Southern Idaho Adventure Guide

LEAVE NO TRACE

C O N T E N T S 1

Learn a little bit about Leave No Trace and why you need to care.

SOME THINGS TO HELP YOU ALONG THE WAY

Learn what essentials you need when heading out Plus, a list of apps to download so you too can make sure to find that trailhead or camping site with ease

CLOSE TO BOISE

A detailed look at outdoor adventures that are in Boise or just on the outskirts by 5-ish miles

SEMI-CLOSE TO BOISE

Adventures close to Boise but that need a little more travel - up to 100 miles

FARTHER FROM BOISE

C O N T E N T S 7 9

Adventures over 100 miles away from Boise but still close enough for a fun day trip or a weekend getaway

PERMITS GALORE

A guide to the things you need a permit for and how to get them Whether it's for parking or getting out in the water, we got you covered

When it comes to the outdoors there are lots of rules Rules on how to stay safe, rules on how to prepare for emergencies, and even rules on what to do with your dogs off leash Depending on the activity and the equipment involved there are tons of general rules that need to be followed But none are more crucial than the importance of Leave No Trace Let's explore each one in detail so you can get out and have fun while being safe at the same time

Plan ahead and prepare

Research the are you are going into so you know what to expect Make sure you are prepared for extreme circumstances such as rain, snow or extreme sun if the season warrants it If you can help it, break larger groups into smaller ones and avoid using the area during times of high use/traffic I know this sometimes can’t be avoided but it s at least worth taking a shot at it

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least 20 feet away from a water source and keep areas as small as possible to minimize the impact on the area If the trail is muddy, go through the mud, not around, and stay single file Avoid muddy trails when possible so as not to make the trail worse with divots

Dispose of waste properly

What ever you “pack in” you MUST “pack out” Meaning whatever you travel with must leave with you If you are planning on camping near water, you must go potty at least 200 feet away from the water, dig a hole for your waste at least 6-8 inches deep and cover it well to disguise of it

This includes your pet’s waste When doing dishes, also make sure you are at least 200 feet from the water source and are using a biodegradable soap.

Leave what you find

Travel and camp on durable surfaces

A durable surface is defined as an “established trail or campsite, rock, gravel, dry grass, or snow When camping or hiking, make sure to stay on these surfaces to minimize damage to the area you are staying When backpacking to an unknown place, do your best to find out what you will be staying on if you can

Asking your local Forest Station will be a great way to find out what kind of terrain you are dealing with Try and camp at

By preserving the area you are in, it will save it for future visitors and generations to come. If you want to remember what something looked like take a picture of it rather than taking it with you This is something especially hard for children

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Minimize campfire impacts

Campfires can leave lasting effects on an area when not properly taken care of Obviously fire can leave lasting damages if it gets out of hand but it can also leave other unwanted effects on the backcountry Only burn fires where you have been instructed it is ok to do so, use fire rings where available and only use the firewood in the area when you can help it When putting out your fire, make sure you have spread the fire thin and let all the coals die completely before leaving it unattended Try and keep your fire small so it doesn’t get out of hand Using a lamp for light and a camp stove for cooking can eliminate the need for fire altogether in most seasons

Respect Wildlife

Never approach wildlife, feed wildlife or interact with wildlife It is appropriate to look at them from afar and even take pictures but stay away! The animals are wild and it is not appropriate for you to bother them in their daily routine or change their diet It can be unhealthy for them on multiple levels. When in an area that might have bears or other wildlife like moose, or deer, keep your food out of reach and secured tightly so they cannot get into it Prepare to protect yourself when you go into the backcountry or campgrounds where you might run into these types of animals Do your research before you go Protecting yourself from a moose is very different than protecting yourself from a rattlesnake, a wolf, or a mountain lion And for that matter

protecting yourself from a grizzly bear is different than protecting yourself from a black bear Know your wildlife and prepare to watch but not touch and protect yourself when necessary

