There’s nothing quite like summer in Idaho. With long days, cool nights, and a calendar packed with outdoor adventure, the season brings the best of everything the state has to offer—from river floats and farmers markets to camping trips and starry nights.
Float Season: A Boise Tradition
Summer in Boise kicks off when river floating season begins—typically from late June through Labor Day. Locals and visitors grab:
- Inner tubes
- Paddleboards
- Rafts
- Inflatable swans and flamingos
The float starts at Barber Park and winds downstream through three splashy drops. Gear rentals, air-filling stations, and shuttle service make it easy to join in. Life jackets are strongly encouraged, as this is a natural river with some debris and swift currents.
So Much to Do (Until After 10 PM!)
With daylight stretching well past 10 p.m., there’s time for it all:
- Early morning hikes or mountain bike rides in the Boise Foothills
- Shopping at local farmers markets
- Spending the day on the water at Quinn’s Pond, Sandy Point, or Lucky Peak
- Camping trips to Cascade Lake, Payette Lake, or Redfish Lake—all just 2–3 hours from Boise
Evenings to Remember
After the heat of the day, Idaho’s cool, clear evenings invite everyone back outside. Summer nights are perfect for:
- Outdoor concerts and music festivals
- Downtown Boise’s First Thursday—with open galleries, food, and music
- Campfires and s’mores under the stars
Whether it’s a spontaneous weekend adventure or a lazy day by the river, summer in Idaho is packed with opportunities to relax, explore, and make memories.
Enjoy the stars of summer—Idaho is waiting.
