) to Barber Park to start. You can park at Barber Park, and take the shuttle back from Ann Morrison Park. The shuttle runs during operational hours for the park (9:30 am - 7:30 pm). More information about rentals can be found here. What to Bring: Safety takes priority when selecting the right equipment to float the river. Folks can rent equipment right at Barber Park or bring it pre-inflated from home (air stations are no longer available at the park). Approved vessels include tubes, inflatable and hard-shell rafts and kayaks, and canoes. Air mattresses or pool floaties are not permitted per code. Sound-producing device (i.e. a whistle, bell, or horn) for emergency use Sunscreen (and bring plenty!) Water Waterproof case to store personal items Appropriate clothing for water activities including water shoes and hats Personal flotation device (i.e. lifejacket). Children 14 years of age and younger are required to wear a lifejacket. Alcohol and glass containers are not permitted on the Boise River. Learn more about floating safety here. What to Expect: Experience Boise from a unique perspective as you traverse nearly 6 miles of winding river right through the heart of the city. Expect to spend 2-3 hours floating from start to finish. The water will be cold, but is so refreshing on a hot summer day. The river has various levels of flow, allowing for exciting splashes from small rapids and calm swimming opportunities. Just like any rustic river, there are hazards to watch out for including fallen trees, rock outcroppings, and outstretched limbs. All are fairly easy to navigate around when you stay aware of your surroundings. If you fall in, don’t panic! Keep your feet downriver while on your back, and use your arms to steer you to the edge. The Greenbelt DOTS system helps people find their location along the Greenbelt should they need to notify emergency services or a friend. There are white painted dots with a number in them every tenth of a mile on the paved Greenbelt.  Floating the Boise River is a treasured pass-time during the warmer months of the year. Many neighborhoods in Boise have close access to the river, including popular areas in East Boise like River Run, Harris Ranch, and Barber Valley. Search East Boise listings here.

