by Lisa Kohl If you do decide to bring a few beers, be sure theyre not in glass containers. Boise River Raft & Tube also operates a shuttle service between Barber Park and Ann Morrison Park. That, more than anything, said Boise Fire special operations division chief Paul Roberts, contributed to the number of calls for help more than tripling compared to last year. 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. However, if youre adventurous or if this isnt your first trip downriver there are many ways to expand your two-hour journey into a full afternoon. -Take breaks. Heres a step-by-step guide to ensure that you have the best possible time floating the Boise River. https://adacounty.id.gov/parksandwaterways/float-the-boise-river/, Was Boise always Idahos capital? 5,485 were here. Life vests and paddles are also available to rent. 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? The season usually begins in late June and closes late August. Special Dates for 2022: . Youll need cash for the shuttle, so be sure to have some on you. Why do people float this particular stretch of river? We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. 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. By using this site, you agree to the use of cookies. Water levels could be too high, increasing the risk of drowning, or too low, increasing the likelihood that youll hit the rocky riverbed and injure yourself. 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. Once hazards are removed, and the water level is deemed safe, Ada County Parks and Waterways officially opens the river to floaters. Valley County Commissioners approves to submit grant for S-bridge in Donnelly, Nampa buys two golf courses from the state, ACHD backtracks from dual 8th/9th Street bike lane pitch, approves design of two bike lanes on 8th Street near St. Joes School, Compromise: New version of self-storage unit tax bill gets the approval of Ada Assessor, moves to House floor, Three downtown Eagle buildings to make way for multi-story, mixed-use urban renewal project, ITD approves second traffic light into Dry Creek Ranch over City of Eagle objections, Ada Commissioners approve 310-space RV resort on Black Dog Clays site, Public hearing set for dissolution of Meridian Library District, McLean selects finalists to fill vacant city council seats, Indoor golf course will soon be in full swing in Boise. The sun is hot; the river is cool and calm. Summertime in Boise, Idaho means one thing: floating the Boise River! June 28, 2022 It was a busy opening day of float season on the Boise River Monday with 100+ degree temperatures and people looking for a place to cool down. The quietest times are mornings and early afternoons. You will also pass some Boise landmarks, including Warm Spring Golf Course, Kristin Armstrong Municipal Park, M.K. . Whens the last time you floated the Boise River? A dry bag is a must when you float any river. They offer three-hour rentals for tubes and rafts on a first-come, first-served basis. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! The season usually begins in late June and closes late August. Ada County Parks and Waterwaysannounced Friday evening that the 2022 Boise River float season will begin Monday, June 27. 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. Once youre pumped up, put your raft in the river, hop on and enjoy. You have a high chance of seeing wildlife along the way. You will get out of the Boise River at Ann Morrison Park. 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. PLEASE READ OUR DISCLAIMER FOR MORE INFO. The landscape is constantly changing so be prepared for new obstacles. Especially if you are floating in a tube. 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. Credit card and matching photo id required for all rentals. Float in the middle of the river. You put in at Barber Park and take out at Ann Morrison Park in Boise, Idaho. -Know early signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and dehydration in hot weather. 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 . Your email address will not be published. It was a busy opening day of float season on the Boise River Monday with 100+ degree temperatures and people looking for a place to cool down. Real-time updates and all local stories you want right in the palm of your hand. The Boise River is open for the 2020 float season. Parks and Recreation Director Doug Holloway said as floating has gotten more popular, it has outgrown the amount of parking at Barber Park. 