EASY OUTDOOR ADVENTURES FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

By Heather Hamilton-Post

Idaho offers no shortage of outdoor adventures suited for the whole family— and Boise is no exception. From physical feats to tasty picnics, our parks, trails, and landscape provide a variety of adventures for families who love the outdoors or those who are just learning to like the outdoors too. Whether you’re after a playdate at the park or something a little more rugged, the Treasure Valley has you covered.

PLAYGROUNDS Midway Park

If you’re looking for something a little different, check out Midway Park, located in Nampa. The park hosts a variety of new and fun playground equipment that pays homage to Idaho’s agricultural roots—a barn, a rideable cow, etc. There are picnic shelters, pickleball courts, baseball fields, lots of green space, and clean restrooms. Parts of the park are still being built too— look for additions like an amphitheater and splash pad in the future!

Midway Park.

PHOTO BY RANDALL POST

Settlers Park

This Meridian favorite is a must-play for Idaho kids! With plenty of picnic space, parking, and even concessions, Settlers Park is a blast. Home to Idaho’s first universally accessible playground, the playground area also includes a little City of Rocks, splash pad, and sound garden. Play horseshoes, tennis, disc golf, or softball here too— there’s even a pond for fishing!

Settlers Park.

PHOTO BY RANDALL POST

SPLASH PADS

Indian Creek Plaza

Indian Creek Plaza helped breathe new life into the City of Caldwell, and the splash pad makes the area fun for the whole family! Grab a coffee or treat, snag a picnic table, and watch the kids play until sundown. Check out one of the many vendors nearby, or play one of the games available in the plaza while you beat that summer heat.

Stephen C. Guerber Park

Have an adventure at Stephen Gruber Park, which sits on 15 acres of land in Eagle and features one of the valley’s best splash pads—and they’ve got shaved ice! The splash pad is huge, providing every variety of water sprayer you could hope for. Run over, under, or through, or stay dry on the playground, which is also innovative and cool!

HIKES

Idaho Botanical Garden

No matter the time of year, the Idaho Botanical Garden offers great views of

the city and an easy hike for the whole family. Enjoy the fish pond, interactive art exhibits, or treehouse as you traipse through the endless variety of plant life in different stages of growth throughout the year. In the winter, check out Winter Garden aGlow or the autumnal Scarecrow Stroll for more fun.

Hyatt Hidden Lakes Reserve

Nestled among West Boise subdivisions, Hyatt Hidden Lakes Reserve offers a beautiful walk, perfect for families, birdwatchers, and anyone who enjoys a little bit of fresh air. Find a variety of water, trailheads, pathways, and overlook areas in this 53-acre paradise, which is open to foot traffic only and has restrooms open year round.

FISHING

Eagle Island State Park

There’s lots to do at this dog-friendly state park, including fishing. A little more remote (although totally accessible and close to town) than some of the ponds around the city, Eagle Island State Park provides great fishing for the whole family with a stocked pond and river access. Anybody over the age of 14 needs a license, but celebrate Idaho’s Free Fishing Day on the second Saturday in June with no license required.

Fishing Eagle Island State Park.

PHOTO BY KAREN DAY

Quinn’s Pond

Once a gravel pit, Quinn’s Pond is now home to a pond that is utilized for fishing, swimming, and non-motorized water sports. Adjacent to the Boise River and greenbelt, the water is clear, which makes it a popular spot. Take the family fishing on the edge of downtown Boise, pack a picnic, and bring your paddleboard for a full day of fun.

MOUNTAINS

Bogus Basin

Whether you’re anxious to try a new snow sport or looking for an adrenaline-filled bike ride in warmer weather, Bogus Basin has you covered. No longer just a winter destination (although there’s plenty of that too), Bogus is home to a variety of trails, restaurants, and even a mountain coaster.

Bogus Basin Mountain Coaster.

PHOTO COURTESY OF BOGUS BASIN

Tamarack

Tamarack Resort is one of a kind, no matter the weather. With zipline tours, axe throwing, hiking, guided fishing, and more, this mountain gem truly has something for everyone in your family. Just two and a half hours from Boise, find deep snow, deep water (Lake Cascade is right there), and loads of fun.