Autumn in Boise marks a canopy of fall foliage and harvest season, including wine grapes, apples, pumpkins and so much more. It’s hard to be bored with a never-ending roster of festivals and events, wine trails and scenic hikes. Follow the locals to this fall’s hottest happenings:
Hike or Bike the Foliage
From mid-October on, find peak fall colors along the Boise River Greenbelt, a locals’ secret. The 25-mile tree-lined pedestrian and bicycle path runs through downtown before meandering to trendy Garden City and beyond. Make a pit stop at the many wineries, breweries and cideries along the route.
Adventurous visitors head for Dry Creek Trail in Boise’s iconic foothills. The 13.8-mile out-and-back trail averages 6+ hours for experienced hikers, but there’s no shame in turning back early. You don’t have to go far to score great views.
For a hike just north of downtown, head to the Hulls Gulch Trailhead on the east end of Camel’s Back Park. In late fall, the native vegetation including chokecherry, cottonwoods, willows and syringa changes to muted yellows, greens and reds.
Wine Harvest Fun: Take the ‘Sip Local Challenge’
Winegrowers shift into overdrive beginning in late September through early October for the annual crush. Wineries host special harvest events, tastings and tours. Hit the Sunnyslope Wine Trail or the Boise Urban Wine Trail to sip new releases and view vineyards in their purple and gold glory.
Amp up the fun by joining the Idaho Wine Commission’s Sip Local Bingo challenge. Get your bingo card at a local business or at Visit Boise’s Visitor Information Center located within the Boise Metro Chamber of Commerce. Then head out to participating wineries before September 30 for a chance to win prizes. A full list of winery tours here.
Catch a Fall Festival
The Lowe Family Farmstead’s annual corn maze has become nothing short of legendary. Each year, the family announces a new design for their 18-acre challenge, voted one of America’s top corn mazes. The Farmstead Corn Maze and Pumpkin Festival takes place Sept. 9 – Oct. 29.
The Idaho Botanical Garden offers plenty of top-notch, family-friendly activities, including a Scarecrow Stroll, artisan vendors, food trucks, local beer and cider, and live music. The Fall Harvest at the Garden takes place Saturdays in October
Sample the Cuisine
Food & Wine named Boise on its shortlist of Next Great Food Cities. Spend a full week exploring the many culinary concepts that are making waves during Dine Out Downtown Boise Restaurant Week, Oct. 28 – Nov. 6.
Plan your Trip
Find all the information you need for your fall trip to Boise, Idaho here.
Photos courtesy TravMedia/Visit Boise