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 Boise River 2022 summer float-season is open 6/27/2022. -Dont tie tubes together. -Wear protective footwear and proper clothing to lower the chances of possible injury. During this time you'll witness countless families and groups enjoying the river's refreshing waters. If you plan on bringing your own tube or raft, be prepared to bring your own inflation equipment. The season for floating the Boise River starts in June sometime and goes through Labor Day in early September. The true number of floaters is likely higher because the estimate is only based on shuttle and parking numbers, leaving out folks who get dropped off at Barber Park and dont park or take the shuttle. There is a dam just after the park, which could endanger your life so get out where you are supposed to. It makes sense to encourage the floaters to park at Ann Morrison, take the shuttles, get out of the river and go get right into your car. Officials expect a very busy weekend and encourage the use of the Barber Park shuttles - especially Friday afternoon and evening, when Ann Morrison park hosts the Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic. This summer, the Boise Fire Department responded to approximately 115 calls for service along the Boise River. Float the Boise River/Facebook You will get out of the Boise River at Ann Morrison Park. 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. How to Float the Boise River. Slick roads? PublishedSeptember 1, 2022 at 8:40 AM MDT. The trip is about 6 miles and takes 2-3 hours. How late can you float the Boise River? Picture this: Youre kicked back in a raft, feet up with a can in your hand. I would reach out to the contact on this page to make sure: https://adacounty.id.gov/parksandwaterways/float-the-boise-river/. Nothing too intense at all, but enough that youll need to pay attention and use your paddles or arms to steer you in the right direction to stay on course. A restricted drivers license bill for undocumented residents is heading to Senate Floor, Snow ending for PM sunshine, but cold & breezy, Fish and Game teams up with local nonprofit to provide day of fishing for special needs youth, Idaho Fish and Game relocate two bull moose, Yellowstone flooding rebuild could take years, cost billions. St. Luke's Health System in Boise is seeking a Flex Registered Nurse (RN) to join our Urologic Oncology team. Boise River Raft & Tube is open at Barber Park during the float season in Boise. Boise State Public Radio News | There are a few rapids on the Boise River. All you need is a tube or raft, a cooler with some drinks and snacks, and a life jacket. We want everyone to have fun and stay safe. The tip is to keep your feet pointed downstream and use your arms to bring you back to safety. 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. While there are people who do float outside this window, you will always hear of many of them needing rescued and that is not cheap (yes, there is a good chance they will charge you for the rescue if you are outside the open window). Boise River float season will begin Monday, June 27, the first triple digit temperature day of this year. There are three small drops in the river and several curves that require light navigation. 2022, Day365 - an Idaho . Many people choose to bring alcoholic beverages on the river, its just not always recommended. All rights reserved. Youll pass under many bridges during your journey downtown. Barber Park is a quick 20-minute drive from downtown. Following these simple tips can ensure a safe and fun float trip. Sign In, Boises Best Trail Hikes for All Skill Levels, Classic Boise: 19 Things That Get to the Heart of Living in Boise. Picture this: You're kicked back in a raft, feet up with a can in your hand. You will get out of the Boise River at Ann Morrison Park. -Avoid low-hanging branches. Each year around 100,000 people float the river. First things first: You need a good raft or tube and a paddle. But his NBA dream isnt over, Support my work with a digital subscription, Trout are Idahos most popular catch. Everyone should wear life jackets, but its mandatory for kids 14 and under. During a Feb. 28, 2023, press conference at the Governor's Ceremonial Office at the Statehouse, Gov. The Boise River is a unique and multi-seasonal natural feature of the city of Boise. For convenience, rented equipment is returned at Ann Morrison Park. The window normally begins around June and ends in August or September. 3. There are public bathrooms at both Barber Park and Ann Morrison Park, so be sure to use them before getting into the water. Or, bring a wicking towel with you and stash it in your dry bag. If you fall in the river, keep your feet pointed downstream, use your arms to get to a safe place on shore or to another raft, and use your feet to push away from rocks or other obstacles. If youve never tried this local rite of passage, dont worry, weve got you covered. 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. All in all, its pretty chill. 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). Theres not much street parking outside of Barber Park either and parking in surrounding neighborhoods is not permitted. In addition to the tube, youll need a small portable air pump. This dry bag is a great option. Id also recommend getting some paddles which youll appreciate once you get on the river. The tubing season usually starts around mid to late June and goes through Labor Day. You might just need it. By: Christina Lords - February 28, 2023 5:51 pm. When you exit the river at Ann Morrison, bring your gear to the clearly-marked return area near Ann Morrison bridge.If you bring your own raft, dont forget to bring a pump. This story has been updated with additional information from Boise Police. Always float with a buddy, its much safer to have someone watching out for you. Make sure everyone in your party can swim. One of the (solutions) is to really emphasize that at Ann Morrison park we have 1,300 parking spaces, Holloway said. It usually takes 2-3 hours to float the Boise River. 