The Boise Fire Department recommends wearing good shoes and life jackets when floating the river. The beloved river officially opened for its 2020 float season earlier this month, but be aware. Its a leisurely 2-3 hour float down the Boise River. The first few miles of your float will feature scenic views of sage-speckled foothills before giving way to the Warm Springs Golf Course. Many people choose to bring alcoholic beverages on the river, its just not always recommended. BOISE, Idaho Ada County Parks and Waterways announced Friday evening that the 2022 Boise River float season will begin Monday, June 27. If you park in a no-parking zone, Holloway said you could get a parking ticket or have your car towed by the city. The Boise River tubing season often begins sometime in June and goes through Labor Day. The trip is about 6 miles and takes 2-3 hours. How to Float the Boise River. The float itself takes around 1.5 hours to complete. Rentals cost anywhere from $25 for three hours (for a tube) to $60 for three hours (for a six-person raft). Make sure to pack out whatever you bring and dont forget to put on sunscreen! Exact dates depend on water flow and level, and are announced in early summer each year. Floaters enjoy the Boise River during triple-digit temperatures on August 31, 2022. The water may appear calm, but it can be dangerous. They have tubes, deluxe tubes, 2-person kayaks, 4-person rafts, or 6-people rafts. Navigating the Boise River during float season can be safe for the whole family if you follow a few simple guidelines. Raft in position, can secured, you slide through the drop in the river. Floating the Boise River is a fun and easy way to spend a hot summer day in Idaho! Jumping off bridges isnt illegal unless posted and those signs usually denote where the water is too shallow for a safe jump. For instance, many visitors rush through Barber Park without pausing to enjoy it. Following these simple tips can ensure a safe and fun float trip. The shuttle costs $3 per person and leaves Ann Morrison Park every hour on weekdays and every 20 minutes on weekends.Many times on busy days there are lines for the shuttle, but if youre willing to wait, its a great cost-effective option to float the Boise River.Boise River Float RulesThere are a number of rules when floating the Boise River, and its so important to follow them. This includes showing students around campus, helping them make friendships and connections, and introducing them to all of the (many) available resources in the summer . The 2022 Boise River float season will be coming to an end after Labor Day. Or, bring a wicking towel with you and stash it in your dry bag. Each year around 100,000 people float the river.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'dearboise_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_6',113,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-dearboise_com-large-leaderboard-2-0');Here are some rules for floating the Boise River (from Ada County, Idaho):You cannot drink within 100 feet of the Boise River, so no alcohol (this is something people used to do on a regular basis)Make sure everyone can swimEveryone should wear a personal flotation device they are included in your raft rentalif(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'dearboise_com-leader-1','ezslot_5',114,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-dearboise_com-leader-1-0');Do not try to take out an unapproved floating vessel, like air mattresses, inner tubes, or beach toysDo not take children under 50 pounds on the riverUse a buddy systemTell your friends or family when you are expected to get off the riverif(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'dearboise_com-large-mobile-banner-2','ezslot_4',115,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-dearboise_com-large-mobile-banner-2-0');Wear shoes to protect your feetAlways know where you are on the river, so you can tell a rescue team if you had to call themDo not throw trash in the river or surrounding areasWhere to End: Ann Morrison ParkThe float itself takes around 1.5 hours to complete. The current river flow is around 770 cubic feet per second (cfs) but was near 1300 cfs for much of the summer. Two other permanent restrooms are readily accessible during the float: one in Julia Davis Park and the other in Ann Morrison. A shuttle departs Ann Morrison every hour on the hour Monday-Thursday from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. at a cost of $3. That way you can change into them once you get out of the river. Boise River float season to close after Labor Day Boise River float season to close after Labor Day August 31, 2022 It's been a hot and busy summer on the Boise River with thousands of floaters enjoying the