The 1.6-mile section of pathway on the Boise River which extends from the Reedhouse Apartments off Parkcenter Boulevard to the East Parkcenter Bridge on the south side of the river is located in a 24-acre natural area, which includes valuable riparian vegetation, wildlife nesting spots and several small irrigation canals that have been transformed into streams inhabited by fish. One of the "Ribbon of Jewels," Bethine Church River Trail is a great place for a walk and wildlife viewing.
No bikes or E-scooters are allowed on the Bethine Church River Trail and pets must be on a leash.
Hours of Operation
Trail is open from sunrise to sunset.
Parking
Recommended locations to park and access the trail would be:
- Marianne Williams Park (walk west towards Downtown along Greenbelt on North side of river, then cross East Parkcenter bridge, go under bridge to connect with trail)
- Baggley Park (walk east along Greenbelt half a mile to Powerline Corridor access path, turn left to connect to trail)
Smoking Prohibition
Smoking and vaping are prohibited in all City of Boise parks, including within 20 feet of the Boise River Greenbelt, except in designated areas within Ann Morrison and Julia Davis Parks and at city-owned golf courses.
Towing
Unauthorized vehicles will be towed at owner's risk and expense. You can contact Boise Valley Towing by calling (208) 389-9707.
About the Trail
One of the "Ribbon of Jewels," Bethine Church River Trail is a great place for a quiet walk, personal reflection and wildlife viewing.
About Bethine Church
Bethine Church passed away at the age of 90 on December 21, 2013. Church's contributions to wildlife and conservation efforts in the state were numerous. Church founded and chaired the Sawtooth Society, which successfully lobbied for funds to protect the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. The society also worked to fund Forest Service projects such as trails and infrastructure, helped to guarantee the survival of the SNRA wilderness area for generations to come. She continued to work with Rep. Mike Simpson for passage of the Central Idaho Economic Development and Recreation Act (CIEDRA) legislation to protect the Boulder-White Clouds wilderness.
The late Church chaired the Frank Church Institute, which brought national speakers including President Gerald Ford and former Vice Presidents Al Gore and Walter Mondale to Boise at her invitation. Under her leadership, the institute has raised a $1 million endowment to fund the conferences, the Frank and Bethine Church Professor, and scholarships at Boise State University.
In the fall of 2009, Church received the Bob Marshall Award from the National Governing Council of the Wilderness Society. The award was named for the founder of the Wilderness Society, of which she was a member.