Trails, rivers, skiing, state parks and licenses
By J&H Digital Services LLCChecked Oct 23, 202613 sources
Boise puts trails, a river and a ski hill within about 45 minutes of downtown. Start with the Ridge to Rivers foothills trails and the 29-mile Greenbelt, add a $10 State Parks Passport when you register your car, and wait 6 months before buying resident fishing or hunting licenses.
Best for: After-work hikes and mountain biking right above Boise
If your boots or tires leave prints, the trail is too wet. Bikes yield to hikers and horses. Leash rules vary by trail.
Best for: Walking, easy bike rides and car-free commutes
Best for: Hot summer days with friends or older kids
Official season is set each year by flows. In 2026 it ran June 20 to Labor Day. Idaho law requires life jackets for kids 14 and under. Check floattheboise.org for current prices and river conditions.
Best for: Skiing close to town, night skiing, Nordic trails
Best for: Picnics on the river (Discovery), beach days at Sandy Point, boating on the reservoir (Spring Shores)
Each vehicle needs a Passport or must pay the daily entrance fee. Bring exact cash or a check for the self-pay tube.
Best for: Swim beach, dog off-leash area and disc golf
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Idaho State Parks Passport | $10 a year ($20 with a 2-year registration) | Add it when you register or renew a vehicle. Covers day use and boat launch fees at state parks. Not camping or Park N Ski. |
| Resident fishing license (adult) | $30.50 | Plus a $5 access/depredation fee |
| Resident hunting license (adult) | $15.75 | Plus a $5 access/depredation fee. Tags are extra. |
| Resident combination (hunt and fish) | $38.75 | Plus a $5 access/depredation fee |
License prices are the standard IDFG resident prices; Price Lock buyers pay less. You must have lived in Idaho for 6 months and show an Idaho driver's license or ID. Until then, buy nonresident licenses. Source: Idaho Fish and Game: resident fees
Best for: Sandboarding and stargazing
Best for: Alpine lakes, camping and big mountain views
Best for: A soak on the way to Stanley
$5 day-use fee for non-campers. Phone is the Lowman Ranger District.
Fees, rules and providers change. Confirm with the official source before you go.
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