Get Outdoors

Don't Let the Lack of "High Water" Keep You from Visiting this Fall

Looking for some weekend adventure, but want to explore somewhere new? If you are in the Boise area, take the two-hour trek to Shoshone Falls in south-central Idaho's Magic Valley. Located approximately three miles west of the city of Twin Falls, the "Niagra of the West" drops an impressive 212 feet, 45 feet higher than the real Niagra.

Though the most dramatic time of year to visit is in the spring when flows can reach in excess of 20,000 cubic feet per second, the fall and winter bring a different kind of beauty. Striking rock formations and stunning pools reveal themselves only when the water is low.

Lying within the Snake River Canyon, the Falls and surrounding geology is a fascinating scene created over millions of years and is truly one of nature's—and Idaho's—most glorious wonders worthy of visiting any time of year.

Shoshone Falls Park is situated at the bottom of the canyon via a fairly steep and curvy road that is open year-round, except when snow and ice make travel too dangerous. The road is paved and fine for all vehicles. In the fall and winter months, the park is open from dawn to dusk, and there is no charge for access. Picnic areas, overlooks, and portable toilets are accessible all year.

Wear comfortable shoes and plan to take a hike along one of the many trails in and around the Falls. Centennial Trail takes explorers 1.4 miles to the site of Evel Knievel's failed attempt to jump the canyon in 1974. The out-and-back trail is paved and features canyon overlooks.

To get to Shoshone Falls from Boise, travel east on I-84 to US 93/exit 173 south to Twin Falls. Turn east on Falls Ave. E to N 3300 E/Champlin Road and follow the signs.

Be sure to stop at the Twin Falls Visitor Center at the south side of the Perrine Bridge for breathtaking views of the canyon and to pick up a trail map.

Ready to spend some time in the great outdoors? Mountain biking provides an invigorating workout in wide open, natural spaces, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Our real estate agents love to let off some steam at these favorite mountain biking trails, conveniently located in and around Boise. This time of year can be tricky weatherwise, so before you head out, be sure to check trail conditions at the Ridge-to-Rivers website, and please, please stay off muddy trails.

1. Around the Mountain - 10.1 miles
   With its scenic route circling Bogus Basin Ski Resort, Around the Mountain gets high marks from riders as the best all-around trail near Boise homes for sale. Starting near the parking lot of Simplot Lodge, the trail goes up to Pioneer Lodge and back, looping past all the ski runs. Around the Mountain is dog-friendly, well-marked, and offers a ride that's suited for mountain bikers of all experience levels. As a bonus, Around the Mountain connects with a number of other trails so you can have a different ride with every visit.
   
   
2. Ridge Crest - 1.2 miles
   Has your mountain biking experience been limited to multi-use trails, where you share the road with walkers, runners, and skaters? Located in Boise's historic Military Reserve, Ridge Crest is a good introduction to singletrack biking trails. There is a moderate amount of climbing, but the short length and lack of trees and other obstacles make it an ideal course for newbies, kids, and dogs. Want a longer ride? Pair Ridge Crest with Bucktail, a 1.3-mile trail that's also popular with beginners because of its wide, sweeping curves and display of wildflowers.
   
   
3. Sidewinder-Fat Tire Traverse-Freestone Ridge - 3.5 miles
   Need a break from sitting at your desk? Whether you work at home or in an office, these trails are easily accessible, just minutes from downtown Boise. Start off at Camel's Back Park on the aptly-named Sidewinder, which leads to the connecting trail of Fat Tire Traverse. Finish with a blazing sprint down Military Reserve's Freestone Ridge, enjoying its wide-open sightlines. Dogs are welcome on all three legs of the trail.
   
   
4. Lower Hulls Gulch Trail - 2.2 miles
   Ridge to Rivers is a unique network consisting of more than 190 miles of interconnected trails, constructed and maintained by a full-time crew. One section, Lower Hulls Gulch Trail, has achieved classic status among local riders largely due to its descent, which is moderately technical but still allows for some speed. Lower Hulls Gulch also has a sandier composition than many other trails, making it easier to ride during rainy conditions as the ground doesn't get muddy. Note: since this is one of the more heavily-used trails, pedestrians often make up some obstacles. 
   
