I don’t know about you, but I’m so ready to enjoy some warmer weather. Last week gave me a teaser of what spring feels like, and now I’m thinking about what I’m going to do in the spring air during what would usually be our spring break time. Here are 5 1/2 amazing, affordable (or free) things to do near Boise that only require a tank of gas and an adventurous spirit (and proper safety precautions)!
1) Bruneau Sand Dunes
Bruneau Dunes State Park, just 60 miles south of Boise, is home to the tallest freestanding sand dunes in North America, with the highest reaching 470 feet. Hike surrounding trails, climb the dunes and rent (or bring) a sandboard for an exciting trip down. And then plan to stay late enough to stargaze at the public observatory right in the park.
2) Jump Creek
Just 45 miles west of Boise, Jump Creek is a quick ¼ mile hike that takes you right to the bottom of a pretty amazing waterfall.
3) Kirkham Hot Springs
There are all kinds of hot springs within hours of Boise, but Kirkham Hot Springs has to be one of our favorites. It’s just less than two hours away, along the South Fork of the Payette River. A small staircase in the Kirkham campground gets you to soaking pools and steaming waterfalls. It is breathtaking. Don’t forget to pack out what you pack in.
4) Thousand Springs State Park
This is actually a whole network of incredible scenery along the Snake River Canyon south of Boise. Basically, thousands of gallons of water pour out of the side of the canyon from a massive aquifer, creating a series of waterfalls. Take a road trip along the Thousand Springs Scenic Byway and as a bonus, be sure to stop at Shoshone Falls, a 212-foot waterfall on the Snake River near Twin Falls.
5) Hells Canyon
This is a little more of a travel commitment – it’s about 160 miles from Boise – but the views are unbelievably worth the drive. Hells Canyon is the deepest river gorge in North America, and packed full of stuff to see and do.
5 ½) Check in with yourself
You’ve made it halfway through another semester. Hang in there Broncos! You’re doing great. Crush those midterms and give yourself a wellness break for all your hard work.
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