Boise, ID

Songbirds sing at Kathryn Albertson Park in Boise. The 40-acre nature park was once a horse pasture that's been transformed into a wide-open range of tranquil ponds, trees and shrubs. Capital city nature enthusiasts and photographers head to this outdoor oasis to observe songbirds, waterfowl and native wildlife.

Address: 1001 Americana Boulevard, Boise, ID 83702 - MAP
Phone: (208) 608-7644
Web: www.visitidaho.org/kathryn-albertson-park

It sure is fishy at the Morrison Knudsen Nature Center. The 4.6-acre wildlife center sits alongside the Boise River Greenbelt and offers a fish eyes view of Boise's stream environment. Popular inhabitants like great blue herons, quail, muskrats and mink will greet you on the outdoor nature walk.

Address: 600 South Walnut Street, Boise, ID 83712 - MAP
Phone: (208) 334-2225
Web: www.fishandgame.idaho.gov

Go green at the Idaho Botanical Garden. See nature's outdoor wonders and blooming sensations on full display as you travel the winding garden paths through the Peony Garden, Herb Garden, Labyrinth Garden, the Children's Adventure Garden and more. Naturally you'll enjoy going green here.

Address: 2355 North Penitentiary Road, Boise, ID 83712 - MAP
Phone: (208) 343-8649
Web: www.idahobotanicalgarden.org

Bring your sense of adventure to Rocky Mountain River Tours. White-water rafting down the beautiful Middle Fork of the Salmon River brings you up close to amazing birding and wildlife watching. Pack a snack and bring your camera to capture picture-perfect memories in the great outdoors. Remember to master the paddle to stay topside!

Address: Call For Rates, Dates, And Launch Sites
Phone: (208) 345-2400
Web: www.rafttrips.com

A hub for outdoor activities is Boise National Forest . The scenic park is home to steep mountains, speedy rivers and a dense forest that invites visitors to ride a bike on the bicycle path, rent a canoe or kayak, catch a fish, and eat out at the wooded picnic areas while watching wildlife.

Address: 1249 South Vinnell Way, Boise, ID 83709 - MAP
Phone: (208) 373-4100
Web: www.fs.usda.gov

Kids soak up wild river fun at the Mackay Wilderness River Trips with Mackay's Kid Wrangler Program. Dive into a pint-sized outdoor adventure that offers the family white-water rafting, fun on sandy beaches, swimming in the river, hanging around a campfire and sleeping under the stars.

Address: 602 West Hays Street, Suite 306, Boise, ID 83702 - MAP
Phone: (208) 344-1881
Web: www.mackayriver.com