Whether you're checking out the local wildlife in the Morrison-Knudsen Nature Center, or just picnicking in Veteran's Memorial Park, you'll sure to spend a lot of time outdoors in Boise. Don't forget that fanny pack!
At the heart of Boise's parks and outdoor activities is the Boise River Greenbelt. This twenty-mile stretch of paved trails runs east-west along the north and south banks of the Boise River, through innumerable parks and attractions. You'll find Julia Davis Park along the north bank of the Greenbelt, where you can enjoy over 80 species of animals at Zoo Boise, or snap photos of the beautiful Rose Garden. You'll find the Ann Morrison Park nearby, home to the stirring Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial since 2002. Kathryn Albertson Park, a restored wetland habitat replete with walking trails and scenic lagoons, is also nearby off the Greenbelt.
If you're looking to get more of a taste of the local flora, spend an afternoon at the popular Idaho Botanical Garden, where you can wander through the Native Plant Garden, English Garden, Herb Garden or Cactus Garden to your green thumb's content. Local fauna abounds at the World Center for Birds of Prey, where you can pay a visit to condors, falcons and other fierce raptors.
A hike up the twin foothills at Camel's Back Park is always a popular outdoor option, and with its moderately easy trails and fantastic views of downtown Boise, makes for a great way to round out an outdoor day.
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