THE CITY OF TREES
By Jim Foster
Traveling to Boise in a raging snowstorm in search of photographing some fishing on the Boise River, I discovered a city of over 300,000 population that is quite urban but with a rural atmosphere.
Walking around the city proper I was greeted with birds of several species and a plethora of the scampering red squirrel – even scratching on my hotel window.
I was impressed with the many historical buildings, including the Idanha Hotel. This old structure is still in use and at the time of its completion in 1901 at a cost of $125,000 dollars, was the most expensive structure ever built in Boise, was the tallest building in the state, and had Idaho’s first elevator.
Boise, is the capital and largest city of the State of Idaho, is the hub of commerce, banking and government for the state. It is a blend of both traditional and non-traditional sights and attractions.
Located along the Boise River and nestled against foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Boise offers many outdoor activities, from skiing at Bogus Basin Ski Resort, to biking on the Boise River Greenbelt to boating at nearby reservoirs.
Let’s not forget the Boise River can brag about being one of the Rockies best urban fisheries and both cold and warm water species can and are caught here. The Green Belt is well maintained and groomed. Drifting the entire length of the Urban River is a popular activity.
Boise Parks & Recreation maintains 22.5 miles of pathway along the Boise River Greenbelt corridor. Types of services provided includes: mowing of riparian areas, tree trimming, path and hard surface maintenance, snow removal, litter removal and site amenity maintenance.
It would seem the city has it all - desert, rivers, mountains and lakes for hiking, camping, kayaking, river rafting, hunting and fishing.
So named The City of Trees, Boise has one-of-a-kind museums and urban parks. Among the many unique sites to visit are the Basque Museum and Cultural Center, Idaho Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial, Idaho Black History Museum and the World Center for Birds of Prey.
Of course Boise is capitol city of Idaho and the location Boise State University, the state's largest university with an enrollment of over 19,500 students. Education is important in Boise and in is exhibited by 5 high schools, 9 junior high schools, and 34 grade schools.
The impressive state capitol building is seen from most downtown location and looms majestic at the end of Capitol Street. Boise is a town with many faces and should be explored in depth with an adventurous spirit.
A visit here should be required for all residents if Idaho and on the travel list for all Americans.
For more information on Boise and the Boise area contact the Boise Convention and Visitors Bureau at; http://www.boise.org or give them a call at 800.635.5240 / 208.344.7777 Fax: 208.344.6236
To contact Jim Foster with news or comments Email him at jim@jimfosteroutdoors.com/