Be considerate of other visitors

This might go without saying but when you're outdoors in nature, everyone else there that day is trying to do the same thing Being considerate of others by not being loud, blocking paths, and being rude is a big deal Try to camp away from others when you can and when you can’t, be respectful of your noise level In campgrounds that house a lot of people, this may be hard, but try and be considerate of the campgrounds “quiet hours” at night Each place is different but being respectful of others goes a long way This makes it more enjoyable for you and more enjoyable for everyone else

Lastly, I want to touch on something else

These days, there are tons of ways to enjoy the outdoors Whether it’s by foot, bike, four-wheeling or paddle, there are countless ways to “be” in nature Above all, Leave No Trace is a list of principals to help guide us in respecting the outdoors and what it has to offer We need to treat it well so we can enjoy it for many more lifetimes and we need to teach our kids to respect it so that they may too enjoy it for a lifetime, while learning to take care of it themselves For more info: www lnt org

First Aid Kit

You never know when you are going to be in need of a bandaid or a Tylenol tablet. Bring a lightweight, yet full kit to help you when you need it most

Knife/Multi Tool

Bringing a knife could just save your life It is handy in so many circumstances I can't even list them A multi tool may help with other needs so consider that as well

Navigation

There are many ways to navigate through the backcountry And depending on where you want to go will depend on what you need to bring. Whether it's a map/compass, GPS device or other item, know your equipment and know how to use it well

Headlamp/Light

Nothing is more awful than not having light in the dark. Scary things happen there! Bring it in case you accidentally get stuck in the dark

Sun Protection

Don't get fried! Bring sunglasses, sunblock, a hat or a lightweight long sleeved item to protect yourself from the scorching rays of the sun or bright reflections from the snow

Ability for fire

Bringing fire isn't possible, but making sure you know how to make a fire when in need and bringing the tools to help you with that is so important When going on longer trips consider bringing a stove in case you may need to cook your own food

Apps to help you get around

Alltrails: hiking locations and how to get there

Outbound: log your adventures by what you want

to do and what you have done already!

The Dyrt: camping locations and reservations

Geocaching: great excuse to get out and find some treasures

Hiking Project: Log those miles and find your next trail

Recreation gov: reserve your camping spots here

My Altitude: check how high you are from sea level

MTB project: log your biking miles and find your next trail ride

Gaia GPS: detailed GPS maps for backcountry locations

Shelter

I know what you're thinking How do I bring shelter with me and make it light weight and easy? Well, something like a jacket can be used as shelter, or even a lightweight emergency blanket Think about items that can be used for multiple purposes

Extra Water

We all know that water can get very heavy very fast But when we are working hard in the hot (OR COLD) weather, obviously water is one of the most important things to consider bringing Think about bringing more than you think you need and if you are going out on large trips or backpacking, consider bringing a water filter with you to avoid the early weight of water

Extra Food

Nothing is better than a snack when you're hiking Not only does it help kick your craving when you are hungry, it gives you added calories and energy when you likely will need it most Consider bringing lighter weight items like protein bars, tuna packets, granola bars, beef jerky and dried fruits Nuts are also a great option

Extra Clothes

Depending on the time of year and the seasons, Idaho can get hit with a lot of different weather And because we never know what is going to come next, we have to be prepared for anything. Wearing layers is important and bringing rain gear is top of the list Unless you prefer to get wet

ALL THE MUST HAVE ITEMS YOU NEED BEFORE YOU HEAD TO THE OUTDOORS

CLOSE TO BOISE

Boise outdoor adventures within 5 miles to explore.