   
5. The Big Potato - 42 miles
   For serious riders looking for an all-day jaunt, it doesn't get much better than the Big Potato. This 42-mile loop through the Boise foothills, with thick vegetation, numerous obstacles, and elevation approaching 7,000 miles, is for expert riders only, but you'll be rewarded with spectacular views. Be sure to take plenty of food and water, as Simplot Lodge at Bogus Basin is the only place for supplies. Bring Fido along if he's in good shape. 

Boise is a satisfying blend of urban attractions and outdoor activities. If you're buying or selling a home in the area, contact us at Coldwell Banker Tomlinson for assistance from our friendly and knowledgeable real estate agents. 

It's time for snowshoe season once again! This is the perfect year to return to one of your favorite outdoor hobbies or to try snowshoeing for the first time as you explore Boise from a whole new perspective. Snowshoeing is a family-friendly activity, it's easy to learn, and it offers a great workout while you enjoy the outdoors. Ready to hit the trails and immerse yourself in some of the best views that Boise has to offer? Our real estate agents have all the details on 5 snowshoeing trails around Boise that you definitely won't want to miss this winter.

• Adelmann Mine – Adelmann Mine Trailhead, Boise, ID 83716
  Learn about local history and enjoy some scenic views when you explore the Adelmann Mine trail, which is located near Boise homes for sale. This trail checks in at just under 5 miles, with relatively easy terrain to traverse if you're just getting started with snowshoeing. At the end of the trail, you will arrive at Adelmann Mine, a historic mine that has largely been preserved to the present day. There's a bit of a climb before you reach the mine, but the effort is worth it.

• Bogus Basin – 2600 N Bogus Basin Rd., Boise, ID 83702
  A unique, non-profit winter recreation area with tons of trails to explore, Bogus Basin offers excellent snowshoeing for all experience levels. This is also a great place to visit if you want to spend a full day and mix in some other winter sports. The skiing here is fantastic, and the mountain is open at night if you want to try some snowshoeing after dark. As one of the only non-profit winter recreation areas in the country, Bogus Basin is a must-visit.

• Corrals Trail – 31 Corrals Trail, Boise, ID 83702
  Running through the foothills around Boise, the Corrals Trail Loop is a busy, 5.5-mile trail with beautiful views all around. It's a point-to-point trail, so you'll either need to plan ahead for transportation or snowshoe both ways for an 11-mile round trip. Either way, you'll enjoy some great views of the foothills as you travel.

• West Highland Valley Trail – 7596-7536 #11 West Highland Valley Trail, Boise, ID 83716
  If you're looking for a less crowded trail that still offers amazing views, be sure to check out the West Highland Valley Trail. This trail is also ideal if you're experienced with snowshoeing and looking for a bit of a challenge. It's a steep trail that lasts about 6 miles, with the first couple miles offering an especially challenging climb. You can travel the loop clockwise or counter-clockwise, with different views to enjoy depending on which way you travel.

• Central Ridge Trail – 750 Mountain Cove Rd., Boise, ID 83702
  Enjoy a trip along the river when you travel the Central Ridge Trail, a popular loop that connects with various other trails in the area. When you combine the nearby Bucktail and Shane's trails with the Central Ridge Trail, you get a nearly 7-mile loop that features gorgeous views of the Boise River throughout your trip. This is an accessible trail with a moderate rating, so it's a fun place to snowshoe no matter your experience level.

No matter the season, you're never far from your next outdoor adventure when you live in Boise. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Boise, ID area.

Boise, are you ready to play ball? Pickleball is one of the nation's fastest-growing sports. This fun hybrid of tennis, badminton, and table tennis is catching on in schools, senior centers, and local outdoor spaces. Players can play one-on-one or in teams of two, taking turns hitting a plastic ball over a net with a paddle. With the ability to play indoors and outdoors, it's fairly easy for you to get out and join a pickleball game! Following is a list of just a few of our area's courts. Check HERE for a larger list and a map.

Outdoor Pickleball Courts

• Manitou Park – 2001 S. Manitou Ave., Boise, ID 83706
  Grab some fresh air at Manitou Park. This 11-acre green space features mature trees that perfectly shade the area. Open space for play, a small playground, and an off-leash dog park make this the perfect park for your whole family. Along with a basketball court, there are also two tennis courts which you can reserve for a pickleball game.
  
