Ten important skateboard spots in Boise, Idaho
1. The Basque Block
One of Boise’s most iconic urban skate spots is located in the heart of downtown at the Basque Block. This area, with its combination of cobblestone streets and modern architecture, provides a mix of ledges, rails, and stairs for skaters looking to test their technical skills. The Basque Block is often less crowded than more traditional parks, which allows for uninterrupted skate sessions. Skaters can also enjoy the scenery, as it is surrounded by local cafes, restaurants, and small shops. The spot's accessibility and laid-back vibe make it an ideal place for skaters of all levels to practice and learn new tricks.
2. Ann Morrison Park
Ann Morrison Park is a local gem with a wide range of skateable features and is particularly popular among street skaters. Located along the Boise River, this park offers everything from mellow banks to technical ledges and rails, making it an excellent spot for both beginners and more experienced riders. The park’s diverse terrain is perfect for longboarding, technical street skating, and even freestyle tricks. The scenic environment adds to the overall experience, with the Boise River providing a beautiful backdrop as skaters cruise through the park. The park is often less crowded during weekdays, making it a go-to spot for skaters looking for some peace while skating.
3. Boise Skatepark
The Boise Skatepark, located in the southeast part of the city, is one of the largest and most well-known skateparks in Idaho. This park is designed to accommodate a variety of skateboarding styles, with multiple features such as bowls, ramps, quarterpipes, and street elements. The skatepark's smooth concrete surfaces, along with its thoughtfully designed layout, make it a favorite among local skaters. It is particularly popular for bowl riders and vert skaters, but there are plenty of street elements for those who prefer rail slides and grinds. With its central location, this park is often the hub of Boise's skateboarding scene, hosting events and competitions throughout the year.
4. Iris Park
Iris Park is another great spot located in a quieter neighborhood in Boise. Known for its street features, Iris Park offers a variety of skate obstacles including ledges, manual pads, and rails. The park is well-maintained and offers a great atmosphere for both beginners and seasoned skaters. The terrain is not overly technical, which makes it a great place for skaters looking to practice tricks without the pressure of heavy crowds. Iris Park is especially ideal for those who want to work on their grinds and slides. The park also provides plenty of open space for longboarding or cruising, making it a versatile spot for all kinds of skaters.
5. North End Street Spots
Boise’s North End neighborhood offers a variety of street spots that appeal to skaters who enjoy urban environments. This area, known for its historic homes and eclectic mix of businesses, features a number of skateable ledges, curbs, and rails scattered throughout. The streets of the North End have long been popular with skaters due to the mix of smooth pavement and diverse features that offer a variety of tricks. From the sloped streets to the wide curbs, skaters can easily find an obstacle that suits their skill level. The North End’s urban setting also provides an added element of challenge, as skaters navigate through a mix of pedestrians and traffic. Overall, this area is ideal for street skaters looking to explore Boise’s urban environment.
6. Bown Crossing Skatepark
Bown Crossing Skatepark is located near the Boise River and offers skaters a scenic and peaceful setting to skate. The park features a mix of street and transition elements, including ledges, rails, quarterpipes, and bowls. With a layout designed for skaters of all levels, it’s an excellent spot for both beginners and experienced riders. The park’s proximity to the Boise River also provides a relaxing atmosphere, with skaters able to enjoy nature while riding. The park is usually less crowded than the more popular Boise Skatepark, making it a good choice for those who want to avoid busy sessions while still having access to quality terrain.
7. Morrison Knudsen Nature Center
While the Morrison Knudsen Nature Center isn’t a traditional skatepark, its unique setting along the Boise River makes it an interesting spot for skaters. The center offers a wide variety of terrain, including ledges and banks, making it a great destination for street skaters looking for a more natural setting. The smooth pavement along the walking trails can also provide an excellent surface for cruising and longboarding. The combination of the park’s natural beauty and the skateable features make it a hidden gem for those willing to explore the area. The center’s peaceful environment and connection to Boise’s natural landscape make it an ideal spot for skaters who appreciate outdoor skating sessions.
8. The Greenbelt
For longboarders and skaters who prefer cruising to technical street skating, the Boise Greenbelt is one of the city’s best locations. Stretching over 25 miles along the Boise River, the Greenbelt is a scenic pathway that connects parks, neighborhoods, and downtown Boise. While not a traditional skatepark, it offers long stretches of smooth pavement and winding paths that are perfect for longboarding or cruising. Skaters can enjoy the natural beauty of the Boise River, as the Greenbelt passes through wetlands, forests, and open fields. The path is wide enough for skaters to travel safely while enjoying the calm surroundings. Additionally, the Greenbelt is a great option for skaters who want to get around the city while experiencing its picturesque outdoor spaces.
9. Veterans Memorial Park
Veterans Memorial Park offers another variety of street skating obstacles, including ledges, rails, and manual pads, along with open areas for skating. This park is often frequented by locals who enjoy a mix of mellow skating and technical tricks. The park’s layout includes both street elements and open spaces for cruising, which makes it a popular location for skaters looking for a diverse experience. The park’s quiet surroundings and well-maintained features make it an ideal spot for working on new tricks or simply enjoying a laid-back skate session. Veterans Memorial Park also often has fewer skaters compared to the more popular parks, making it an excellent alternative for those who want to skate without the crowds.
10. Boise River Park
Located along the Boise River, the Boise River Park is a small but highly enjoyable skate spot that is favored by locals. It features a small bowl and several street obstacles, making it a great spot for both street and transition skaters. The park’s proximity to the river gives it a unique, picturesque setting, which makes it an enjoyable place to skate on a sunny day. While not as large as some of Boise’s other skateparks, the Boise River Park offers a good mix of skateable elements and is often quieter, making it a great place for skaters to focus on their lines and enjoy a relaxed session.
Skateboarding is tribal and most locals are welcoming, but if you're new to a spot, or just passing through, have respect for the locals. Listen. Be smart. Have fun.
A human being
Art can change the world – and everybody is an artist. Those who scribble stickmen. Those who paint chapel ceilings. Those who tattoo biceps. Those who are careful with pigment on canvas. Those who create fantasy characters. Those who paint pet portraits. Those who yarn bomb. Those who write poems on crappy old cardboard.
My art lives on the bottom of skateboard decks. It's designed for you to destroy. For you, the rider, my art may come second to the deck’s ability to perform – and that’s awesome. To me, art comes first. Always.
It’s how I think. It’s who I am. It’s what I am.
A machine
This article has been created with the help of artificial intelligence platforms ChatGPT and Bard. If there are inaccuracies or there are opportunities for improvement, please let me know.
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