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Outdoor program gives students reasons to soak up the sun
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Boise’s unique location to the wilderness plus its plethora of inner-city activities provide those who seek much more than riding the sofa or getting their daily fix of XBOX. These activities are known as lifetime sports and participants gain from their healthy benefits as well as the addiction to outdoor recreation through shear exhilaration. The Boise State Recreation Center’s outdoor program advocates getting people outside and active. They’ve suggested five activities that could generate a desire to get up and get outdoors. Many of the activities are supported by both training and equipment at the BSU Rec.
FISHING
Sometimes relaxing near or in a body of water can sooth the soul. Boise has access to some of the best fishing in the northwest. The Snake and Salmon Rivers are the envy of anglers around the globe.
“This place is an amazing place for fly fishing,” junior Keegan Strong said. “A good time to just get out and get in the water.”
The Boise and Payette rivers along with the countless reservoirs, streams and lakes in southern Idaho stimulate the senses of those who require tranquility.
Visit the BSU Rec site at rec.boisestate.edu or the outdoor program office on the east side of the BSU Rec Center for more information on programs and summer activities. They are ready and willing to assist you with your outfitting needs.
ROCK CLIMBING
Pretty much anything with a sharp incline provides a base for those who wish to become Spiderman for a day. The Black Cliffs near Lucky Peak and Table Rock east of Boise are good for bouldering to novice climbers. Climbers who need more a slight increase in elevation might look to McCall, the Sawtooth Mountain Range in central Idaho, the Tetons near Wyoming or the world famous City of Rocks in south-central Idaho.
“Climbing is amazing,” BSU student Tema Taillet-Bois said. “It is both physically challenging and mentally challenging. It’s just a great way to grow a greater appreciation for the earth.It’s a beautiful sport.”
Each location covers different levels of skill for climbers of all abilities and ages.
BACKPACKING/CAMPING/DAY HIKING
Multiple access points for those who would like to car camp or trek their way into the wilderness can be found close to campus. Lucky Peak Reservoir is perfect for those who would like a day away from city life. Multiple day hikes are readily found near the site. For those who desire serenity and few people the Sawtooth Mountains accompanied by the Frank Church Wilderness Area near Sun Valley and Stanley are great access points for backpacking campers. Multiple natural springs and wildlife are stellar attributes that these areas encompass. Always be prepared with the proper supplies when choosing to undertake these types of treks.
August 15 through 20 the BSU Rec hosts the annual Wilderness Quest where first year Broncos can go on a backpacking trip with outdoor program staff.
RAFTING/KAYAKING
Those looking for the invigorating life force that is Idaho water need not look further than the Boise River. Rafters, kayakers and tubers dot the vein that runs through the heart of Boise. A move toward the wilderness presents more pristine environments for water babies who need more than to casually drift through downtown Boise.
“Idaho is famous for their whitewater,” outdoor program assistant director Geoff Harrison said. “They’ve got more miles than any other state.”
Approximately 31,000 whitewater river miles according to gonorthwest.com that range from class I to V rapids. Close access to the Payette River and a short trek to the Snake and Salmon Rivers give thrill seekers different ways to experience wildlife and nature.
“It brings together teamwork, especially when you are in a raft,” junior Denise Green said. “You have to do everything at the same time.It is a great time to go out and experience something new if you haven’t done something like that before.”
BIKING/MOUNTAIN BIKING
The Ridge to Rivers Trail System offers local access for those who wish to go for a ride in the Boise foothills and surrounding areas. It provides trails that cater to novice and expert riders.
“I mountain bike daily,” BSU junior Clayton Wanbichler said. “It is a great way to get exercise. It is a great way to get out there and enjoy the people, the foothills and to really exert yourself.It is the most exhilarating sport I have ever done.” Boise has also been recognized as one of the most cycle friendly cities in America by Bike Magazine. Riding from front porch to foothills takes literally minutes. For the more adventurous McCall and Stanley offer world class riding conditions.
KIRK BELL
Arbiter Journalist
