Why Boise is a Recreational Haven

Photo credit to Lysi Bishop Real Estate Boise is rapidly gaining a reputation as a recreational haven, and for good reason. Not only are the surroundings of the city diverse and full of natural beauty, but these recreation spots are mere minutes from downtown Boise, adding a huge convenience and ease of use. From the rugged beauty and stunning skylines of the foothills trails to the meandering waters of the Boise River, Boise has something for every nature enthusiast and fun-lover. Check out these beloved recreation spots and discover why Boise provides an unparalleled experience for outdoor recreationists.    Foothills Trails: Photo credit to Lysi Bishop Real Estate Boise's natural beauty shines through in the Ridge-to-Rivers foothills trails system, a sprawling network of trails that wind through the hills surrounding Boise. Whether you're an avid hiker, runner, mountain biker, casual walker, or even equestrian, the foothills trails offer an escape into nature just minutes from neighborhoods and downtown. These trails vary in difficulty, from exhilarating downhill bike trails and steep climbs to slow, rolling hills. Trails feature breathtaking views of the city skyline and surrounding mountains, making each day on the trails a beautiful and exciting part of Boise’s recreation scene.   The Boise River: Photo credit to Lysi Bishop Real Estate Flowing through the heart of the city, the Boise River is a cherished escape to nature for locals and visitors alike. Known for its meandering and gentle currents, the Boise River offers a variety of water-based recreational activities. During the summer, the river comes alive with rafters, tubers, and paddleboarders. Flyfishers wade in and hope to catch the elusive Rainbow or Cutthroat Trout. The Boise River Greenbelt, a paved pathway that hugs the water's edge on both the north and south sides, provides the perfect path for a relaxing stroll or bike ride by the water. With easy access just minutes from downtown, the Boise River is a beloved recreation spot by Boiseans.    Lucky Peak Reservoir: Photo credit to Lysi Bishop Real Estate A short drive from Boise and just minutes from Bown Crossing, Lucky Peak Reservoir is the water enthusiast's dream with crystal-clear waters and stunning surroundings. Boating, fishing, and picnicking opportunities are plentiful on this large reservoir that is surrounded by expansive foothills. Whether you're bringing the whole family out on a boat or enjoying a sunset swim from the docks, Lucky Peak Reservoir is a peaceful escape from the city.    Bogus Basin Ski Area: Photo credit to Lysi Bishop Real Estate In the winter season, Bogus Basin Ski Area transforms into a snowy wonderland, attracting skiers, snowboarders, and tubers. Just 16 miles from Boise, this ski resort is only a 30 to 45-minute drive from downtown. Bogus Basin offers a variety of runs to cater to all skill levels, with 1,800 feet of vertical feet and 2,600 acres of terriorty plus a terrain park. The crisp mountain air and stunning panoramic views perfectly complement the exhilarating ski runs, making Bogus Basin a premier winter destination. The fun doesn’t stop come spring - Bogus also has an extensive trail system with lifts running for downhill biking and hiking in the summer. A ropes course and mountain coaster are also available for thrill seekers!    Whitewater Park: Photo credit to Lysi Bishop Real Estate Located in Garden City by Quinn’s Pond, the Boise Whitewater Park is a river surfing and kayak wave that is open year-round. Positioned on the Boise River, this park contains an expertly designed wave that alternates days for kayaking and surfing. Whether you're a seasoned river surfer, a beginner looking for a thrilling experience, or just want to watch the fun from the banks, the Boise Whitewater Park offers a unique adventure right in the heart of Boise.

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Mountain Getaways Close to Boise

