Best Neighborhoods for Outdoor Recreationists

In Boise, outdoor adventure isn’t just a pastime, it's a way of life. With the backdrop of the Boise Foothills and the Boise River winding through the city, Boise encourages a vibrant outdoor lifestyle that beckons adventurers, nature lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. These neighborhoods are perfect for those who crave a life intertwined with the outdoors, offering easy access to hiking trails, cycling routes, river activities, and more.

North End, Highlands and Somerset

• Hyde Park. Just minutes from these neighborhoods, Hyde Park is the perfect place to spend a morning or afternoon exploring. Stop by Java for breakfast, Parilla Grill for lunch, and Hyde Park Pub and Grill for dinner. Or, grab coffee at Hyde Perk (known for its special seasonal drinks) and wander around the local boutiques and stores that give Hyde Park its authentic feel. 

• Neighborhood walkability. All three of these North Boise neighborhoods feature high walkability, making it easy to leave your car behind and walk where you need to go.

• Cycling on Hill Road. Beloved by road cyclists, Hill Road is a popular bike route with rolling hills and beautiful views. 

• Foothills Trails. Located right next to the foothills, these North Boise neighborhoods have close access to the Ridge to Rivers trail system with biking, hiking, running, and equestrian trails.

• Camel's Back Park. Camel’s Back Park is an iconic Boise park, featuring a large playground, grass area, and a large hill with stunning views of Boise at the top. Camel’s Back also has a variety of hiking and biking trails which begin at the base of the hill. 

• Proximity to Bogus Basin. Bogus Basin is a recreationist's paradise all year round. With hiking and biking trails with chairlift access in the summer and acres of downhill skiing in the winter, there is always an activity to do at Bogus!

Hidden Springs

• Hiking Trails. Hidden Springs neighborhood has access to miles of scenic trails for runners, bikers, and hikers to enjoy.
• Neighborhood walkability. This master-planned neighborhood has sidewalks and well-connected streets making it easy to walk instead of drive.

• Community pool & fitness center. These amenities offer residents a place to stay active, from leisurely swims to energizing workouts.
• Cycling on Cartwright Road & Seaman's Gulch. Cartwright Road is another popular ride for road cyclists, known for its steep hills and exhilarating downhills. Seaman’s Gulch is a small cluster of trails that wind through sagebrush and feature beautiful views of the foothills.

River Run

• Access to the River/Greenbelt. River Run features close and easy access to the Greenbelt, an iconic paved path that follows the Boise River as it wanders through Boise. This is the perfect spot for running, biking, or walking.

Harris Ranch

• Access to the River/Greenbelt. Harris Ranch is just a minute's walk or run from the 25 miles of paved Greenbelt path alongside the Boise River.

Barber Valley

• Access to the River. Barber Valley is located right next to the Boise River, a beloved recreation spot for flyfishers, paddleboarders, and rafters.

NE Boise & East End

• Access to Fort Boise. Fort Boise contains Old Fort Boise Park, a beautiful public park that has reconstructed buildings and interpretive displays allowing visitors to imagine the lives of early settlers in the Idaho Territory. 
• Access to Table Rock Trails. These neighborhoods have close access to plenty of hiking trails at nearby Table Rock, allowing residents to enjoy Boise’s scenic beauty and natural landscape.
• Natatorium. The Natatorium is a public aquatic center that features a large swimming pool, diving area, and waterslide. This is a beloved summer spot for families, and children love the exhilarating Hydrotube waterslide.
• Warm Springs Golf Course. This public 18-hole championship course is minutes from NE Boise and the East End. Perfect for beginner to intermediate skill levels, Warm Springs offers the chance to work on your game at a high-quality but affordable course.