Zoo Boise

Our little Boise Zoo is really incredible for it's size It has so much to offer in terms of education and sights/animals to see as well as play structures For more info visit: www.zooboise.org

Boise River Greenbelt

Boise is known for its extensive paved greenbelt Walk, ride or jog between all our 12 beautiful scenic parks along the river To see the full map visit: www.cityofboise.org

Floating the Boise River

With the Boise River running right through town, it is a must do every summer to take a trip down the river Guides and directions can be seen here: www.adacounty.id.gov

Skateboarding Parks

There are several skateboarding parks within the city limits of Boise as well as just outside Experience them all to see which one is your favorite

Ridge to Rivers- Boise Foothills

The Boise foothills are expansive and yet so close to town They provide miles and miles of hiking, biking and 4 wheeling opportunities To check when optimal times are for specific activities and a full map visit: www.ridgetorivers.org

Quinns Pond/Esther Simplot Park

Within our little city an amazing place abounds with places for little kids to play, folks to paddle and great access to the Boise Greenbelt To learn more visit: www.cityofboise.org

Boise Whitewater Park

Surfing in Boise? What is this you say? YES! This park has some sweet areas for surfing at all levels For more info and to see the webcam in action visit: www.boisewhitewaterpark.com

Boise Bike Park

Want to get some air while biking? Consider trying out the bike park right in the middle of town adjacent to the foothills For more info visit: www cityofboise org

Archery in Boise

If you are a fan of archery, try your hand at one of our parks to practice One park has targets and another has foam animals to practice shooting at For more info visit: www.cityofboise.org or www.idfg.idaho.gov

Lucky Peak State Park

We are so lucky to have a state park so close to town Offering year long activities for water or trail fun, Lucky Peak is a great family outing no matter when you decide to come For more info visit: www.parksandrecreation.idaho.gov

Rock Climbing at Black Cliffs

If climbing rocks is what you enjoy, look no further Boise offers several places within a short distance of town to hitch up and get up (Also several indoor places as well!) visit: www.totallyboise.com

“If happiness is the goal, and it should be, then adventures should be top priority ”

~Richard Branson

SEMICLOSE TO BOISE

Short drives within 100 miles of Boise

Eagle Island State Park

From hiking to swimming to paddling to winter sledding, Eagle Island has it all With frisbee golf and even navigation trails, you won't be sorry for visiting this place! For more info visit: www.parksandrecreation.idaho.gov

Eagle Bike Park

Black Canyon Reservoir

Nestled just above Emmett, Black Canyon offers lots of fun summer recreation activities from boating to paddling to swimming There are 4 parks in the area that offer different amenities For more info and to purchase annual passes or make reservations, visit the Bureau of Reclamation at: www.usbr.gov

Lake Lowell Park

Not to be forgotten, Lake Lowell is a lake that offers many amenities to its users as well from boating to swimming to fishing For more info visit: www.canyonco.org

Idaho City

Hiking

With several places to hike within 100 miles of boise, there is no way I could list them all Each offer a specific trait that is worth seeing For more details visit: www.alltrails.com

Fishing

Waterways are abundant in the Treasure Valley and beyond Your job is to figure out where to go and what fish to catch Rivers and lakes are abundant here For more details visit the Fish and Game website at: www.idfg.idaho.gov

Camping

Whether you choose to boondock, camp for two weeks, reserve your space or go on the cuff, Idaho has literally hundreds of camping areas that will serve you For more info visit: www.visitidaho.org or www.recreation.gov

Bogus Basin

At the top of the mountain, you can't miss the opportunity of a lifetime to cycle, hike, ski, sled and much more For more info visit: www.bogusbasin.org

Lake Cascade State Park

A short drive out of the city and you get yet another lake to serve you interests of boating, floating, swimming and camping Don't forget that snow in the winter here makes for a good sledding or snowshoeing spot! visit: www.parksandrecreation.idaho.gov

Bruneau Dunes State Park

Who know sand dunes would be so much fun? Other than offering camping, you can rent sand sleds at the visitor center and even think about flying a kite It can get very windy out there! For more info visit: www.parksandrecreation.idaho.gov

