If you’re searching for an affordable pet-friendly, small-city destination in which to spend your next vacation or make your future home, think Boise. This Idaho “city of trees” is situated along the banks of the forested Boise River, an outdoorsman and dog-lover’s paradise in one. Families can take their dogs just about anywhere including a float trip down the Boise River, a jog along the 25-mile long greenbelt, or a short hike to Table Rock to overlook the city. There are miles of accessible foothills, drive-through parks, and patio-style restaurants to accommodate not only visitors and locals but their dogs as well.
Whether you are coming for a summer break or passing through on your journey to find a slower pace away from the big-city crowds, Boise features some of best dog parks on record. In fact, Movoto recently reported that Boise is one of the “top ten best places to live across the nation.” Let’s take a look at the top five Boise dog parks your pooch will love.
1. Ann Morrison Park
Source: pixabay.com
One of Boise’s most pristine parks, just minutes from Boise downtown, runs along the Boise River and serves as an outlet for daily float trips. Ann Morrison Park offers owners and their pets over a mile of off-leash space in certain seasons and year-around on-leash access. The park features picnic facilities, restrooms, and a wide riverbed for your dog’s favorite pastime of fetch.
Owners and their dogs can enjoy the park from sunrise to sunset, seven days a week, with off-leash freedom east of the fountain from November to March. Since the park is within city limits, leash laws and pick-up ordinances must be followed, and signs are posted. Onsite you’ll find water and waste cans, but bring your own dog necessities.
1000 N. Americana Blvd
Boise, ID 83706
208-608-7600
2. Marianne Williams Park
Source: wikipedia.org
The Marianne Williams Park is Boise’s newest and most beautiful natural outdoor landscape, located on the edge of Bown Crossing, where commercial and residential developments are thriving. Only a few miles south of downtown, this 72-acre paradise is situated along unspoiled woodlands and the high riverbanks of the Boise River, with wide-open spaces and a paved greenbelt for all to enjoy.
Dogs are allowed on the greenbelt path with a leash, and there will be no shortage of oncoming visitors of the canine type. It’s a place for dogs to meet and greet, while owners can take in any number of outdoor activities, from fishing to rafting. In season, water and restrooms are available but bring along your own pet supplies.
3451 E. Barber Valley Drive
Boise, ID 83706
208-608-7600
3. Hulls Gulch Reserve
Source:parks.cityofboise.org
A true dog destination, Hulls Gulch Reserve offers 180 miles of ridge-to-river trails in the Boise downtown foothills. Hikers, runners, horseback riders, mountain bikers, dog walkers, and dogs alike will enjoy this gorgeous natural foothill reserve. Both The Grove and Lower Hulls Gulch trailheads are the starting point to miles of freedom, and there are over 25 trails to explore. There are exceptions for hunting dogs if you come during hunting season. One of the most natural among the Boise dog parks, the Hulls Gulch Reserve offers four recommended trails including Corral’s Trail, Shane’s Loop, The Ponds Loop, and Three Bears Trail.
While Boise has strict leash laws, dogs are allowed and there are designated off-leash areas. Bring your own water, waste supplies, and snacks for some half-day or full-day adventures. Expect some steep climbs in certain areas.
3001 N. Sunset Peak Road
Boise, ID 83702
208-384-4240
4. Military Reserve Park
Source:parks.cityofboise.org
Get away from it all, without ever leaving the city. The Military Reserve is a 726-acre park on natural creek valley terrain with many outdoor features and uses. An early military cemetery and an archery range are interesting must-see attractions within the reserve. Owners and dogs won’t have to go far, as one of the many off-leash areas is located near the entrance to this reserve, one of the best Boise dog parks.
Visitors can expect to enjoy ten acres of moderate-to-steep slopes to explore from dawn until dusk. Bring your own water, but you will find some supplies and waste cans on site. There is plenty of shade, benches, and endless trails in this rustic setting. The city’s ordinances and dog-off-leash regulations are posted.
750 N. Mountain Cove Road
Boise, ID 83712
208-384-4422
5. Julia Davis Park
Source: flickr.com
Known for its culture, history, and art, Julia David Park is one of the largest drive-through parks in the city featuring several museums, a discovery center, zoo, outdoor rose garden, bandshell, playgrounds, riverside greenbelt, and last-but-not-least, dog-friendly atmosphere. “JD” Park, as many locals call it, is home to a variety of annual gatherings including the Boise renowned Art in the Park. Stroll along the river or walk among the trees with your pooch in this historic 43-acre landmark in the heart of downtown Boise.
Dogs of every size are allowed on the grounds and the trails. The only dog restrictions include the zoo and out buildings. However, your dog must be well-mannered, leashed, and clean. You’ll find water, but bring your own supplies.
700 S. Capital Blvd
Boise, ID 83702
208-384-4228
Boise offers a relaxed atmosphere in a great small city, where pets are more than welcome. Nearby mountain towns also share in the same outdoor culture. Both McCall and Sun Valley resorts are within a few hours’ driving distance from Boise, and doggies are always welcome. At some establishments, dogs are either part of the staff or you can bring your dog inside. Be sure to inquire in advance.
Boise is a dog destination. Early spring, summer, and well into the fall, it’s dog heaven around here, with some of the best Boise dog parks in Idaho. Boise is rich in outdoor activities for laid-back lifestyles, with less traffic, lower home prices, easy access to sporting activities, and plenty of places to take the dog. For pet owners who plan their trips and living spaces around their dogs, you’ve found a dog destination your pooch will love.
2 Point Highlight
Boise offers a relaxed pace in a great small city, where pets are more than welcome.
Boise is a dog destination.
