If you are looking for a park where you are spared the hustle and bustle of cyclists, skaters, dogs and general human caused noise- Kathryn Albertson Park (KAP) is THE PLACE to be. I have been doing 5k walks in the Boise area for about a year now, so I have spent time in several parks (Ann Morrison, Julia Davis and Barber) and along the greenbelt. While all of those places offer wonderful scenery, basic amenities (bathrooms and parking) and a well maintained path/trail- they can be busy and very noisy. My husband and I were looking to take a stroll on Memorial Day and after checking with Yelp, decided to try KAP. I was especially excited (after checking the Boise Parks & Rec page) to find that cyclists, skaters (blade and board) and pets (from March 1 to June 30) are NOT allowed. Add in that it's a nature sanctuary with water and it seemed to be a WIN WIN WIN. I should clarify that the pet ban is what runs from March 1 to June 30th (due to bird nesting seasons) and that AFTER June 30th dogs are allowed, but MUST be leashed.
Besides the well laid out trails, there are areas where one can meander into the foliage for a shaded rest, or to get a closer view of flora and fauna. Geese are on hand providing sentinel service AND lawn trimming! (*wink). Ample signage throughout the park provides information on the same flora and fauna. We saw turtles in one of the ponds, ducks with ducklings, geese with goslings and even a doe! Yes, yes.. the geese can be a bit scary and the excrement is an issue, but it's easily dealt with if you don't panic, watch your step and perhaps have something to scrape off your shoes with before you get in your car.
My husband is not one of those 'enjoy time out in nature' types.. I'm really not either, but I can easily visualize going back with a book and finding a sweet spot to spend some time in! I must also say that the restrooms are well maintained and clean, it's a real toilet in a brick building with a sink for hand washing. NO PAPER TOWELS though so be prepared to let your hands air dry or pack some in with you. Go check this park out for an 'out of city' experience within the very heart of Boise- you'll be glad you did! read more