  
• Willow Lane Park – 4618 W. Willow Ln., Boise, ID 83703
  On the northwest side of Boise, you'll find the quaint Willow Lane Park. Although it's only situated on three acres, it does have a full athletic complex in addition to a standard park. The complex features basketball hoops, a BMX jump park, open play areas, and six dedicated pickleball courts.
  
  
• Peppermint Park – 11855 W. Peppermint Dr., Boise, ID 83709 
  A 7-acre jewel in SW Boise, Peppermint Park is a delightful neighborhood park located next to Pepper Ridge Elementary School. Two outdoor courts share nets with the two tennis courts. Other park amenities include a playground, a basketball court, open play areas, pathways, and restrooms. 
  
  
• Rita Huskey Park – 2887 Tubac Dr., Meridian, ID 83646 
  Just opened in February 2020, Reta Huskey Park is located along Five Mile Creek off N. Ten Mile Road between Ustick and McMillan. The 8.9-acre park includes 3 pickleball courts, as well as a picnic shelter, climbing features, exercise equipment, a playground, and sport court.

Indoor Pickleball Courts

• YMCA Downtown – 1050 W. State St., Boise, ID 83702
  The Treasure Valley Family YMCA located in downtown Boise hosts pickleball games throughout the week. These typically take place every Monday and Wednesday morning between 9 am and 11 am, however, you should check their play schedule for playtime updates.
  
  
• Fort Boise Community Center – 700 N. Robbins Rd., Boise, ID 83702
  The Fort Boise Community Center invites you to join their Drop-In Pickleball sessions throughout the week. All skill levels are encouraged to attend. Lessons run Mondays and Wednesdays at 8 am while games are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 4 pm and on Fridays alternating between 9 am to 2 pm and 6 pm to 10 pm depending on the week. Monthly passes are available but single-game fees are $3.00 for seniors and $4.00 for adults.
  
  
• Boise State University – 1910 University Dr., Boise, ID 83715
  Pickleball can be played on the courts of the Student Recreation Center on the campus of Boise State University. However, any member of the public that is not a student, employee, or alumnus must be sponsored by one of these individuals to play on campus.

Would you like to live in a community close to a pickleball court? Let us do the searching for you!  

Fire pits are hot these days-- literally and figuratively. They form a focal point for outdoor socializing and can extend your outdoor time with the warmth they provide in the evenings. Plus, let's not forget the joy of making s'mores in the backyard!

You can purchase a pre-made kit or have one professionally installed, but a DIY fire pit is a relatively simple project for a long weekend, and if you'd like to create a fire pit of your own, read on. 

Safety First 

Examine the area where you'd like to build your fire pit. The best spots for fire pits have a non-flammable material such as dirt or stone, and are free of overhanging or nearby branches, and are well away from other potential fuel. Your fire pit should be at least ten feet away from the house or other structures. What should be near your fire pit is a space for an appropriate fire extinguisher that's kept ready each time you light the fire pit. 

The Right Stuff

Stone, cement blocks, and brick make suitable materials for a DIY fire pit, as they can be arranged into almost any shape you want. Retaining wall blocks serve as ideal side material for fire pits. Pavers provide the perfect smooth surface for the bottom of your fire pit. Use paver sand to fill in the gaps and discourage shifting. If your fire pit is deep and you'd like the fire to sit slightly higher in the pit, use river stones or gravel for a non-flammable filler. 

Some Light Upcycling 

Some items require only a little refashioning to make a great fire pit. A large stone, concrete, or terracotta planter makes an excellent fire pit. If you'd like to give concrete casting a try, a container that is a great shape but in a less than ideal material, such as a plastic planter, might make a good mold for a concrete fire pit. 

Light Your Fire 

Only light materials designed to be burned in an outdoor setting. Seasoned wood, pressed wood logs, or gel canisters are all ideal for fire pits. If you use gel canisters, make sure the cap stays handy for extinguishing the flame. Avoid using green wood or other materials not prepared for fueling outdoor fires. If you plan to cook using your fire pit, make sure your fuel is designed for cooking. 

Home design trends come and go, but a fire pit has practical value and is very DIY-friendly.