Things to Do in Boise in April

April Weather in Boise

18°C (64°F) High Temp

4°C (39°F) Low Temp

28 mm (1.1 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is April Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect hiking weather - trails like Table Rock are comfortable at 15-18°C (59-64°F) without summer's scorching heat, plus wildflowers bloom on foothills creating Instagram-worthy backdrops
River season begins - Boise River flows are optimal for whitewater rafting and fishing, with snowmelt creating ideal conditions that last through early summer
Local events peak - Earth Day Festival, downtown farmers markets resume, and outdoor concert series begin before tourist crowds arrive
Hotel rates drop 30-40% compared to summer peak season, with downtown properties averaging $89-120 per night versus $150+ in July-August

Considerations

Unpredictable weather swings - temperature can drop 15°C (27°F) in one day, requiring layered clothing and flexible outdoor plans
Muddy trail conditions from snowmelt and spring rains make some backcountry hikes challenging, especially north-facing slopes above 1,500m (4,920 ft)
Limited outdoor dining availability as many restaurants haven't opened patios yet due to cool evenings averaging 4-7°C (39-45°F)

Best Activities in April

Boise River Greenbelt Cycling

April offers perfect cycling weather along the 40km (25-mile) paved Greenbelt system. Temperatures stay comfortable 10-16°C (50-61°F) during prime riding hours 10am-4pm, and spring runoff makes river views spectacular. Trees are budding but not fully leafed, providing better mountain visibility.

Booking Tip: Rent bikes from downtown shops for $25-35/day. No advance booking needed except weekends. Look for shops offering helmets and trail maps. Spring tune-ups may cause rental shortages - call ahead Friday-Sunday.

Foothills Hiking and Wildflower Viewing

April is peak wildflower season on Boise's foothills. Arrowleaf balsamroot and lupine bloom from 850-1,200m (2,790-3,940 ft) elevation. Cool mornings 4-8°C (39-46°F) warm to perfect hiking temperatures by 11am. Trails like Camel's Back and Table Rock offer stunning views without summer's heat exhaustion risk.

Booking Tip: Self-guided activity - no booking required. Guided wildflower tours available through local nature organizations, typically $15-25 per person. Best viewing 10am-2pm when flowers are fully open. Check trail conditions online as some paths may be muddy from snowmelt.

Downtown Food and Brewery Walking Tours

April weather is ideal for walking Boise's compact downtown core. Cool temperatures make 2-3 hour food tours comfortable, and many breweries start offering outdoor seating. Local spring ingredients like morel mushrooms and fiddlehead ferns appear on menus. Fewer crowds mean better service and easier reservations.

Booking Tip: Book food tours 5-7 days ahead, typically $65-85 per person including tastings. Self-guided brewery hopping works well with downtown's walkable 8-block radius. Look for tours highlighting seasonal ingredients and local brewing history.

Whitewater Rafting on Boise River

April marks the beginning of rafting season as snowmelt increases water levels. Flows are typically Class II-III, perfect for beginners and families. Water temperature is cold 8-10°C (46-50°F), but outfitters provide wetsuits. Less crowded than summer months with better wildlife viewing opportunities.

Booking Tip: Half-day trips cost $85-120 per person including gear and transport. Book 10-14 days ahead as April schedules are limited by weather and water levels. Choose outfitters offering wetsuits and hot drinks post-trip. Weather cancellations common - flexible booking policies essential.

Idaho Botanical Garden Spring Tours

April showcases early spring blooms including daffodils, crocuses, and flowering trees. Garden's 20 hectares (50 acres) are less crowded, making photography easier. Cool weather is perfect for the 2-3 hour self-guided walking experience. Special April events often include guided wildflower identification walks.

Booking Tip: General admission $8-12, guided tours $15-20 additional. No advance booking required for garden entry. Special spring programs book up quickly - reserve 1-2 weeks ahead. Open daily 9am-6pm with last entry 5pm. Wear layers as garden microclimates vary by 3-5°C (5-9°F).

Wine Tasting in Snake River Valley

April is ideal for visiting local wineries as tasting rooms aren't crowded and staff have more time for education. Spring vineyard views show budbreak and early growth. Pleasant driving weather for the 30-45km (19-28 mile) winery loop south of Boise. Many wineries release new vintages in spring.

Booking Tip: Tasting fees $10-20 per winery, often waived with purchase. No reservations needed weekdays, recommended for weekend groups 6+. Plan 3-4 wineries maximum per day with designated driver. Some wineries closed Mondays-Tuesdays - check schedules before driving out.

April Events & Festivals

Mid to Late April

Earth Day Celebration at Julia Davis Park

Annual eco-focused festival featuring local vendors, environmental education, and outdoor gear demonstrations. Perfect introduction to Boise's outdoor culture with equipment demos for summer activities. Free family-friendly event typically draws 5,000+ locals.

Early to Mid April

Downtown Boise Farmers Market Opening

Saturday market season begins with local vendors offering early spring produce, artisan goods, and prepared foods. Great way to experience local culture and taste regional specialties. Live music and community atmosphere.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Waterproof hiking boots - spring trails are muddy from snowmelt and rain, especially above 1,200m (3,940 ft) elevation

Layered clothing system - temperature swings of 15°C (27°F) daily require base layer, insulating layer, and windproof shell

Lightweight rain jacket - afternoon showers occur 40% of days and last 15-45 minutes

SPF 30+ sunscreen - UV index reaches 6, intensified by snow reflection at higher elevations

Warm hat and gloves - early morning temperatures drop to 4°C (39°F) for sunrise hikes

Quick-dry pants - essential for potentially muddy trail conditions and river activities

Insulated water bottle - keeps drinks warm during cool morning activities

Compact umbrella - useful for sudden downtown showers during walking tours

Fleece or wool sweater - evenings cool rapidly after sunset around 7:30pm

Waterproof day pack - protects gear during outdoor activities in variable weather

Insider Knowledge

Book accommodations in downtown core for walkability - parking downtown costs $8-15/day but most activities are within 6 blocks of each other

Visit foothills trails between 11am-3pm for best wildflower viewing and warmest temperatures, avoiding muddy morning conditions

Local restaurants start featuring spring ingredients like morel mushrooms and wild ramps in April - ask servers about seasonal specials

Check Boise River flow rates online before booking water activities - flows can change rapidly with weather, affecting trip availability and difficulty levels

Avoid These Mistakes

Underdressing for morning activities - many tourists arrive unprepared for 4°C (39°F) starts, especially on sunrise hikes or early river trips

Assuming summer trail conditions - many backcountry trails above 1,500m (4,920 ft) remain muddy or snow-covered until late April

Not checking weather before outdoor bookings - April's variable conditions cause frequent activity cancellations and rescheduling