Boise, ID

Tucked into the foothills of the Rocky Mountains and along the Boise River, Boise revels in the outdoor life. From skiing at Bogus Basin and kayaking down rivers to hiking, biking and bird watching, there is an abundance of ways to enjoy and embrace nature.

Take an extended walk or bike ride along the Boise River Greenbelt. This is a 22-mile (35.4-kilometer) tree-lined paved pathway that follows the river through the city and encompasses several parks and wildlife habitats. The path runs on both sides of the river and can be accessed from numerous streets and bridges in the city. Look for the local wildlife that includes songbirds, Canada geese and great blue herons.

Float down the river on a raft or inner tube, or rent a kayak to explore the waterway. Engage your sense of adventure with some whitewater rafting on the main section of the Payette River, just 40 minutes outside of Boise.

During winter months make your way up to the Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area for skiing and snowboarding. There are 2,600 acres (1,052 hectares) for day skiing and 165 acres (66.7 hectares) for night skiing. The resort is situated 16.5 miles (26.5 kilometers) north of Boise.

Enjoy a day at Boise National Forest. There are more than two and a half million acres (800,000 hectares) of forests, mountains and fast rivers. Here you can hike, bike, rock climb, sail or water ski. Overnight camping is possible at many forest locations. There are developed and undeveloped sites, and remote cabins are available for rent.

Boise knows how to excite lovers of the outdoors, but the city also has many indoor attractions. Downtown Boise’s few blocks are easily explored on foot. Here you’ll find a number of major attractions including the Boise Art Museum, the Discovery Center of Idaho, a hands-on science museum, and the Basque Museum and Cultural Center. At night the downtown area turns into a party playground with several bars, lounges and clubs featuring live entertainment.