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. If you want to enjoy it, know a little bit about it, Holloway said. You can bring your own, purchase one at a store like Fred Meyer or Albertsons, or rent one at Barber Park. Children 14 or younger onboard any type of boat must also wear an approved life jacket when its underway 19 long or less. Floating the Boise River is a fun summer activity for people of (mostly) all ages and abilities. If you park in a no-parking zone, Holloway said you could get a parking ticket or have your car towed by the city. I wouldnt recommend taking very young children or babies with you. [New guided raft tours hit the Boise River]. Get first-in-line Boise area listing updates, save favorites & much more. Originally published in Jun 2020, updated Jun 2021. Please dont plan a float before the season officially opens. Low-Cost Shuttles and Rentals Make Floating the Boise River a Breeze Barber Park is a quick 20-minute drive from downtown. Unit/Position Summary. -Before you go, make a plan for parking. How Fast Is Boise River flowing? Raft and tube rental at Barber Park is available Monday through Thursday from noon to 5 p.m.; Fridays from noon to 6 p.m.; and Saturdays, Sundays and holidays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 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. There are two ways to get to Barber Park: a one-car shuttle or a two-car shuttle. You can rent one-person tubes, four-person rafts, six-person rafts and two-person inflatable kayaks. Once youve secured your rental, hop in the river right there at Barber Park and enjoy the float. In 2022 the fee was $3 per person and they let you bring your raft or tube with you. Where are they going? Youll also find that food trucks often frequent Ann Morrison Park. Your Boise River float will begin at Barber Park, which is located around six miles from downtown Boise. Friday shuttle services run hourly from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. On Saturdays, Sundays and holidays, the shuttle leaves Ann Morrison about every 20 minutes between noon and 9 p.m. Pets are not allowed on the shuttle. It will hold your cell phone, car keys, money, and anything else you need to keep with you. Can I Float the Boise River All Year Round?Where to Start: Barber ParkRenting or Buying a Raft or TubeTaking the ShuttleBoise River Float RulesWhere to End: Ann Morrison Park. The opening date coincides with the first. You will need your credit card and a photo ID at the tube rental kiosk in order to rent a tube. Floaters can bring their own inner tubes, kayaks, or boats to Barber Parks put-in spot, or they can be rented or purchased at the park for $15-$60. Many streets outside of Barber Park are designated as residential parking districts. The shuttle costs $3 per person and leaves Ann Morrison Park every hour on weekdays and every 20 minutes on weekends. The 2022 Boise River float season is scheduled to open on Monday, June 27th! Floating the Boise River is the perfect leisurely summer activity for families and those who just want to relax outdoors. 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. What qualifies as an approved inner tube? Updated June 24, 2022 6:46 PM. The sun is hot; the river is cool and calm. Boise River use saw about a 22% increase from 2021. Fifty feet of distance is the required separation, for jumpers to stay away from floaters, Roberts said. Im excited to help others discover the great things to do in Idaho. 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. Heading to Lake Cascade this weekend for water fun? Please arrive early or plan to park in Ann Morrison Park and. For instance, many visitors rush through Barber Park without pausing to enjoy it. When those water levels are high, there are a lot more hazards out there, he said. If your tube popped along the way, you can discard it in the dead raft bin located at the take-out by the bridge.Getting off the river at Ann Morrison leaves you steps away from downtown Boise and all it has to offer. October 18, 2022 September 20, 2022 by Brent Pollock. You blink your eyes open to the clear blue sky as you hear the river getting louder ahead. Dont be too cool to wear a personal floatation device, especially if you cant swim well. Some navigating is required around corners so you dont get caught up in the trees or brush. Many floaters may not have realized the river was running higher than usual this summer. Is the river open? New no-parking signs have gone up on the streets closest to Barber Park. BOISE, Idaho Ada County Parks and Waterways announced Friday evening that the 2022 Boise River float season will begin Monday, June 27. Holloway said the citys parking enforcement staff and Boise Police Department officers will be patrolling the area outside the park. A woosh of clean, clear water spills into your lap. Where else can you spot wild mink, deer and bald eagles nests, or watch teenagers jumping from bridges, or even stop to picnic or fish on a quiet stretch of beach before floating on to the heart of the city? This story was originally published June 24, 2022, 6:40 PM. 