FLOAT THE BOISE RIVER REPORT: Record-Breaking Start to 2023 ...

Tens of thousands of people have already participated in one of Boise’s most popular summer activities: floating the Boise River. Parking and shuttle bus use numbers show that over the first few weeks of the official Float the Boise season, visitation is up approximately 20 percent over 2022.

Float the Boise partner agencies Ada County Parks & Waterways, Boise Parks and Recreation and Boise Fire launched the official float season on Thursday, June 29. Since then, more than 30,000 people have hit the water to float the six-mile stretch from Barber Park to Ann Morrison Park. Over the past weekend, both parks saw record-breaking visitation.

During the first 18 days of the 2023 float season, Barber Park, managed by Ada County, accommodated 11,133 vehicles – an 18 percent increase over 2022More than 16,800 people rode a shuttle bus during that same time frame – a 22 percent increase over 2022In terms of total vehicles, Saturday July 15 and Sunday, July 16, 2023 are now the busiest two days in the history of Barber Park with Sunday being #1 for visitation and Saturday being #2 for visitationParking lots at Barber Park (177 asphalt parking spots + approximately 400 spots of designated grass parking) and Ann Morrison Park (920 designated parking spots) filled at several points over the busy weekend as people flocked to the river

Boise's current triple digit forecast indicates this high use pattern is likely to continue through the weekend. Float the Boise partners are sharing important parking reminders and safety tips to ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable float trip.

Parking During Your Float

Parking is offered at Barber Park and Ann Morrison Park on a first-come, first-served basis. Parking at Ann Morrison Park is free while parking at Barber Park costs $7 per vehicle. Parking at both parks filled by mid-afternoon on Saturday, July 15 and Sunday, July 16 and is expected to fill up again at various times this upcoming weekend. Floaters should plan to either arrive early, take the shuttle from Ann Morrison Park to Barber Park, carpool, or use a ride-share service.

If Barber Park and/or Ann Morrison Park parking is full over the weekend and your schedule is flexible, please consider floating another day or time during off-peak hours. If you choose to float, please be courteous of all park staff, neighbors and surrounding areas. Pay attention to parking signs and do not park in drop-off areas, 30-minute zones or ‘no parking’ areas in nearby neighborhoods. Parking illegally in neighborhoods or in the parks can result in your car being ticketed or towed. Please do not block park traffic while unloading or trying to find a parking spot. Find more details about parking options, shuttle times and equipment rentals on the Float the Boise website.

Your Safety is Your Responsibility

Boise River flows have dropped below 700 cubic feet per second (cfs), which is on the lower end of the typical range for float season. The float can take more than two hours at these flows (without stopping), and conditions vary along the stretch – some areas are shallow and rocky, while some areas require active paddling through rapids and eddies. Calls for service on the Boise River remain low this season despite the high visitation numbers reported at Barber and Ann Morrison Parks. However, new hazards can arise as flows fluctuate and conditions change, so always be alert and aware.

The Boise River is a wild, scenic place and floaters should always take safety seriously. Please remember that according to Idaho state law, children ages 14 and under are required to wear a life jacket on the water. Officials urge people to bring lots of water to stay hydrated in the heat, never tie tubes or rafts together, apply sunscreen often, and know how to swim before hitting the river. Alcohol is not allowed on the Boise River. Review these and other safety tips on the Float the Boise: Safety Checklist.

Keep Boise Beautiful

The Boise River is a beautiful place to recreate; please help us keep it clean! Always dispose of trash appropriately along the float route and pack out what you pack in. There is a designated trailer at the take-out for popped or broken personal rafts and tubes. Boise Parks and Recreation is servicing trash in Ann Morrison Park as frequently as staffing allows, however floaters are also asked to practice Leave No Trace principles. Please do not overflow trash cans along the float route and at the take-out, if possible. Thank you for doing your part to keep the Boise River and its banks clean.

Be Safe. Have Fun. Float the Boise.