As Memorial Day Weekend approaches, Float the Boise partner agencies are reminding residents and visitors that the official float season is not yet open on the Boise River. Fluctuating river flows and dynamic conditions, due in part to ongoing snowmelt in the mountains, water management efforts and irrigation demands, make pinpointing an opening day for the official float season difficult. For these reasons, Boise Fire has not yet completed the necessary hazard mitigation work to clear trees and debris to address safety concerns along the designated novice floater segment between Barber Park and Ann Morrison Park.
The Boise River is a natural body of water, and conditions can change quickly – current river flows remain hazardous for untrained floaters, with fast-moving and cold water posing significant risks. The river has debris, downed limbs and trees, and other potential dangers that make it dangerous to float right now, and there are still steps that need to happen before the official float season starts. Float the Boise leaders are closely monitoring river conditions in partnership with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Bureau of Reclamation, and other regional agencies. An official opening date for the 2025 float season will be announced once flows stabilize, warm temperatures are consistent, and hazard mitigation efforts are completed. Historically, these steps are completed in late-June. Last year, the official float season started on June 27, 2024. Please remember, the Boise River is always a “float-at-your-own-risk” activity.
Other Ways to Stay Cool
Memorial Day weekend is a great time to explore the Boise River Greenbelt, visit a local park or other recreation facility. City of Boise splash pads and interactive fountains are opening for the season this weekend and offer an alternative to river recreation. Additionally, the swimming ponds in and around Esther Simplot Park are a great way to stay cool. Free loaner life jackets are available on stands near the beaches or can be borrowed from Idaho River Sports, located off N. Whitewater Park Boulevard. Thank you to St. Luke’s Health System for donating funds to continue this annual, life-saving program.
For updated information about Float the Boise and Boise River conditions, visit www.floattheboise.org to view the latest information and to freshen up on floater safety tips ahead of the summer season.
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Float the Boise is managed through a partnership between Ada County Parks & Waterways, Boise Parks and Recreation and the Boise Fire Department. For more information and to view current river conditions, an interactive map and answers to frequently asked questions, visit www.floattheboise.org.
