Idaho and Boise get a bad rep for having snowy, freezing, and unforgiving winters.
Boise winters can be wonderful! Don’t get me wrong we see a few snowy mornings, but the average snowfall each year in Boise is 18 inches. Total. This foot and a half also comes an inch or two at a time and melts away by 2pm. The average snowfall in the US is 28 inches. The temperature hangs out between 40-46 degrees at the high and 23-27 degrees at the low end.
The Boise Winter is full of things to do and see, try a few and you’ll understand why we love it.
There’s snow place like the mountains.
If you want the snow don’t worry, you can drive 18.4 miles up to Bogus Basin where the base depth is 45 inches. Bogus offers skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, cross-country ski trails, tubing, and a mountain coaster. A great place to spend a weekend outside in the mountains.
If you want the snow adventure without the drive, check out Eagle Island State Park.
Not only is this a great swimming spot in the summer, it has great tubing options in the winter. With snow machines working every day, there is always new snow to play in. Feeling inspired? Try your luck at ice skating either indoors at Idaho Ice World or in the outdoor rink located at the Village in Meridian.
Not feeling the cold?
If you’re looking for an indoor option you can attend an Idaho Steelheads Hockey game, Boise State Basketball game, or catch a movie downtown. Boise Art Museum, Aquarium, and the Idaho State Museum are also great options when you’re feeling chilly. Here’s a few more ideas.
If you want to warm up, it’s time to hit one of Idaho’s famous natural hot springs.
There is a spot for everyone here. You can drive up to The Springs in Idaho City for a relaxing night in a private tub with poolside food and drink service and even stay the night. If you’re up for an adventure you can pick a natural spring untouched in the woods, the only catch is these include a quick (but chilly) hike in and out. Rocky Canyon Hot Springs are the closest option to Boise. Here are visitIdaho.org’s 7 must visit springs.
The McCall Winter Carnival is a can’t miss event including snow sculptures, fireworks, live music, dog sledding, and more. The carnival runs from January 24th-February 2nd. Here’s the full event calendar.
