You didn’t have to look at the calendar to know that summer has arrived in Boise, Idaho. While we’re only a few days past the “official” start of summer on June 21, the heat of the season has arrived, and we are probably going to have many consecutive days of triple-digit temperatures. The projection of consistently high temperatures has caused Idaho Power to ask residents to “be conservative” in their use of air conditioners. Brown outs are predicted where there is not enough energy in the power grid to supply all the energy demands.
It’s Hot; What Can We Do?
An escape into the mountains usually helps you find cooler temperatures. We like to go to McCall at different times of the year. If you are not very familiar with the McCall area, I’d suggest you go to the Visit McCall website to see what activities are in store for the time you’ll be there. There are a variety of watersports available during the summer. A few of them are SUP (Stand Up Paddleboarding), canoeing on the lake, rafting, kayaking, and even taking a relaxing lake cruise where all you have to do is sit back and watch the scenery.
If you don’t want to head north to McCall, and camping is more of your thing, you can go camping. Our favorite Forest Service campground is the Ten Mile Campground which is, oddly enough, ten miles north of Idaho City on highway 21. There is a total of sixteen camping spots on both sides of the highway, and we’ve stayed in both areas. The spots on the left side of the road (as you head north) are a bit more secluded, and there is a small stream that flows through the area. Some of the camping spots on the right side of the road are right next to Mores Creek. the sound of the running water is very relaxing. The one drawback is that the sites are below highway level, meaning that you do hear the cars and trucks as they go by. The camping fee is $15.00 per night per site.
If you own your own swimming pool or there is one in the complex where you live, then you are probably enjoying a refreshing dip in the water every day during this heat spell. Most of us don’t have a pool, so the best option for swimming is in one of the city pools. The City of Boise website for pools lists seven pools that are open to the public.
The pools are
- · Boise City Aquatics Center
- · Borah Pool
- · Fairmont Pool
- · Ivywild Pool
- · Lowell Pool
- · Natatorium Pool and Hydrotube
- · South Pool
You must obtain a pool pass prior to visiting one of the city pools; the cost is $15.00, but free for those over the age of 65. Also, there are current attendance restrictions that are in place due to the Covid-19 pandemic. It is very advisable to check the website and even call the pool you are interested in attending to check on their current attendance and limits.
No matter what you do to “beat the heat,” it is very important to stay hydrated, wear a head covering, and use sunscreen if you are going to be outside for more than twenty minutes. Drink lots of water and avoid excessive alcoholic beverages especially when you are in the direct heat. Also keep in mind that animals and young children are more susceptible to heat issues than adults. Make sure that your pets have a supply of fresh water fi they are outside, and do not leave them (or children) in a car while you park to go shopping, visiting friends, etc. The inside of any vehicle will be tens of degrees hotter than the outside temperature.