Boise, ID

With the crazy spring weather the Treasure Valley had been experiencing, and another 20 degree drop in temp forcasted for the following day, who knew when it might be warm enough to venture outside again. My kids and I decided to grab the opportunity for a morning outing to check out the new greenbelt along Indian Creek in downtown Caldwell, and spent a pleasant hour or so meandering, sitting on rocks, and generally getting the feel of the place. The very first thing we spotted was a fountain, which my daughter immediately decided to make her project for the day. She’s making a nature journal, Kindergarten-style, and the fountain became the subject of her picture for a new entry.Once that was completed, we walked the length of the greenbelt in each direction, crossing the bridges several times and even catching a good view of the train as it sped through on its morning run.
As it was a breezy Tuesday morning, not too many people were out so we shared our adventure with one fisherman and a woman walking a small but very “ferocious” dog.

After our walk, we hopped in the car and drove back around to the water wheel, also on Indian Creek.

We watched it turn, saw a couple ducks bobbing along, and threw grass in the water to watch it float away.The Indian Creek project is part of the revitalization of downtown Caldwell, and is a beautiful focal point for whatever development is forthcoming. It was a great place to get the wiggles out, and water and bridges are always a hit with kids. For those without kids, it’s a nice little half-mile oasis in the middle of town, perfect for a stroll or even a bike ride. And for a little bit longer walk, the other open area with the water wheel is only about a block on down the street. The entire path is a wide, paved sidewalk and with a little assistance, even the wheelchair-bound could enjoy some fresh air and water music.

Being a picnic connoisseur, I can’t help but hope for a few tables to eventually dot the landscape. But whether that ever happens or not, on a warmer day the perfect addition to this outing would be a stop just up the street at the Hamburger Connection for lunch or at least one of their world famous milkshakes. This little drive-up is a favorite in the area, and if you like thick milkshakes, you have to stop in! Fresh banana is one of my favorites, but with almost every flavor imaginable, there’s something for every taste.

The Indian Creek Greenbelt runs along Arthur Street in Caldwell, and parking can be accessed by going North on 5th or 6th Streets off of Blaine. If you decide to grab a milkshake, the drive-up is on 10th and Dearborn, about 3 blocks south of the waterwheel.