Lisa is a top Idaho Realtor and creator of WeKnowBoise.com. For convenience, rented equipment is returned at Ann Morrison Park. 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. All in all, its pretty chill. Everyone should wear life jackets, but its mandatory for kids 14 and under. -Do not float while under the influence of alcohol. 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. 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. Shuttle ridership is way up and Boise Parks and Recreation Director Doug Holloway says that reflects the difficulty of parking at Barber Park. St. Luke's Health System in Boise is seeking a Flex Registered Nurse (RN) to join our Urologic Oncology team. This sends people into the nearby neighborhood to find spaces, which has resulted in complaints of traffic and other disturbances. BOISE, Idaho Ada County Parks and Waterways announced Friday evening that the 2022 Boise River float season will begin Monday, June 27. per group (up to 2) Boise River Guided Rafting, Swimming and Wildlife Tour. Sign In, Boises Best Trail Hikes for All Skill Levels, Classic Boise: 19 Things That Get to the Heart of Living in Boise. Now its performing a major concert, Vote for the Treasure Valley wrestlers of the week (Feb. 20 to 26), Idaho has one of the hardest-to-book campsites in U.S. Its location may surprise you, Ironman athlete with Down syndrome hoping to inspire others, 5 camping trends of 2023: More campers, more money, more problems, Dont forget to bring a Nomadix towel on your outdoor excursions, Grab snowshoes, seek winter charms at the new Annette Lake Sno-Park, 1,004 laps and counting: Woman building on Manitou Incline record. One of the (solutions) is to really emphasize that at Ann Morrison park we have 1,300 parking spaces, Holloway said. Here are some rules for floating the Boise River (from Ada County, Idaho): The float itself takes around 1.5 hours to complete. The float itself takes around 1.5 hours to complete. Two other permanent restrooms are readily accessible during the float: one in Julia Davis Park and the other in Ann Morrison. There are public bathrooms at both Barber Park and Ann Morrison Park, so be sure to use them before getting into the water. Youll need cash for the shuttle, so be sure to have some on you. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. 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. 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. Its been another record-breaking summer on the Boise River. -Dont tie tubes together. Boise River opens for floating, tips to stay safe. The Boise River Greenbelt is 25 miles and runs along the Boise River through downtown Boise. 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. 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). Floating the Boise River is a fun and easy way to spend a hot summer day in Idaho! Monday was the final day to float the Boise River from Barber Park to Ann Morrison Park for the 2022 Boise River Float season. The general rule of thumb for floating is if you dont want it to get wet, dont bring it. Parking costs $7 at Barber Park. 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. BOISE, Idaho . 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. 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. The float typically lasts about 2 hours. How Fast Is Boise River flowing? Why do people float this particular stretch of river? First responders intervened in about 115 incidents on the river this summer, according to a Boise Fire Department spokeswoman. I wouldnt recommend taking very young children or babies with you. All in all, it's pretty chill. Boise Fire Dive Team makes 14 rescue assists on first day of river float season On the first day of the 2022 Boise River float season, the Boise Fire Department Dive Team made 14. 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 . Best Hotels & Resorts in Idaho: 15 Amazing Places to Stay, This Enchanting And Historic Town In Idaho Is The Perfect Day Trip Destination, The Breakfast Dishes At This Hot-Rod-Themed Spot In Idaho Will Accelerate Your Taste Buds, This Rustic Restaurant In Idaho Serves Up Heaping Helpings Of Country Cooking, 5 Lazy Rivers in Idaho That Are Perfect for Tubing on a Summers Day, The Best Tubing River In The Country Is Right Here In Idaho And Its A Blast, With A Swimming Beach And A Waterslide, Eagle Island State Park In Idaho Is A Great Summer Hangout. This typically happens around mid-June or early July. She attended Northwest Nazarene University and is Boise born and raised. Slick roads? 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. You can also purchase a tube or raft at many local stores, anywhere from REI and Target to even Walgreens sometimes. Operating Hours . 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. The window normally begins around June and ends in August or September. Social distancing protocols also will be implemented in Barber Parks rental area and on the shuttle buses. By: Christina Lords - February 28, 2023 5:51 pm. 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. WELCOME TO BOISE RIVER RAFT & TUBE. 