View more

Top Things to Do in Summer in Boise

Boise in the summertime is a treasure trove of activities to keep the whole family entertained. From outdoor endeavors such as floating the river or paddleboarding to events such as the Western Idaho Fair, there is no shortage of things to do. Check out our list of our favorite ways to spend the summer months in Boise, Idaho.   Float the Boise River: One of Boise’s signature attractions is the Boise River, a 102-mile-long tributary of the Snake River that is a beloved spot to float down, enjoy the scenery, and relax during the warmer months of the year. Floating season officially begins in June when water levels are lower after the Spring runoff. The put-in for the Boise River float starts at Barber Park, located in SE Boise off of Eckert Road (about 6 miles from downtown). For more information on floating the Boise River, check out this blog.   Paddleboard at Lucky Peak Discovery Park or Esther Simplot Park/Quinns Pond: Cool down on the hot summer days and enjoy the thrill of paddleboarding at Lucky Peak Discovery Park or Quinn's Pond. At Lucky Peak Discovery Park, take in the breathtaking mountain views in the calm, clear waters perfect for both beginners and experienced paddlers. For an adventure closer to downtown, head to Esther Simplot Park and Quinn's Pond, a popular spot that provides an excellent opportunity to cool off, get some exercise, and paddleboard with beautiful mountain views.   Boating at Arrowrock Reservoir: Located just 20 minutes from downtown Boise, Arrowrock Reservoir offers the perfect place to cool off amidst breathtaking natural beauty. With its vibrant blue waters surrounded by beautiful foothill landscapes, Arrowrock Reservoir is perfect for all types of boating, from relaxing cruises to water sports such as wake surfing and wakeboarding.    Swim at one of the local pools or splash pads: Photo credit to Daniel Olson.  As Boise summer temperatures rise, beat the heat in Boise by taking a refreshing dip at one of the local pools or splash pads. There are many public pools in Boise, from the iconic Natatorium Pool & Hydrotube, Ivywild Pool, Fairmont Pool, and more (check out the full list here). Or, check out a splash pad, an interactive water feature that kids will love. Splash pads are located at Molenaar Park, Borah Park, Comba Park, and more (full list here). With these great spots, Boise offers plenty of ways to stay cool and have fun in the sun!     Grab an Ice Cream Potato at Westside Drive In: Photo credit to West Side Drive In.  Nothing tastes better in the warm summer months than some freezing cold ice cream. The Westside Drive-in is a classic Boise staple that might be best known for its famous Idaho Ice Cream Potato, which is vanilla ice cream coated with cocoa powder and other toppings that looks just like a baked potato! This must-try fun dessert celebrates Idaho’s potato-filled history, and this popular drive-in even had its 5 minutes of fame on the show Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives with Guy Feiri.     Cool off in the mountains: Photo credit to Bogus Basin. Escape the heat and head to Bogus Basin, just a short drive from the city. With its higher altitude, Bogus Basin offers a refreshing retreat with cooler temperatures (sometimes up to 20 degrees cooler than the valley!) and stunning alpine scenery. Bogus Basin is also fully operational in the summer, with activities including hiking, mountain biking, and scenic chairlift rides. They also offer an exhilarating mountain coaster for those seeking a thrill.      Visit the Idaho Botanical Gardens: Photo credit to the Idaho Botanical Garden. Summer in Boise means the Idaho Botanical Gardens are in full bloom. This lush, 50-acre garden offers a stunning array of themed gardens, vibrant plant collections, and scenic walking paths. The Idaho Botanical Garden also hosts a variety of events, workshops, and concerts, so make sure to check their calendar before you go. They are open from 9 am to 5 pm, with admission starting at $14 for nonmembers and discounts offered for children, seniors, and students.     Visit Green Acres Food Park: Photo credit to Green Acres. Tucked away on the Boise Greenbelt right by Payette Brewing Co., Green Acres offers local food trucks, drinks, and live music in a relaxed park setting. It is family-friendly and dog-friendly with plenty of yard games to keep everyone entertained. They are typically open from 11 am to 8 pm, but check the daily schedule before you go for more details!     Enjoy an outdoor concert: Boise has no shortage of outdoor concerts in the summertime. The Neighborhood concert series offers free pop-up concerts in parks around Boise with food trucks, vendors, and beer from Lost Grove Brewing. The summer schedule includes 6 concerts and can be found here. Another great spot is Outlaw Field, a wide-open grassy, park-like setting with a backdrop of the foothills located by the Old Idaho Penitentiary and the Idaho Botanical Gardens. For more information on outdoor concerts this summer, check out this blog.   Go to the Western Idaho Fair: Photo credit to Expo Idaho. Held annually in August, the Western Idaho Fair offers a fun-filled mix of thrilling rides, live entertainment, and delicious fair food. With plenty of agricultural exhibits, lively concerts, and exciting rides, the fair is sure to have something for everyone. This summer it will take place from August 16th through 25th, and more information can be found here.    

View more

What to Expect When Selling Your Home this Summer

Photo credit: Lysi Bishop Real Estate Summer is a great season to sell a home in, though it differs from the bustling spring market. Much like winter, summer is considered a "shoulder season" in real estate. During this time, overall market activity tends to decrease as many people are on vacations or busy with other commitments. This seasonal slowdown can lead to fewer buyers actively looking, which may result in longer listing times. However, serious buyers who are looking during the summer are often more motivated, which can lead to smoother transactions. The warmer weather and longer daylight hours also provide excellent conditions for showing homes at their prime, making it the perfect season for highlighting outdoor spaces and landscaping. In typical summer seasons in real estate, sellers can expect to experience these things: Less Showings. During the summer, there are typically fewer buyers out looking for homes. With many people out of town on vacation or busy with seasonal activities, the number of showings tends to drop. Less Offers. The demand in the summer usually decreases, resulting in a smaller pool of potential buyers. Because of this, homes on the market often receive fewer offers than during a busy season such as spring. Serious Buyers. Serious buyers who are committed to finding a home will often stay in town or visit during summer school breaks. They often want to buy a property before the new school year begins in the fall, making them a more motivated buyer. Higher Utility Bills. Keeping a home comfortable and cool for showings during the hot summer months can lead to higher utility bills. This is especially true for vacant properties, where maintaining a good temperature can be crucial for keeping potential buyers comfortable throughout their tour. Summer is an opportune time to sell a home. If you’re seeking information on what your home’s value is and how we can assist in your real estate needs, contact us at (208) 870-8292, email us at info@lysibishop.com, or view our home valuation tool here.  

View more