water between the put-in at Barber Park and the take-out in Ann Morrison Park. Make sure everyone in your party can swim. Vehicles parked in unauthorized areas could be ticketed or towed. Im excited to help others discover the great things to do in Idaho. We're excited as ever to partake in this treasured summer pastime, but keep in mind some changes have been made to the floating experience and you'll want to be aware of them before you head out. Hi Susie, the river generally closes after Labor Day weekend (which it also did this year). While Barber Park usually has free air stations available to inflate vessels, for the summer 2021 season, park officials have declined to turn on the air stations to discourage community spread of the coronavirus. Shuttle ridership is way up and Boise Parks and Recreation Director Doug Holloway says that reflects the difficulty of parking at Barber Park. Once river flows decrease and stabilize in the spring, an effort is made by the Boise Fire Department to identify and mitigate obvious hazards to tubers and boaters. Slick roads? Youll pass under many bridges during your journey downtown. There is a new pick-up and drop-off zone at the park to accommodate floaters new this summer, as well. By: Christina Lords - February 28, 2023 5:51 pm. We try to up-staff when we know it's going to be busy and we know its going to be hot. A start date for float . Heres a step-by-step guide to ensure that you have the best possible time floating the Boise River. First responders intervened in about 115 incidents on the river this summer, according to a Boise Fire Department spokeswoman. If youre planning a summer trip to Boise, then book one of the best Boise vacation rentals and plan to enjoy the abundance of sunshine Boise has to offer. The 2022 Boise River float season is scheduled to open on Monday, June 27th! Parks and Waterways announcement also means starting Monday. Major irrigation diversion dams sit above and below both parks, making it impossible to start your float before Barber Park or continue beyond Ann Morrison Park. Its been another record-breaking summer on the Boise River. Sign Up to Save Favorite Listings, Save Searches & More Posted You put in at Barber Park and take out at Ann Morrison Park in Boise, Idaho. Use the buddy system and stay together while floating. The trip is about 6 miles and takes 2-3 hours. Once youve secured your rental, hop in the river right there at Barber Park and enjoy the float. 3. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Im a local Idaho mom who not only loves Idaho, but I also love to travel. There is a dam just after the park, which could endanger your life so get out where you are supposed to. How Fast Is Boise River flowing? Its been a hot and busy summer on the Boise River with thousands of floaters enjoying the water between the put-in at Barber Park and the take-out in Ann Morrison Park. However, once the season officially begins, shuttle buses regularly run between Barber Park and the take-out location in Ann Morrison Park for $3 per person, which is a much easier commute. All items are first-come, first-served, and I have been there on a super busy day where they ran out of everything so be prepared. Boise and Ada County officials estimate more than 150,000 floaters put in for the 6-mile ride down the river this summer - and there are still four days left in the official floating season. Because the Barber Park air stations are no longer operational, floaters are encouraged to bring their own air pumps. From Southeast Boise to the North End, up to Eagle and west to Meridian, or right in the middle of the Boise Bench and downtown - We Know Boise. We do not accept reservations. Boise River Raft & Tube is open at Barber Park during the float season in Boise. Its also worth noting that reservations for rentals cannot be made in advance; the tubes and boats are rented on a first-come, first-served basis. Do not float the river if you do not know how to swim, or dont feel confident in swift water. Theres a shuttle that runs between the two parks and offers rides to all floaters during the season. We kind of predict every year will be record-breaking, said Robbie Sosin, Ada County Parks and Waterways Program and Education Specialist. Float the Boise River from Ada County's Barber Park to Ann Morrison Park in Boise, Idaho. There are a number of things that go into the decision to open the Boise River. [New guided raft tours hit the Boise River]. Make sure you know how to swim, and that everyone in your party is prepared to get wet. The 2022 Boise River float season is scheduled to open on Monday, June 27th! A dry bag is a must when you float any river. . If you want a quality one though, they can get spendy so if you are only