Dog parks in Boise: off-leash areas, trails, and rules

Where are the fenced dog parks in Boise?

The City of Boise has 8 fenced dog parks:

• Dog Island at Ann Morrison Park, near downtown
• Military Reserve Dog Park, in the East End
• Morris Hill Park, on the Bench
• Bowler Park
• Charles F. McDevitt Youth Sports Complex
• Mariposa Park
• Molenaar Park
• Pine Grove Park

Where else can dogs be off leash in Boise?

Boise has 11 more parks with off-leash areas: Ann Morrison Park, Castle Hills Park, Cypress Park, Manitou Park, Optimist Youth Sports Complex, Phillippi Park, Redwood Park, Simplot Sports Complex, Sunset Park, Williams Park, and Winstead Park.

Some of these are seasonal, including Ann Morrison Park, Optimist Youth Sports Complex, and Simplot Sports Complex. Check the City of Boise's off-leash page for current dates before you go.

Can dogs be off leash on Boise trails?

On many Ridge to Rivers trails in the foothills, yes. The rules:

• Carry a leash at all times.
• Keep your dog within 30 feet and under sight and voice control.
• Don't let your dog approach other people, wildlife, or other pets.

Some trails require a leash at all times, including the Camel's Back trail and all of Polecat Gulch Reserve. On City of Boise land, breaking a leash rule can bring an $81.50 fine.

What are the dog rules in Boise parks?

• Dogs must be on a leash unless the area is marked for off-leash use. That includes Greenbelt paths.
• Off leash, your dog should be under voice control.
• Carry a leash, and leash your dog when entering and leaving an off-leash area.
• Carry bags and pick up after your dog.
• Dogs must be licensed.

Do you need a dog license in Boise?

Yes. Every city in Ada County requires dogs to have and wear a license. Boise, Eagle, Meridian, Kuna, Garden City, and Star each issue their own licenses, and people in unincorporated Ada County buy a county license. In Boise you can buy one online or at several locations around the city. If you're moving here, get your dog licensed soon after you arrive.

Moving for Micron? My post on moving to Boise for Micron with a dog compares Boise's license fees with California, Oregon, and Washington.

Are there dog parks in Meridian and Eagle?

• Meridian has two off-leash dog parks, Storey Bark Park near downtown Meridian and Discovery Bark Park in south Meridian. Dogs must be on a leash in all other Meridian parks.
• Eagle Island State Park has a 212-acre off-leash dog area, along with a swimming beach and trails. It sits just west of the City of Eagle.

What should dog owners check before buying a home in Boise?

• HOA pet rules: some HOAs limit the number, size, or breed of pets. Read the rules before you make an offer.
• Condo rules: downtown buildings often have their own pet rules.
• Fencing: check the fence height and condition, and whether the HOA limits fence styles.
• Distance to the off-leash spots: if your dog needs to run every day, being a few minutes from a dog park or trailhead makes it easier.

Tell me about your dog, and I'll send you homes and neighborhoods that fit.