Can you swim in the Boise River?

There are so many attractions and parks that line the Boise River Greenbelt, each offering a variety of recreation activities, here are a few to check out! The perfect place for swimming, picnicking, fishing, boating, biking, and more. Hop on the river and take a float, or stay and play at the park.

How clean is Boise River?

Boise River near Parma, Idaho. For decades, the lower Boise River downstream of Lucky Peak Reservoir has been highly enriched with phosphorus. Too much of a good thing, the high concentrations of phosphorus create a cycle of excessive plant growth, decreased oxygen for fish, and even algal blooms.

Can you swim in Boise River?

Swimming the Boise River

You've got to keep an eye out for currents, rapids, rafters, and who-knows-what you might find underwater. ⚠️ On Float the Boise's map, you'll notice there aren't any flagged safety hazards outside the commonly floated six-mile stretch.

Does the Boise River have leeches?

That river is scary lots of snapping turtles. Super sketchy river They have leeches too !

Is Boise River safe to float?

The Boise River is always a “float-at-your-own-risk” activity, and it is never deemed completely safe to float.

Water advocate completes Boise River swim

Are life jackets required to float the Boise River?

Wear a properly fitted Personal Flotation Device (PFD) at all times when you are in or near the river. It is mandatory for kids 14 and under. Wear protective footwear and proper clothing to lower the chances of possible injury. Never float the river alone.

How deep is the Boise River?

How deep is the water and how cold is it? The depth of the river along the 6-mile float stretch varies from around 2 to around 15 feet, said Kelly Bridges with the Bureau of Reclamation. Even if the water is shallow, it's still moving fast and can knock you off your feet, so be mindful.

Is there fish in the Boise River?

The Boise River offers miles of fishing in one of the finest urban trout rivers in the country. Wild trout and stocked hatchery rainbow and brown trout are abundant.

How long can you float the Boise River?

The park has a raft and tube rental and a shuttle bus service. The float takes approximately 2-3 hours (about 6 miles).

Does Boise have snakes?

Situated near the northwestern United States, Idaho has many mountains and forests ideal for snakes, even around the Boise area. Despite this, there aren't as many different snake species in Idaho as there are in some eastern states.

Can you kayak down the Boise River?

There is no shortage of floating device options available to take down the Boise River. If it can safely float, you can take it. This means any size raft, tube, paddleboard, kayak, or some Boise favorites are blow-up mattresses, inflatable unicorns, or (funny watercraft here).

Is the Boise River open to float in 2025?

Ada County Parks & Waterways, Boise Parks and Recreation and Boise Fire are excited to announce the official float season on the Boise River starts this Friday, June 20, 2025.

How cold does the Boise River get?

The Boise River is a natural fast moving waterway subject to sometime unpredictable currents and occasional branches. Floating devices meant for a swimming pool are not the best choice when floating the river. Also, the water is extremely cold – generally around 51-55 degrees.

Can dogs swim in the Boise River?

Barber Park is known for the starting point when you float the Boise River in the summer. It also has some nice trails and access to the river to let your dog swim in slow and shallow areas. Barber Park also has picnic areas and grassy space to be able to relax and enjoy some fresh air with your pooch!

What are the three most commonly caught fish in the Boise River?

The Boise River is also a popular destination for fishing, with rainbow trout, brown trout, and smallmouth bass being the most commonly caught fish. The river is stocked regularly with fish, and there are several access points for anglers.

Is Boise water good?

We collaborate with Boise's drinking water provider Veolia, plus the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality and the Idaho Department of Water Resources to keep up with changes to water quality standards. Our drinking water tests below the EPA's drinking water standard of four parts per trillion for PFAS.

Is it safe to float the Boise River?

Know Before You Go: Be Aware of River Conditions

During a typical Boise River Float Season, flows range between 500-1,500 cubic feet per second (cfs). Higher river flows increase the risk associated with floating and require more advanced planning and active paddling to successfully navigate hazards on the Boise River.

Can you paddle board the Boise River?

The most relaxing and best way to experience the beauty of Boise is by paddling down the Boise River. This is one of the most popular SUPing and floating trips in Southwest Idaho, and for good reason!

How clean is the Boise River?

Portions of the Boise River do not meet water quality standards established by the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality. The levels of sediment, bacteria and phosphorus in the river harm fish and other aquatic organisms and have a negative impact on recreation.

Will a life jacket keep you afloat if you can't swim?

It is rated to keep you afloat but doesn't necessarily guarantee keeping your head above water during unconsciousness. Almost all recreational PFDs are rated this way. To answer your question, yes, it will keep you above water but I definitely recommend learning how to swim if you're going to be around water.

What is the greenbelt in Boise?

The Boise River Greenbelt is one of Boise's most beloved parks. The 29-mile tree-lined pathway follows the north and south sides of the Boise River through the heart of the city and provides scenic views, wildlife habitat and pedestrian access to many of Boise's popular riverside parks.

Do you have to wear a life jacket on a kayak in Idaho?

Persons 14 years old and under must wear a life jacket while underway. All vessel operators must have a whistle. Consider attaching it to your life jacket.

Does Boise have a rat problem?

Rats are one of the most common pest problems in Boise, Idaho.

What is the most poisonous snake in Idaho?

Rattlesnakes are colored to help them camouflage against the rocky ground where they live. Looking like rocks and dirt is a great way for rattlesnakes to protect themselves and sneak up on prey. Rattlesnakes are the only dangerous snakes in Idaho. They use venom to kill their prey.