going to float the Boise River once or twice, the rentals are probably a better investment. per group (up to 2) Boise River Guided Rafting, Swimming and Wildlife Tour. Because the river is not very deep, it means bringing your kids (with life vests of course) is a great way to get them outside and on the water. Starting tomorrow, the popular tradition of cruising down the river between Barber and Ann Morrison parks will officially open to the public now with a shuttle between parks and tube rental. Holloway said the citys parking enforcement staff and Boise Police Department officers will be patrolling the area outside the park. The landscape is constantly changing so be prepared for new obstacles. Updated: 10:06 PM MDT September 5, 2022. Parks and Recreation Director Doug Holloway said as floating has gotten more popular, it has outgrown the amount of parking at Barber Park. The park has a raft and tube rental and a shuttle bus service. The shuttle costs $3 per person and leaves Ann Morrison Park every hour on weekdays and every 20 minutes on weekends. Updated June 24, 2022 6:46 PM. All in all, its pretty chill. That way once you get out at Ann Morission you can go to your car for towels and dry clothes. Float in the middle of the river. Why not take the whole family and linger in the park before beginning your trip downstream? Some changes have been made in order to accommodate social distancing city guidelines and keep everybody as safe as possible. Once on dry land, deflate your tube and pack it back to your car. announced Friday evening that the 2022 Boise River float season will begin Monday, June 27. Tell us about your favorite Idaho river floating experiences in the comments below. If you want to enjoy it, know a little bit about it, Holloway said. While floating the Boise River may seem like a no-brainer, theres a lot of planning that must happen before the river is safe for users to enjoy. Located in southwestern Idaho, the Boise River is a great place to float during the summer months. Hi Jan, I believe as long as its made to float on water you should be fine. Sign In, Boises Best Trail Hikes for All Skill Levels, Classic Boise: 19 Things That Get to the Heart of Living in Boise. Boise and Ada County officials estimate more than 150,000 floaters put in for the 6-mile ride down the river this summer - and there are still four days left in the "official" floating season . The water is very cold. I would reach out to the contact on this page to make sure: https://adacounty.id.gov/parksandwaterways/float-the-boise-river/. (208) 570-6780 | [email protected]. But, this year the City of Boise is asking prospective floaters to park at Ann Morrison Park and take the shuttle to the beginning of the six-mile stretch, instead of the other way around. When those water levels are high, there are a lot more hazards out there, he said. 2022, Day365 - an Idaho . Boise State Public Radio News | Ada County Parks & Waterways is also seeing an increase in people using the Boise River. State law requires you to have life jackets for you and everyone in your party. 9/7/2021. There are a number of rules when floating the Boise River, and its so important to follow them. Look for the signs to exit the river on the left before the big bridge at Ann Morrision. on Tuesday, June 30th, 2020 at 1:39pm. Operating Hours . You'll enter the river at Barber Park, then float past beautiful trees and greenery on your way down to Ann Morrison Park. Heres how much longer winter will last in Boise, This Grammy-winning band has never been to Boise. To float the river, you need a vehicle at Ann Morrison (where you exit the river) and a ride to Barber Park (where you start your float). The dive team has been working hard to clean up the river, but not all hazards can or will be mitigated and recreationists should always be aware of the river environment and its dangers. The tubing season usually starts around mid to late June and goes through Labor Day. Barber Park floater amenities, equipment rentals, and shuttle service are only available when river and weather conditions are appropriate . For more information on floating the Boise River, including the rental and shuttle schedule, click here. Come learn how to land one in March 30 class, Vote for the Treasure Valley boys basketball player of the week (Feb. 20 to 26), Pennsylvania warrant unsealed: Heres what police seized from Kohbergers family home, More snow? Please arrive early or plan to park in Ann Morrison Park and. 825. Rentals cost anywhere from $25 for three hours (for a tube) to $60 for three hours (for a six-person raft).Visiting Zoo Boise: Family-friendly things to do in BoiseYou can also purchase a tube or raft at many local stores, anywhere from REI and Target to even Walgreens sometimes. by Lisa Kohl The float takes approximately 2-3 hours (about 6 miles). Readjusting, you grab your paddle and get ready, like an Old West cowboy saddling up, ready to ride. Parking at Barber Park has a seasonal fee and is limited. Barber Park is a quick 20-minute drive from downtown. 