One of the best parts about Boise is its proximity to the expansive mountains and wilderness Idaho offers. The Gem State is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, and these locations (all a short road trip from Boise) offer a wide variety of options for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers to relax, unwind, and reconnect with our landscape. If you need a place to escape the hustle and bustle of day-to-day life, these mountain getaways offer a refreshing escape.    McCall: Nestled on the shores of stunning Payette Lake, McCall is a beautiful mountain town that draws visitors with its year-round outdoor activities. In the winter, enjoy skiing at Brundage Mountain or Tamarack Resort, both local ski resorts that offer expansive runs and top-notch snow. The summer months in McCall offer countless opportunities for hiking, boating on Payette Lake, biking, and fishing. McCall is a two hour drive from Boise.   Lodging options in McCall: Shore Lodge - This luxury lakeside resort offers rooms right by the water with unrivaled amenities including a spa, private movie theater, restaurant, hot tubs, and pool. Hotel McCall - This historic hotel sits in the heart of downtown McCall, offering a blend of old-timey charm and modern class. Amenities include an indoor pool, spa, and an outstanding in-house restaurant.   Sun Valley: Renowned for its rich ski history  and upscale atmosphere, Sun Valley is an iconic mountain getaway. Downtown Ketchum offers a western ski town feel, with high end restaurants (try the Pioneer Saloon for a delicious steak) and classy boutiques and stores. With its world-renowned skiing (often used as a training ground for Olympians), Bald Mountain is ideal for intermediate to advanced skiers and snowboarders with steep pitches and long runs. There is also a second hill, Dollar Mountain, which is the perfect place for beginner skiers and snowboarders to hit the slopes. In the summer, Sun Valley comes alive with beautifully green mountains filled with hiking and biking trails, and spectacular fishing in the Wood River. Sun Valley sits a three hour drive from Boise.   Lodging options in Sun Valley: Sun Valley Lodge - This classic resort has a rich history of celebrity guests and offers elegant accommodations and exceptional amenities. The resort is only minutes from the ski hill and is surrounded by multiple restaurants, shops, a movie theater, and a bowling alley. Limelight Hotel Ketchum - Limelight is a contemporary hotel with a relaxed atmosphere, situated blocks from downtown Ketchum. Amenities include mountain ski shuttles, free bike rentals, outdoor pools and hot tubs, and complimentary breakfast.   Cascade: Cascade offers a quieter retreat, away from the crowds of popular McCall and Sun Valley. Located near the shores of Lake Cascade, this area is ideal for those seeking a serene escape with plenty of activities including boating, hunting, fishing, and hiking. Lake Cascade State Park offers stunning views and forested trails, enveloping you in nature. In the winter, activities include snowshoeing, snowmobiling, nordic skiing, and downhill skiing at Brundage and Tamarack which are about a 30-40 minute drive. A fun fact: Lake Cascade is not a natural lake but a reservoir. It is the 4th largest in the state, but is only 33 meters deep, making it a warm lake. Cascade is about an hour and a half minutes from Boise, and 40 minutes from McCall.    Lodging options in Cascade: Hotel NoBo - This beautiful hotel stands out in Cascade as a full-service hotel offering an elevated experience. Recently renovated, these rooms are the perfect home base for your mountain adventure.  Alpine Lodge Hotel - The Alpine Lodge offers newly renovated rooms with modern amenities as well as a RV park. There is also an entire rustic lodge available to rent, with two bedrooms and a spacious kitchen and living room area for those who want a little extra room.   Donnelly: Sitting near the base of Tamarack Resort, Donnelly is an excellent spot for a ski vacation or a summer trip to explore the surrounding mountains. While known for its world-class skiing, Tamarack Resort offers year-round outdoor activities, with summer activities including hiking, mountain biking, and zip-lining. Donnelly itself is on the northern side of Lake Cascade, with stunning views, easy outdoor access, and even a local hot springs, Gold Fork Hotsprings. Donnelly is about a two hour drive from Boise.   Lodging options in Donnelly: Tamarack Resort - Offering a variety of upscale accommodations including a luxury lodge, full homes and cottages, and condos, Tamarack has lodging for every family or group. The resort also offers dining, outdoor pools and hot tubs, and a spa.  Boulder Creek Inn - This hotel features a convenient location, comfortable rooms, and a complimentary breakfast.   Garden Valley: Photo credit to Southwest Idaho Travel Association Tucked along the scenic Middle Fork of the Payette River, Garden Valley is a tranquil mountain escape that celebrates the natural beauty of Idaho. The quaint small town features a charming outdoor theater that puts on plays in the summer, and a few saloons and restaurants. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a wide variety of activities like hiking, rafting, fishing, horseback riding, snowmobiling, and exploring the nearby hot springs.   Lodging options in Garden Valley:  Walk on the Wildside B&B - This bed and breakfast combines the atmosphere of staying in a 1930s Idaho ranch house with the modern conveniences of the 21st century. Expect to see plenty of wildlife (even Elk bugling) and truly feel immersed in the peacefulness of country living. The Three Bears Inn - This small boutique-style Inn offers quaint lodging with a rustic vibe. They offer both hotel rooms and stand-alone cabins.

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5 Events in Boise and Beyond - February 23rd - 25th

                       Photo Credit: deborah-diem via Pexels 5 Events in Boise & Beyond 1. February Brew School Where: Dawson Taylor Coffee When: Saturday, February 24 Time: 12:00 - 1:00 PM EVENT DETAILS HERE   2. Opera Idaho - Romeo et Juliette Where: Morrison Center When: Sunday, February 25 Time: 2:30 - 6:30 PM EVENT DETAILS HERE   3. YogaPop at Edward’s Where: Edward’s Greenhouse & Flowershop When: Sunday, February 25 Time: 9:30 - 10:30 AM EVENT DETAILS HERE   4. Telaya Speakeasy Where: 560 W Main Street When: Saturday, February 24 Time: 7:00 - 9:00 PM EVENT DETAILS HERE   5. 2024 Beer & Chili Cookoff Where: Sockeye Grill & Brewery (Fairview) When: Saturday, February 24 Time: 1:00 PM EVENT DETAILS HERE    

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