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. Have you heard about floating the Boise River during the hot summer months in Idaho? All rentals are on a first-come-first-serve basis. A woosh of clean, clear water spills into your lap. All rights reserved. Don't Have an Account? You blink your eyes open to the clear blue sky as you hear the river getting louder ahead. You may decide to indulge after a few hours on the river. 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. Rescue crews were nearby and cut the person loose. Whether buying or selling a home, we provide full-service real estate solutions dedicated to helping our clients achieve their goals. 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. All you need is a tube or raft, a cooler with some drinks and snacks, and a life jacket. -Know early signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and dehydration in hot weather. The landscape is constantly changing so be prepared for new obstacles. $59.78. Please arrive early or plan to park in Ann Morrison Park and. Boise River Raft & Tube also operates a shuttle service between Barber Park and Ann Morrison Park. Airports, EVs, roads, buses, more: $1.7 billion in infrastructure dollars pour into Idaho. 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. Given how easy it is to float the river, your hardest decision may be deciding what time to go. State law requires you to have life jackets for you and everyone in your party. Monday was the final day to float the Boise River from Barber Park to Ann Morrison Park for the 2022 Boise River Float season. In 2022 the fee was $3 per person and they let you bring your raft or tube with you. 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. There are a number of things that go into the decision to open the Boise River. The trip is about 6 miles and takes 2-3 hours. 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. 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? That way you can change into them once you get out of the river. 5,485 were here. Theres a shuttle that runs between the two parks and offers rides to all floaters during the season. That way once you get out at Ann Morission you can go to your car for towels and dry clothes. Its a great way to spend a hot day, and it can be really inexpensive. But I want to emphasize, were not lifeguards and were not staged at specific locations, Roberts told media at a media briefing Wednesday morning. Life vests are required for children 14 and younger, but Ada County Parks and Waterways recommends that they be worn by all floaters regardless of age or swimming skill. There will be signs directing you to exit, and if its a busy day you will see everyone else getting out too. There are three small drops in the river and several curves that require light navigation. Brad Little thanked Hummel Architects for donating its original Idaho Capitol drawings and paintings to the Idaho State Archives, a division of the Idaho State Historical Society. We want everyone to have fun and stay safe. Ada County Parks & Waterways is also seeing an increase in people using the Boise River. Police say the person who jumped has still not been identified. Everyone should wear life jackets, but its mandatory for kids 14 and under. Pack towels and dry clothes to stash in your car. Orientation Leaders like Colby or Britney Perez, a senior studying criminal justice from right here in Boise, play a massive role in helping new Broncos acclimate to campus. 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. Floating the Boise River is more popular than ever and the City of Boise is hoping for some changes to accommodate demand. 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. That incident sent two people to the hospital. Floating season runs mid-June through Labor Day, seven days a week. There is a new pick-up and drop-off zone at the park to accommodate floaters new this summer, as well. Originally published in Jun 2020, updated Jun 2021. Barber Park used to offer an air fill station, but thats no longer the case. Ada County Parks and Waterwaysannounced Friday evening that the 2022 Boise River float season will begin Monday, June 27. 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. By Jordan Rodriguez -Take breaks. Parking at Barber Park has a seasonal fee and is limited. If you plan on bringing your own tube or raft, be prepared to bring your own inflation equipment. The quietest times are mornings and early afternoons. Before you know it, youll be wondering why you didnt try floating sooner! Your email address will not be published. approximately 500 cubic feet per second According to USACE, the Boise River flow is currently set at approximately 500 cubic feet per second (cfs) at the Glenwood Bridge. Real-time updates and all local stories you want right in the palm of your hand. If you feel cold, simply pull over and get out of the water. approximately 2-3 hours The float takes approximately 2-3 hours (about 6 miles). Please arrive early or plan to park in Ann Morrison Park and take a shuttle. Many people prefer to park at Ann Morrison Park to then take the shuttle to Barber 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. About BoiseDevContact: [emailprotected]Privacy policy | Terms, Margaret Carmel is a BoiseDev reporter focused on the City of Boise, housing, homelessness and growth. 