What a world we live in…. Idaho has long been recognized for world class everything outdoors. From hunting, fishing, paddling, skiing, climbing – everything! When travellers on their way to these world class outdoor venues stop in Boise they don’t always see what we do. They typically get into a car and speed off to McCall and Sun Valley.

Here is a little of what they may not see – all of which sits within 25 minutes of the North End:

Rock Climbing – from Stack Rock to Table Rock and up the Boise River Canyon above Diversion Dam. There are sheer cliff faces, technical climbing and free climbing opportunities for the best.

Fly Fishing – The Boise River from Barber to Eagle has many great spots for fishing of all kinds. Trout and other native species are thriving even in downtown Boise between Boise State University and Julia Davis Park.

Paddling & Surfing – The Boise River is best know for the Barber Park to Ann Morrison Park stretch. Imagine uncrowded waters for flatwater canoeing or kayaking above Barber Dam or in Quinn’s Pond. Quinn’s Pond is a lake-sized body of water within 5 minutes of downtown.

And within a 5 minute walk from Quinn’s pond there is the excitement of the Boise River Park (video). Idaho River Sports has more information and over 20 years of experience. They can help with shuttles and rentals and more!

Mountain Biking – Camels Back Park is the center of the mountain biking for much of the Treasure Valley. The Ridges to Rivers system stretches for miles along the Boise Front. Of course it’s always nice to have Hyde Park waiting for a cool drink after a hard ride!

Road Cycling – Once the finishing stage of the Women’s Challenge, the North End has long been the gathering place for cyclists who run out through the valley and back along winding roads like Hill Road that finishes, like the HP Women’s Challenge used to, in Hyde Park. We’re inspired by our own 3-time Olympic Gold Medalist Kristin Armstrong of course. Her story of overcoming illness and adversity is amazing and Northenders go with her matra “because I can” almost everyday.

Check out the opportunities to get outside and enjoy the North End and the nation’s best urban adventures!