When it comes to professions, city planners must encounter some of the most unique challenges. I mean, can you imagine the skillset required to look out upon an undeveloped expanse and envision what future residents might enjoy and benefit from? There have certainly been some dramatic success stories of gifted city planning in this country (e.g., Chicago, Boston, and New York City) as well as some significant failures (e.g., Los Angeles).
After visiting Boise, Idaho, I’m guessing that at some point the planners had an epiphany on at least one foundational building block for the city…”a river runs through it.” 🤯 Rather than being reactive to the growth in this area, they determined to proactively align a future trail system with the flow of the Boise River.
The “Boise River Greenbelt” is an incredible trail that spans 29 miles, never wanders far from the banks of the river, and features a seemingly innumerable collection of trees. Much of the trail is paved, it is almost entirely flat, and it welcomes walkers, runners, cyclists, and leashed dogs. Maps of the trail system are posted fairly regularly and convenient mile markers are also helpful. For those seeking an adventure upon the river itself, convenient ramps are available for the launching of small boats.
Portions of the trail are adjacent to wildlife conservation areas, so wandering off the trail may not only be prohibited, but may also send you home with a souvenir of poison ivy.
Although all of the miles that we explored felt very safe, as always we recommend the “buddy system” while enjoying any trail.
And that’s…Henry’s Take.
#trailseries
#boiserivergreenbelt
