Ushering in a summer's worth of Boise River recreation, the floating season officially opens Thursday, June 28, according to Ada County officials.
High water flows that neared 10,000 cubic feet per second in May and flooded portions of the Greenbelt have finally reduced to levels acceptable for water-bound leisure.
It's welcome news for those looking to get a jump on the float season and the upcoming Fourth of July holiday, which was decidedly float-free in 2011, when the river didn't open for floating until July 16.
On Thursday, Epley's Raft and Tube Rentals at Barber Park in Boise will begin renting rubber on which to float, shuttle service will start and other services will ramp up.
And while the river is open for business, officials caution river-goers to stay mindful of their surroundings, remain cautious, wear life jackets and remember that alcohol and glass containers are prohibited.
Earlier this month, Boise Weekly saw how the Boise Fire Dive Team prepares for the months-long floating season.
Check for info on parking, Barber park hours, shuttle costs and times here. Epley's offers information about rentals here.