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. If you fall into the water while Boise River rafting, stay calm. Because the water is controlled and can be much higher or lower throughout the year, those decisions are based on your safety. The parking lot at Barber Park can fill up quickly on busy weekends. The Boise River is never "closed" but is always a float-at-your-own-risk endeavor. -Avoid low-hanging branches. Find a great set of water shoes that have good traction to keep you from slipping on rocks. How long does it take to float Boise River? Especially if you are floating in a tube. Know about the dangers of hypothermia and how to deal with it. You will get out of the Boise River at Ann Morrison Park. The park has a raft and tube rental and a shuttle bus service. While people can still float the Boise River,. I would reach out to the contact on this page to make sure: https://adacounty.id.gov/parksandwaterways/float-the-boise-river/. per adult. Floating the Boise River has been a long-time tradition here in the Treasure Valley, but with population growth and the heat, every summer sets a new record for the most floaters in a season. . I suspect that will be the case over the weekend. Get first-in-line Boise area listing updates, save favorites & much more. 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. The biggest change to the Boise River floating experience is the closure of the Barber Park air . In the span of five and a half hours Monday afternoon, Boise Fire's Dive Team had 14 rescue assists with four of those being life-threatening/lifesaving rescues. Parks and Waterways announcement also means starting Monday,the Barber Park fee parking kiosk, equipment rentals, shuttle service, and snack shack will all be up and running. There is a dam just after the park, which could endanger your life so get out where you are supposed to. Boise State Public Radio News | Youll also find that food trucks often frequent Ann Morrison Park. The park is perfect for larger gatherings, like family reunions. -Before you go, make a plan for parking. There is a dam just after the park, which could endanger your life so get out where you are supposed to. 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. The current river flow is around 770 cubic feet per second (cfs) but was near 1300 cfs for much of the summer. 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. This story has been updated with additional information from Boise Police. The main Boise River float is from Barber Park to Ann Morrison Park. Dont be too cool to wear a personal floatation device, especially if you cant swim well. If you dont have your own tube or raft, you can rent one. Do not forget the holy grail of floating gear: a portable pump. The official float season (with available shuttle service, rentals and paid parking) ends Monday. 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. They typically congregate around the best jump spots. Located in southwestern Idaho, the Boise River is a great place to float during the summer months. Look for the signs to exit the river on the left before the big bridge at Ann Morrision. Or, bring a wicking towel with you and stash it in your dry bag. Snow Much Fun: Pass Options, Rentals and Lessons at Bogus Basin, 2023 - Visit Boise | All rights reserved. https://adacounty.id.gov/parksandwaterways/float-the-boise-river/, Was Boise always Idahos capital? Once youve secured your rental, hop in the river right there at Barber Park and enjoy the float. Updated June 24, 2022 6:46 PM. This tube is a popular pick for Boise river floaters. Example video title will go here for this video. Do not float the river if you do not know how to swim, or dont feel confident in swift water. When you arrive at Barber Park, either by parking there or by taking the shuttle from Ann Morrison Park, you will find the rental station. Make sure you know how to swim, and that everyone in your party is prepared to get wet. Holloway said the citys parking enforcement staff and Boise Police Department officers will be patrolling the area outside the park. 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. The Boise River is a unique and multi-seasonal natural feature of the city of Boise. 2023 City of Boise. Many floaters may not have realized the river was running higher than usual this summer. The Boise River 2022 summer float-season is open 6/27/2022. Parking at Ann Morrison Park is free, unlike Barber Park. Please look for no parking signs, if you park in an unauthorized area it could result in ticketing or towing. So many people who frequent the Boise River will have tubes that look like these and small portable inflators like these that they stow in a wet bag and take down the river with them. Float the Boise River from Ada County's Barber Park to Ann Morrison Park in Boise, Idaho. There are a number of rules when floating the Boise River, and its so important to follow them. 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. For more information on floating the Boise River, including the rental and shuttle schedule, click here. 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. It fluctuates throughout the year between 3 feet to 7 feet, depending on the water flow and the area of the river. 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. At the end of the float, you will drive back to Barber Park to pick up the second vehicle. PLEASE READ OUR DISCLAIMER FOR MORE INFO.