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. Just be aware that if you bring your own tube they do not have the air pumps you can use any more, so you will need to bring your own. 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. The Boise River Greenbelt is 25 miles and runs along the Boise River through downtown Boise. Love Idaho? Use the buddy system and stay together while floating. Every year over 125,000 people float the Boise River. 2019 LET'S GO BOISE - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. While . The water may appear calm, but it can be dangerous. Trout fishing options in Idaho are virtually unlimited, and you can learn how to make the best of those options. 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. -Do not float while under the influence of alcohol. The beloved river officially opened for its 2020 float season earlier this month, but be aware. At the end of the float, you will drive back to Barber Park to pick up the second vehicle. THIS ARTICLE MAY CONTAIN COMPENSATED LINKS. Rachel Roberts has been covering sports for the Idaho Statesman since 2005. Why not take the whole family and linger in the park before beginning your trip downstream? The parking lot at Barber Park can fill up quickly on busy weekends. 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. per group (up to 2) Boise River Guided Rafting, Swimming and Wildlife Tour. 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. There are so many fun things to do in Boise in the winter as well as the summer. Do not forget the holy grail of floating gear: a portable pump. You close your eyes and tune into the river's rushing sounds - smooth, steady, soothing. Its a leisurely 2-3 hour float down the Boise River. Here in Idaho, the Boise River is considered prime floating territory. The opening date coincides with the firstforecasted triple digit temperature daythis year. There is a dam just after the park, which could endanger your life so get out where you are supposed to. You might even consider taking a Boise to Yellowstone road trip and check it off your bucket list. 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. The trip is about 6 miles and takes 2-3 hours. Shuttle Services. Cold temps? 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. 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. Because the Barber Park air stations are no longer operational, floaters are encouraged to bring their own air pumps. Know your limits, come prepared with the right equipment, and have a safe and fun float! First responders intervened in about 115 incidents on the river this summer, according to a Boise Fire Department spokeswoman. Pack a dry bag to keep your cell phone and other essentials safe. on Tuesday, June 30th, 2020 at 1:39pm. There are a number of things that go into the decision to open the Boise River. One-car shuttle: Park at Ann Morrison and ride the parks shuttle service to Barber Park. Wear appropriate clothing and shoes the water is usually in the 50s, temperature wise, even on hot days. The main Boise River float is from Barber Park to Ann Morrison Park. 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. You close your eyes and tune into the rivers rushing sounds smooth, steady, soothing. That way you can change into them once you get out of the river. Raft rentals and shuttle service will be available the weekend of September 2-5 and the official 2022 Boise River Float Season will come to a close on Labor Day. Adventure Tours. 5. from. It has picnic tables and a covered patio, scenic wildlife trails, a playground, and numerous barbecue stations. the Barber Park fee parking kiosk, equipment rentals, shuttle service, and snack shack will all be up and running. Whether buying or selling a home, we provide full-service real estate solutions dedicated to helping our clients achieve their goals. Can I Float the Boise River All Year Round? It creates potential hazards around bridges and restricts movement. September 5 will be the last day raft rentals and a shuttle service between Ann Morrison Park and Barber Park will be . Barber Park floater amenities, equipment rentals, and shuttle service are only available when river and weather conditions are appropriate . We kind of predict every year will be record-breaking, said Robbie Sosin, Ada County Parks and Waterways Program and Education Specialist. All rentals are on a first-come-first-serve basis. 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. Floating the Boise River is a fun and easy way to spend a hot summer day in Idaho! approximately 2-3 hours The float takes approximately 2-3 hours (about 6 miles). Get more stories delivered right to your email. About BoiseDevContact: [emailprotected]Privacy policy | Terms, Margaret Carmel is a BoiseDev reporter focused on the City of Boise, housing, homelessness and growth. 