2 photos. New no-parking signs have gone up on the streets closest to Barber Park. Special Dates for 2022: . There are three splashy diversion drops during the first half of the float, and floaters are asked to use caution and steer their vessels to avoid all obstacles, which include bridge piers, rocks, debris and overhanging tree limbs. To handle this, he said the city hopes more people will park at the end of their trip where there is more room for cars. Rental Equipment. The park is perfect for larger gatherings, like family reunions. If I have my own approved tube, vest and dont want the shuttle, then its totally free? *St. Luke's is an equal opportunity employer without regard to race, religion, color, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other . On the float, youll pass by several sandy beaches and places to stop along the shore. See the latest news from around the Treasure Valley and the Gem State in our YouTube playlist: Notifications can be turned off anytime in the browser settings. Airports, EVs, roads, buses, more: $1.7 billion in infrastructure dollars pour into Idaho. The opening date coincides with the first. All in all, it's pretty chill. River water is still very cold and can disable even the best of swimmers. If you do bring your own raft though, you can air them up at stations at Barber Park.Boise River Raft & Tube is closed for some major holidays, so its always good to check their website before you make plans.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'dearboise_com-banner-1','ezslot_2',112,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-dearboise_com-banner-1-0');Taking the ShuttleBoise River Raft & Tube also operates a shuttle service between Barber Park and Ann Morrison Park. September 5 will be the last day raft rentals and a shuttle service between Ann Morrison Park and Barber Park will be . Thats where the shuttles pick up rafters and drop rafters off. https://adacounty.id.gov/parksandwaterways/float-the-boise-river/, Was Boise always Idahos capital? Raft rentals and shuttle service will be available the weekend of September 2-5 and the official 2022 Boise River Float Season will, Ada County Parks & Waterways, Boise Fire, and Boise Parks and Recreation remind everyone planning to float during the upcoming holiday weekend to come prepared, The parking lot at Barber Park can fill up quickly on busy weekends. There are many low hanging branches on the banks of the Boise River, and its easy to get caught up in them if you dont have any paddles. They offer rafts and tubes, depending on your needs. The main Boise River float is from Barber Park to Ann Morrison Park. The Greenbelt follows the beautiful Boise River corridor for more than 30 miles, and the Boise foothills are home to miles of hiking and biking trails. It all depends on ADA county. 5. from. You might even consider taking a Boise to Yellowstone road trip and check it off your bucket list. It will hold your cell phone, car keys, money, and anything else you need to keep with you. Parking at Ann Morrison is free and available in several locations. This dry bag is a great option. By encouraging the Ann Morrison piece we feel it will lessen the parking issues were having around Barber Park.. Before you know it, youll be wondering why you didnt try floating sooner! There are a number of things to know before your Boise River float though, so here are our top tips for floating the Boise River in Boise, Idaho. If youre feeling brave, pull over and try a leap of faith off a bridge (being mindful to jump at least 50 feet from other floaters). Yep! However, further down the river is a whitewater park, which you can enjoy with a surfboard. 7341. The number is up significantly from past years. (208) 570-6780 | [email protected]. Seattle, WA. Im debating between purchasing a tube on site from the river&raft vs. buying an Intex River Run Float elsewhere and want to make sure what I bring is approved. If youve floated up an appetite, cross over the bridge to the Northside of the river and grab a bite and a beverage at Green Acres Food Truck Park, Payette Brewing or Push & Pour coffee shop. Boise River Raft & Tube also operates a shuttle service between Barber Park and Ann Morrison Park. Rescue crews were nearby and cut the person loose. There are three small drops in the river and several curves that require light navigation. Be sure to wear water shoes to protect your feet and bring a hat, sunscreen, wear your swimsuit, and plan to bring some bottled water and snacks. It's technically a park but it's also a pathway that goes through the heart of the city and provides biking, walking, and running trails. St. Luke's is a nationally recognized leading healthcare organization where people like you drive our success. Get more stories delivered right to your email. Picture this: Youre kicked back in a raft, feet up with a can in your hand. One of the best things to do in Boise during the summer is float the Boise River! Floating season runs mid-June through Labor Day, seven days a week. You have the choice of parking at Barber Park in Southeast Boise for a $7 parking fee or at Ann Morrison Park for free. