Things to Do in Boise in November

November Weather in Boise

13°C (55°F) High Temp

0°C (32°F) Low Temp

28 mm (1.1 inches) Rainfall

65% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Foothills Ridge viewpoints offer crystal-clear mountain vistas on 18-20 days per month - November's low humidity creates exceptional photography conditions with visibility extending 160+ km (100+ miles)
Downtown Cultural District events peak in November with Boise Art Museum's annual benefit, Morrison Center performances, and gallery walks drawing smaller, more intimate crowds before holiday rush
Hotel rates drop 25-35% from October peaks while maintaining pleasant walking weather - downtown properties average $89-129 versus $145-189 in peak months
Local restaurant scene showcases harvest-driven menus featuring Idaho ingredients - root vegetables, late-season apples, and craft beer seasonal releases before tourist season returns

Considerations

Daylight hours shrink rapidly from 10.5 hours early November to 9 hours by month's end - outdoor activities must be planned between 9am-4pm for optimal lighting
Boise River Greenbelt becomes muddy and slippery after rain or morning frost, limiting cycling and jogging from 6-10am most days
Weather unpredictability requires daily planning flexibility - temperatures can swing 17°C (30°F) between morning and afternoon

Best Activities in November

Bogus Basin Hiking and Early Season Activities

November offers the sweet spot before snow sports season - hiking trails remain accessible with crisp air and potential dusting of snow creating dramatic scenery. Morning temperatures around 0°C (32°F) create perfect conditions for intermediate hikes without summer heat. The 2,134m (7,000ft) elevation provides snow-capped views while base areas remain walkable.

Booking Tip: No advance booking needed for hiking, but check Bogus Basin's website for road conditions after November 15th. Day passes for facilities run $15-25. Rent winter gear locally if planning higher elevation activities.

Idaho Botanical Garden and Foothills Nature Walks

November transforms the botanical garden into a showcase of autumn colors and winter garden design. Cool 8-13°C (46-55°F) afternoon temperatures make 2-3 hour walks comfortable. The lack of summer crowds means intimate experiences with seasonal displays and easier parking.

Booking Tip: Garden admission runs $12-15 for adults. Visit between 11am-3pm for warmest conditions. Special November events like 'Winter Prep Workshops' typically cost $25-40 and fill quickly.

Downtown Food and Brewery Tours

November showcases Boise's craft beer scene with seasonal releases and harvest-themed menus. Cool weather makes walking between venues comfortable, and indoor venues provide warmth during the 8 rainy days. Local breweries debut winter ales and harvest IPAs.

Booking Tip: Self-guided brewery walks work well - venues cluster within 6 blocks downtown. Organized food tours typically run $65-95 per person and book up on weekends. Reserve 5-7 days ahead.

World Center for Birds of Prey Experiences

November migration patterns bring unique raptor viewing opportunities. Cool, clear weather creates ideal conditions for outdoor demonstrations, and reduced summer crowds mean better viewing positions. Morning temperatures suit both visitors and birds for active displays.

Booking Tip: General admission $10-12, special programs $25-45. Morning visits (9-11am) offer most active bird displays. Weekend programs book out, so reserve 10-14 days ahead through their website.

Boise River Floating and Scenic Drives

While river floating winds down, November offers spectacular scenic drives through Boise National Forest with fall colors and early snow. The 48km (30-mile) Bogus Basin Road provides changing elevation views, and clear skies offer mountain photography opportunities.

Booking Tip: Scenic drives require no booking but check road conditions above 1,500m (5,000ft) after mid-November. Guided photo tours run $125-175 and focus on golden hour lighting between 2-4pm.

November Events & Festivals

Early to mid November

Boise State Football Home Games

November typically features 1-2 home games at Albertsons Stadium with crisp game-day atmosphere. The blue turf looks striking against autumn skies, and moderate crowds make tickets accessible. Tailgating culture peaks in comfortable fall weather.

Late November

Downtown Boise Holiday Market Opening

Late November kicks off the winter market season with local artisans, food vendors, and craft demonstrations. The event provides indoor and outdoor components suitable for variable November weather.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Layered clothing system essential - temperatures swing from 0°C (32°F) mornings to 13°C (55°F) afternoons requiring base layer, insulating layer, and outer shell

Waterproof hiking boots with good tread - morning frost and occasional muddy trails on 8 rainy days make grippy soles critical

Light insulated jacket for evening activities - after 5pm temperatures drop quickly, especially in foothills areas

Sun protection despite moderate UV index 3 - high altitude and snow reflection can cause unexpected burns during mountain activities

Compact umbrella or light rain shell - November showers are brief but can soak through cotton layers

Warm hat and gloves for early morning activities - frost occurs on 12-15 days, especially during sunrise photography or early hikes

Camera gear protection - sudden weather changes can create condensation issues when moving between indoor/outdoor venues

Cash for smaller venues - local breweries and food trucks may have limited card processing during slower November season

Portable phone charger - shorter daylight hours mean more navigation and photography, draining batteries faster

Insider Knowledge

Local coffee shops downtown offer 'November specials' with seasonal drinks 20-30% off regular prices - look for chalkboard signs rather than printed menus

Boise Depot area farmers market continues through November on reduced Saturday schedule with root vegetables and preserved goods at 40-50% below summer prices

University district restaurants offer student-friendly pricing that extends to visitors during November lull - lunch specials run $8-12 versus $15-20 in peak season

Morning frost creates spectacular photography conditions at Julia Davis Park pond and rose garden between 7-9am, with golden hour lighting lasting until 8am due to low sun angle

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating morning cold - visitors pack for afternoon highs of 13°C (55°F) but get caught in 0°C (32°F) morning temperatures during early activities

Assuming summer Boise River activities continue - floating season typically ends October 31st, leaving visitors without backup plans for water-based activities

Booking outdoor activities too late in day - sunset at 5:15pm means outdoor activities need 3:30pm completion to avoid navigating trails in darkness