You’ve worked hard all week and suddenly it’s the weekend! Two glorious days of free time stretch ahead of you. What will you do? Fortunately, you chose NNU as your school, so you’re in the heart of a region with loads of fun and affordable weekend options. There’s something for everyone nearby: recreation, food, local culture—it’s all right here in the Boise Valley (or in our nearby mountains). Enjoy our top recommendations and start planning.
Definitely check out Journeys Outfitting Co. It’s an NNU club that connects students with fun outdoor adventures. Join on the website and follow along on Instagram and Facebook. Or stop by their location in Conrad Commons. You can go on an adventure with the club or just get some great info about the area.
In the meantime, here are some fun (and cheap) things to do right in our backyard!
- Distance from NNU: About 1 hour
- Perfect for: Outdoor enthusiasts
- Why Go: During the winter, Bogus Basin is an affordable spot for skiing and snowboarding. In the warmer months, you can hike, mountain bike or ride the scenic chairlift to enjoy panoramic views. If you’re lucky, you might catch a sunset over Boise that’s simply stunning.
- Cost: Lift tickets are much cheaper than major resorts, and if you pack your own food, it makes for a great budget-friendly adventure.
- Distance from NNU: 30 minutes
- Perfect for: Nature lovers and cyclists
- Why Go: The Boise River Greenbelt offers miles of picturesque paths perfect for walking, biking or having a peaceful picnic by the river. You can rent bikes or even kayaks, but if you already have your own gear, this can be a nearly free day trip. The Greenbelt also passes through Boise’s vibrant downtown area if you want to check out some local coffee shops or restaurants.
- Cost: Free if you bring your own bike or walk; affordable bike rentals are available.
- Distance from NNU: About 1.5 hours
- Perfect for: Stargazing and sandboarding
- Why Go: Home to North America’s tallest single-structured sand dune, Bruneau Dunes State Park is a fantastic place to spend a day or night. You can hike the dunes, try sandboarding (bring or rent a board) and visit the observatory for some of the best stargazing in Idaho.
- Cost: Park entrance is $7 per vehicle, making it an affordable trip if you carpool with friends.
- Distance from NNU: 2-3 hours (this is a great 3-day weekend adventure)
- Perfect for: Adventure seekers
- Why Go: Hells Canyon is the deepest river gorge in North America, offering stunning views, hiking and river rafting opportunities. You can plan a budget-friendly camping trip or take a scenic drive along the Snake River to enjoy the breathtaking landscape. If you’re into fishing or boating, this is the perfect spot.
- Cost: Hiking is free, and camping is very affordable at nearby campsites.
McCall, Idaho and Ponderosa State Park
- Distance from NNU: About 2.5 hours
- Perfect for: Lakeside relaxation, hiking, camping, skiing
- Why Go: McCall is a charming lakeside town known for its outdoor activities. In the summer, you can swim, kayak or paddleboard at Payette Lake, and in the winter, nearby Brundage Mountain offers affordable skiing and snowboarding. The downtown area has plenty of coffee shops and local eateries to explore as well.
- Cost: Free to explore the town and lake, with affordable water equipment rentals if you don’t bring your own.
Shoshone Falls (Twin Falls, Idaho)
- Distance from NNU: About 2 hours
- Perfect for: Sightseeing and photography
- Why Go: Sometimes called the “Niagara of the West,” Shoshone Falls is a spectacular sight. At 212 feet high, it’s actually taller than Niagara Falls. The park area has great picnic spots, and if you’re into photography, this is a must-see. It’s especially beautiful in the spring when the water flow is at its peak.
- Cost: $5 per vehicle for park admission.
Sawtooth National Recreation Area
- Distance from NNU: About 3 hours
- Perfect for: Hiking, camping and photography
- Why Go: If you’re up for a bit of a drive, the Sawtooth National Recreation Area offers stunning mountain scenery, countless hiking trails and budget-friendly camping options. You can take a quick hike or spend the whole weekend camping under the stars.
- Cost: Free hiking; small fees for camping.
- Distance from NNU: About 2 hours
- Perfect for: Relaxation and nature lovers
- Why Go: Nestled along the South Fork of the Payette River, Kirkham Hot Springs offers a soothing retreat with several natural pools to soak in. Surrounded by stunning forest views, this is a perfect spot to unwind after a busy week of classes. It’s a popular destination, so try going early to avoid crowds.
- Cost: $5 day-use fee, making it an affordable and relaxing getaway.
- Distance from NNU: About 25 minutes
- Perfect for: City exploration, street art and foodies
- Why Go: Downtown Boise is a lively destination for shopping, dining and cultural experiences. A must-see spot is Freak Alley, an open-air gallery filled with vibrant street art and murals, changing regularly as artists add new work. It’s a great place for photos and an inspiring showcase of local creativity. While you’re there, explore Boise’s farmers markets, local boutiques and grab a bite from one of the many food trucks or affordable cafes nearby.
- Cost: Free to walk around and enjoy the art; food and drinks vary by location but are budget-friendly.
- Distance from NNU: About 30-45 minutes
- Perfect for: Solitude, hiking, stargazing, biking, off-roading
- Why Go: If you like rugged wilderness, you’ll love the Owyhees. You can hike for miles and never see another soul. Fish, hike, bike or just enjoy the quiet. Stunning desert scenery will be your companion. Note: it can get very hot in warm weather—make sure you take plenty of water.
- Cost: Free or low-fee day use areas.
Extra Tips to Help Keep Costs Down:
- Carpool: Split gas costs with friends to make trips more affordable.
- Pack Food: Bringing your own snacks or meals can save you a lot of money.
- Check Student Discounts: Some recreational areas offer student discounts for activities or rentals.
All these amazing things are within easy reach of NNU. With a bit of planning (and help from Journeys in Conrad Commons, you can explore Idaho’s natural beauty, recharge and have fun without spending a fortune!