The Owyhee Mountains

The Owyhees, standing alone out in the middle of nowhere it seems, is still quite close to town Visited by hikers, bikers, horseback riders and ATV riders, this range is extensively gorgeous With many rock formations and canyons, it is delight all year round While it can get muddy in the winter, an one must be careful of getting your vehicle stuck, staying on the main roads will guarantee some fun Don't forget to visit Silver City in the summer when it is accessible! For more info visit: www.visitidaho.org

White Water Rafting

Taking into consideration how many rivers we have here in Idaho, you would think rafting would be popular! And you would be right Rafting down the Payette River using a guide or doing it yourself (if you have the right gear and knowhow) is the best medicine for a hot summer day For details visit: www.visitidaho.org

FARTHER FROM BOISE

Box Canyon Nature Reserve/Thousand Springs State Park

Until you see it, you won't know the vastness of its beauty To see the crystal blue waters you have to trek to the bottom of the canyon! For more details visit: www.parksandrecreation.idaho.gov

Craters of the Moon National Preserve

One of 6 national parks we have here in Idaho, it's a must see for its beauty Every season provides different activities For more info see: www.nps.gov

City of Rocks National Reserve

Another National Park in Idaho, this area serves as another all season getaway for many activities all year long For more info visit: www.nps.gov

Rafting the Salmon River

Seemingly farther away- but not quite is yet another option for rafting With several places to enter the river, you can either guide yourself with the right gear or hire a tour company! For more info visit: www.visitidaho.org

Lake Payette

A short drive out of the city and you get yet another lake to serve you interests of boating, floating, swimming and camping Just next to Ponderosa State Park, there is not a shortage of activities here And don't forget that snow in the winter here makes for a good sledding or snowshoeing spot! visit: www.discovermccall.com

Redfish Lake

For beautiful views of the Sawtooth Mountains and some amazing camping and recreation, Redfish Lake is nationally known for its amenities For more info visit: www.redfishlake.com

Shoshone Falls

Just inside Twin Falls, and along the Snake River, this waterfall is a must see Whether you are paddling there on the water or seeing it from above, the water is fine! For more info visit: www.visitidaho.org

Backpacking in the Sawtooth Mountains/ 7 Devils Mountains/White Cloud Mountains

For some folks, being in the middle of crowded camping areas isn't for them Take your hiking to the next level by backpacking through the mountains Idaho sure has some beautiful backcountry and you can't go wrong Always take safety precautions when heading out into the inner mountains For details visit: www.visitidaho.org

State Parks Passport

In Idaho, much like other states, there is a fee to park at state parks. That is understandable because we know those fees go towards things the parks need to stay afloat as well as to maintain all the nice things we like about each park Idaho makes it easy on us though in that when you register your car in the state of Idaho, you can pay just $10 per year for a state park sticker that allows you access to all the state parks all year long If you don't want to do that (maybe you don't like stickers on your car??) then you can also pay the fee for parking there daily Even if you don't think you will get out to the parks that often in the year to make it worth it- the parks sticker is still a good cause to help support our state parks

Consider buying a sticker anyways These stickers are based on the individual vehicle you are taking into the parks so take that into consideration when thinking which cars/RVs/Motorcycles to buy for

Park and Ski Pass

There are several locations in Idaho that, while not state parks, still need maintenance and upkeep in the winter From mid November to late April, you will need to purchase a pass that allows you to park at these locations Your fees pay for plowing roads and trail improvements These trails are all specifically designed for you to snowshoe and ski in the backcountry You can choose what area your fees will help support (if you have a favorite!) and your fees can also be used in the Oregon Park and Ski Locations Bonus!

Invasive Species Sticker

One law in Idaho says that any motorized or nonmotorized boat or water craft has to have a invasive species sticker This fee helps provide funds to prevent species that are invasive to our waters from taking over

For more information on these topics travel on over to the website for Idaho Parks and Recreation at www.parksandrecreation.idaho.gov