Stay Busy in Boise All Winter Long Part II

Bogus Basin
It’s peak skiing season at Bogus Basin, a mere 16.5 mile scenic drive from Boise. Glide through the powder at this beautiful, natural bowl in the valley across from the Owyhee Mountains. The drive alone – along a switchback road that transitions from high desert sagebrush to coniferous evergreens, all the while offering breathtaking views of the valley – is worth the trip, regardless of the season. But the Basin offers more than skiing: there’s snowboarding, tubing, and even a mountain coaster to view the snowy forest in all its glory. Pack some thermoses and your wool socks and take in a scenic drive up to Bogus. Bonus: while the Boise valley sometimes experiences gloomy skies during the winter months, Bogus tends to stay sunny with its peaks above the clouds. Head up the highway for a sunshine fix!

The Springs in Idaho City
The Springs in Idaho City is a beautiful, secluded retreat from the real world, and just 45 minutes away from downtown Boise. Nestled in the Boise National Forest on 80 acres of wooded bliss, you'll find a place to soak away your cares and immerse in Mother Nature. Indulge in the many options for your soaking and rejuvenation needs at The Springs Resort near Idaho City, Idaho. Take a dip in the 40′ x 80′ geothermal pool or for some extra heat, kick back in the 16′ hot tub clocking in at 104*. While you’re there, try out the steam room to find that higher level of relaxation. Soak in the warm water while watching the snow fall, and order poolside drinks and food, then come on back to sleep like a baby in the Inn at 500 Capitol.

Hike to Hot Springs
There are many other hot springs within an hour or two from Boise, and many feature beautiful mountain views. Pack your warm boots, a few snacks and beverages, and your swimsuit and soak with a few friends while enjoying this quintessential Idaho winter activity. On our short list are Kirkham Hot Springs, Pine Flats Hot Spring, Moondipper Hot Springs, and Pine Burl Hot Springs. You can’t miss!

Sledding at Camel’s Back Park
The steep hills at Camel’s Back Park make for ideal sledding and tubing. Take any snowfall as an opportunity to take the kids and kids at heart to get out and play in the powder. Of course, since it ‘s one of the most popular hills in Boise, you’re likely to part of a crowd. Located in the North End of Boise, Camel's Back Park sees hundreds of sledders every winter. The orange fencing along the hill's chute is there for your protection and nature’s, protecting grass seed that crews laid back in the fall as part of a project to stabilize the chute. After hitting the “slopes” in the North End, don’t forget to stop for hot cocoa and a quick bite at a local restaurant in Hyde Park afterward. Try Goody’s Soda Fountain, Java Hyde Park, or Certified Kitchen and Bakery.

Idaho Steelheads
Grab a beer or a hot dog and take in the thrill of the watching the city’s minor league hockey team right in downtown Boise. The Idaho Steelheads are an affiliate to the NHL’s Dallas Stars, so the game you’ll see will be nothing short of spectacular. Games tend to fall on weekends, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Check the Steelhead’s schedule to plan your trip around their next home game!

Boise State University Athletics
If you’d rather watch than play, and you’ve already made it over to watch the Steelheads at the Idaho Central Arena, consider catching a Boise State basketball game while you’re here, too. You don’t have to bleed blue, just root for the home team!

There are more than enough reasons to get out there and explore. Go see and do, before warming up with us at the Inn at 500 Capitol. See you next month for more!