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! Thank you! The Boise River will officially open for floating season on Monday, according to Ada County Parks and Waterways. It fluctuates throughout the year between 3 feet to 7 feet, depending on the water flow and the area of the river. Many of the calls were for people and rafts stuck at the bridge pillars or other hazards, and from people who were not wearing or using the proper equipment. Learn more about rental equipment for floating the Boise River here. The Boise River is a unique and multi-seasonal natural feature of the city of Boise. When you get to Barber Park, you can rent a tube or raft from a local company (more in the next section) and they will pick it up for you at the end of your Boise River float. It creates potential hazards around bridges and restricts movement. All raft rentals come with life jackets and paddles. The general rule of thumb for floating is if you dont want it to get wet, dont bring it. I wouldnt recommend taking very young children or babies with you. You definitely dont want to miss out on floating this incredible river this summer, so heres all you need to know for your upcoming river float. The trick is to find parking. First things first: You need a good raft or tube and a paddle. Roberts said one of many close calls this summer was a floater pinned underwater against the broadway bridge by a rope tied between rafts. Barber Park daily visitation increased by 22% over last season, with 530 vehicles on average parked at the park, 1,000 floaters per hour launched from Barber Park on the seasons busiest days, 45,000 floaters rode the shuttle (815 daily, There were an estimated 150,000 plus Boise River floaters this season, This is the hottest season on record with an average high of 96 F. For more information on floating the Boise River, including the rental and shuttle schedule, Boise River float season to close after Labor Day. Originally published in Jun 2020, updated Jun 2021. Its been a hot and busy summer on the Boise River with thousands of floaters enjoying the water between the put-in at Barber Park and the take-out in Ann Morrison Park. Floating the Boise River is a fun summer activity for people of (mostly) all ages and abilities. While people can still float the Boise River,. This story was originally published June 24, 2022, 6:40 PM. Rachel Roberts has been covering sports for the Idaho Statesman since 2005. Everyone should wear life jackets, but its mandatory for kids 14 and under. Weather and/or water conditions could affect opening and closing dates. What qualifies as an approved inner tube? 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The opening date coincides with the firstforecasted triple digit temperature daythis year. Parking at Ann Morrison Park is free, unlike Barber Park. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. Life vests and paddles are also available to rent. Get first-in-line Boise area listing updates, save favorites & much more. Many streets near Barber Park are designated as residential parking districts. Stay hydrated with your favorite non-alcoholic beverage (drinking alcohol on the river is illegal; you can be cited). Please leave the river cleaner than you found it. If you feel cold, simply pull over and get out of the water. Also, please use a raft that you can control and that you can paddle away from low-hanging trees and other hazards. Can I Float the Boise River All Year Round? There are a number of rules when floating the Boise River, and its so important to follow them. Why do people float this particular stretch of river? This summer, the Boise Fire Department responded to approximately 115 calls for service along the Boise River. The first day of the 2022 floating season saw 14 rescue assists by the Boise Fire Department Dive Team in less than six hours, KTVB previously reported. All you need is a tube or raft, a cooler with some drinks and snacks, and a life jacket. Boise River Raft & Tube is open at Barber Park during the float season in Boise. Boise