Boise – Memorial Day is fast approaching and 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 commonly occur in late-Spring due to ongoing snowmelt in the mountains, water management efforts and irrigation demands. Additionally, Boise Fire cannot yet begin to complete 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 dangerously high. The fast-moving and cold water poses significant risks including threat of injury, hypothermia, and potential drowning. It’s important to remember the river has debris, downed limbs and trees, and other potential dangers that make it more hazardous to float right now, and there are still steps that agency partners need to take before announcing the official opening of the float season. Float the Boise leaders are closely monitoring river conditions in partnership with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Bureau of Reclamation, and irrigators. An official opening date for the 2026 float season will be announced once flows stabilize, warm temperatures are consistent, and hazard mitigation efforts are completed. Historically, these steps are completed in mid to late-June. Last year, the official float season started on June 20, 2025. Please remember, the Boise River is always a “float-at-your-own-risk” activity.
Keep Cool, Stay Safe
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 over the holiday weekend and offer an alternative to river recreation. Additionally, locations like nearby Lucky Peak State Park and the swimming ponds in and around Esther Simplot Park are a great way to stay cool. Please note, lifeguards are not on duty at designated swimming ponds. 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.
Additionally, the City of Boise’s outdoor pools open for the season at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, May 27.
For updates from the Float the Boise partnership and to view Boise River conditions, visit www.floattheboise.org. Residents and visitors can also 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.