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. The park itself is beautiful, with some of the best wildlife (expect to see anything from deer to bald eagles year-round) and scenery in all of Boise. There will be signs directing you to exit, and if its a busy day you will see everyone else getting out too.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'dearboise_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_1',116,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-dearboise_com-large-mobile-banner-1-0');9 Things to do in Boise, Idaho (for a first-time visitor)Once at Ann Morrison Park, you can find the shuttle and head back to Barber Park.Floating the Boise River is a fun and unique Boise activity and easy for anyone to do. The 2022 Boise River float season will be coming to an end after Labor Day. Floaters enjoy the Boise River during triple-digit temperatures on August 31, 2022. The float itself takes around 1.5 hours to complete. The main Boise River float is from Barber Park to Ann Morrison Park. For Ada County, it costs $125,000 for temporary staffing, an additional $2,500 for uniforms and supplies, $6,000 in janitorial services and $5,000 in park repair. Exit at the pull-out on the South (left-hand) side of the river, right before Ann Morrison Bridge. Find a great set of water shoes that have good traction to keep you from slipping on rocks. By, Empowering Parents grants could shrink to fund private school tuition, Power outage affecting signal in Burley area, Nevada, Colorado, Wyoming and Utah ask USDA to help livestock industry hit hard by winter weather, A Community Service of Boise State University. Hi Jan, I believe as long as its made to float on water you should be fine. Use your feet to push you away from rocks and other obstacles, and let your life jacket work for you. 7341. Also, please use a raft that you can control and that you can paddle away from low-hanging trees and other hazards. Its such a fun experience, but you need to know a few safety tips before you head out. Raft and equipment rentals at Barber Park also . The hotter it gets, the more people youll find on the river. Take a river-appropriate vessel (hint: that novelty swan floaty might not survive the trip). 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. Because the water is controlled and can be much higher or lower throughout the year, those decisions are based on your safety. Just make sure you do your research and are safe before your next Boise River float. They have tubes, deluxe tubes, 2-person kayaks, 4-person rafts, or 6-people rafts. Most people put in at Barber Park and take out at Ann Morrison Park in Boise, Idaho. Rentals cost anywhere from $25 for three hours (for a tube) to $60 for three hours (for a six-person raft). Parking at Barber Park has a seasonal fee and is limited. 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 may need to change your plans, Boise States Abu Kigab went undrafted. You have the choice of parking at Barber Park in Southeast Boise for a $7 parking fee or at Ann Morrison Park for free. Parking costs $7 at Barber Park. 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. If you plan to float the river over the weekend, then its best to arrive early in the day to find parking. The Boise River will officially open for floating season on Monday, according to Ada County Parks and Waterways. Boise River Raft & Tube is open at Barber Park during the float season in Boise. Don't Have an Account? For more information on floating the Boise River, including the rental and shuttle schedule, click here. The opening date coincides with the first. All in all, it's pretty chill. Once at Ann Morrison Park, you can find the shuttle and head back to Barber Park. Once on dry land, deflate your tube and pack it back to your car. You'll enter the river at Barber Park, then float past beautiful trees and greenery on your way down to Ann Morrison Park. The Boise River is never "closed" but is always a float-at-your-own-risk endeavor. Floating the Boise River is more popular than ever and the City of Boise is hoping for some changes to accommodate demand. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. A Boise police spokeswoman said the department has not made an arrest in the case of a person jumping off the Baybrook bridge and landing on floaters below. Navigating the Boise River during float season can be safe for the whole family if you follow a few simple guidelines. You blink your eyes open to the clear blue sky as you hear the river getting louder ahead. They have tubes, deluxe tubes, 2-person kayaks, 4-person rafts, or 6-people rafts. Floaters should not tie their rafts together, and should always be aware of hazards on the river, he said. 1509. Learn more about rental equipment for floating the Boise River here. Contact her at, New guided raft tours hit the Boise River. The biggest change to the Boise River floating experience is the closure of the Barber Park air . Thank you! Enjoy discovering all of the unique things to do in Boise for couples after eating at one of the best places to eat in Boise. The flow in the Boise River is decreasing to about 1,550 cubic feet per second by the weekend, the level considered safe for floating the river by Ada County officials.