River float season will begin Monday, June 27, the first triple digit temperature day of this year. You will get out of the Boise River at Ann Morrison Park. In addition, each spring the Boise Fire Department sends out a dive team to remove potential hazards like submerged branches, which can deflate vessels or even snag floaters. Plus, the county loses out on . Here are some river safety reminders from Boise Fires Dive Team: -Wear a properly fitted Personal Flotation Device (PFD) at all times when you are in or near the river. Floating the Boise River is the perfect leisurely summer activity for families and those who just want to relax outdoors. Once youre pumped up, put your raft in the river, hop on and enjoy. Boise River Raft & Tube is closed for some major holidays, so its always good to check their website before you make plans. approximately 2-3 hours The float takes approximately 2-3 hours (about 6 miles). Just be sure to schedule your trip in advance, pack everything youll need, choose the right type of float for your group, and relax and enjoy yourself once youre on the river. Complaints from area residents about floater traffic or other inappropriate behavior remained about the same this year, Holloway said, adding that Boise Police regularly patrol the area and have cited and in some cases towed improperly parked vehicles. 2019 LET'S GO BOISE - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. All rights reserved. Here are some rules for floating the Boise River (from Ada County, Idaho): The float itself takes around 1.5 hours to complete. The official float season (with available shuttle service, rentals and paid parking) ends Monday. There will be signs directing you to exit, and if its a busy day you will see everyone else getting out too. -Avoid low-hanging branches. The sun is hot; the river is cool and calm. Don't Have an Account? Your email address will not be published. 2023 City of Boise. Please arrive early or plan to park in Ann Morrison Park and take a shuttle. Summertime in Boise, Idaho means one thing: floating the Boise River! Roberts and Holloway both stressed being properly prepared when venturing onto the Boise River, with proper footwear, capable rafts and inner tubes and a plan for transportation. Once at Ann Morrison Park, you can find the shuttle and head back to Barber Park. The popular Boise Greenbelt also hugs the rivers banks, making it easy to put in and take out on your own terms or even meet up with non-floating friends for a riverside picnic or to fish for rainbow trout. Please look for no parking signs, if you park in an unauthorized area it could result in ticketing or towing. You blink your eyes open to the clear blue sky as you hear the river getting louder ahead. There are so many fun things to do in Boise in the winter as well as the summer. Refreshed, you settle back into your only duties for the two-hour raft ride: chill, sip, paddle, repeat. According to Idaho State Law, all vessels, including rafts and kayaks, need to be equipped with a personal flotation device for each person in the craft. Floating the Boise River from Barber Park Every year over 125,000 people enjoy a leisurely float down the Boise River, floaters put in at Barber Park and take out at Ann Morrison Park. You can also purchase a tube or raft at many local stores, anywhere from REI and Target to even Walgreens sometimes. Where are they going? Unit/Position Summary. The Boise River 2022 summer float-season is open 6/27/2022. Whether fishing, floating, surfing, kayaking, or sitting quietly and contemplating the rushing water is what fulfills you, find a piece of the river and make it yours. You will get out of the Boise River at Ann Morrison Park. If you dont have your own tube or raft, you can rent one. How long does it take to float Boise River? Monday was the final day to float the Boise River from Barber Park to Ann Morrison Park for the 2022 Boise River Float season. You will need your credit card and a photo ID at the tube rental kiosk in order to rent a tube. That incident sent two people to the hospital. Ada County Parks & Waterways, Boise Fire, and Boise Parks and Recreation remind everyone planning to float during the upcoming holiday weekend to come preparedfor the six-mile trip down the river. You close your eyes and tune into the rivers rushing sounds smooth, steady, soothing. With temperatures expected in the triple digits through the end of the official float season, please remember to wear sunscreen, pack and drink plenty of water and know your limits to prevent heat stroke or other heat-related injuries. There are public bathrooms at both Barber Park and Ann Morrison Park, so be sure to use them before getting into the water. Yes you can, but its not recommended.