Treasure Valley doesn’t hibernate when the snow falls. In fact, January is when this place really starts to shine. Whether you’re new to the area or just visiting, this list gives you the best of what the Boise metro area has to offer in the heart of winter - from outdoor adventures to cozy indoor fun. Here are 10 great ways to make the most of January 2026 in Treasure Valley.
Table of Contents
- 1. Go Snow Tubing or Skiing at Bogus Basin
- 2. Experience Winter Garden aGlow at the Idaho Botanical Garden
- 3. Soak in a Natural Hot Spring
- 4. Cheer on the Idaho Steelheads
- 5. Explore Downtown Boise’s First Thursday (Jan 1, 2026)
- 6. Visit the World Center for Birds of Prey
- 7. Cozy Up at a Local Coffee Roaster
- 8. Hike the Snowy Foothills Trails
- 9. Check Out an Ice Skating Rink
- 10. Warm Up with Idaho Wine or Craft Beer Tasting
1. Go Snow Tubing or Skiing at Bogus Basin
Just 40 minutes from downtown Boise, Bogus Basin is our local ski resort and winter playground. January is peak season for tubing, skiing, snowboarding, and Nordic trails. If you're not a skier, grab a ticket for the tubing hill or enjoy a scenic chairlift ride followed by hot cocoa in the lodge.
Pro Tip: Night skiing at Bogus is a totally different vibe. Fewer crowds, lights on the slopes, and the city glowing below you.
2. Experience Winter Garden aGlow at the Idaho Botanical Garden
Winter Garden aGlow typically runs into early January and is the perfect way to stretch the holiday magic. The Idaho Botanical Garden is covered in lights, synchronized displays, and cozy fire pits. It’s ideal for families or date night.
Don't Miss: Grab a warm drink from the onsite vendors and walk the luminary-lit paths after dark.
3. Soak in a Natural Hot Spring
There’s nothing more Idaho than soaking in a steaming hot spring while snowflakes fall around you. Kirkham Hot Springs is one of the most iconic, located just over two hours from Boise. You can also check out Gold Fork or The Springs in Idaho City for more developed, family-friendly options.
Local Secret: Go midweek to avoid the crowds and enjoy a quiet, starlit soak.
4. Cheer on the Idaho Steelheads
Catch an action-packed Idaho Steelheads game at Idaho Central Arena in downtown Boise. The energy is contagious and the games are surprisingly affordable for families or groups. It’s one of those events that turns a cold night into a memorable one.
Tip: Grab dinner beforehand at Fork or Bittercreek Alehouse just a few blocks away.
5. Explore Downtown Boise’s First Thursday (Jan 1, 2026)
First Thursday is a monthly tradition where art galleries, shops, and restaurants host special exhibits, live music, and pop-up experiences. Even in the winter, downtown comes alive with locals enjoying the crisp night air and Boise’s downtown charm.
Make It a Night: Park once and stroll the entire downtown core - you'll find something new every time.
6. Visit the World Center for Birds of Prey
Located just south of Boise, the World Center for Birds of Prey is open year-round and offers an amazing indoor-friendly experience during colder months. Learn about falcons, eagles, and other raptors with live presentations and a walk through the archives of conservation efforts worldwide.
Family Pick: The kid-friendly scavenger hunt makes this a great educational trip.
7. Cozy Up at a Local Coffee Roaster
January mornings are made for hot lattes and fresh pastries. Hit up some of Treasure Valley’s best local roasters like Form & Function , Push & Pour , or Flying M Coffee. Whether you're working remotely or just warming up, these places are community hubs.
Coffee Crawl: Try a new spot each week and bring a book, journal, or your laptop.
8. Hike the Snowy Foothills Trails
The Boise Foothills don’t shut down in winter. Bundle up and explore trails like Camel’s Back or Table Rock with fresh snow underfoot and great city views. If the trails are icy, wear traction cleats for safety.
Helpful trail links: Camel’s Back and Table Rock.
Keep in Mind: Early morning hikes usually mean better trail conditions and epic sunrise views over the valley.
9. Check Out an Ice Skating Rink
Lace up your skates at The Village at Meridian outdoor rink or at Indian Creek Plaza in Caldwell. Both locations offer rentals, music, lights, and fun for all ages.
Bonus: Indian Creek Plaza also hosts themed nights and often adds curling lanes if you want to try something new.
10. Warm Up with Idaho Wine or Craft Beer Tasting
The winter months are perfect for exploring Idaho’s fast-growing wine and beer scene. Visit Telaya Wine Co. along the Greenbelt in Garden City or head into downtown Boise for breweries like Payette Brewing and Clairvoyant Brewing.
Winter Vibe: Many tasting rooms have fireplaces or heated patios - perfect for a cozy afternoon with friends.
Final Thoughts
If you thought January in Idaho meant staying inside, think again. Treasure Valley is packed with winter charm, from snowy mountain adventures to cozy downtown date nights. Whether you're new to the area, visiting, or just trying to shake the post-holiday slump, these 10 activities will help you make the most of winter in Boise and beyond.
And if you’re thinking about making a more permanent move to Treasure Valley, I help families relocate here all the time. Reach out and I’d be happy to create a custom relocation plan that fits your lifestyle and budget.
Call or text Curtis Chism at (208) 510-0427
Email: info@chismteam.com
Ready to relocate remotely? Download our Boise Relocation Guide
