The Barber Valley area of Boise is technically east Boise, but with the growth and abundance of things to do, it deserves its own spotlight. With the foothills, the Boise River, the Greenbelt and access to State Highway 21, it’s no wonder why people are calling this area home.
Barber Park is one of the main attractions in the area. Located along the Boise River about five miles southeast of downtown Boise, this is the park where thousands of people launch to float the river during the summer. The park has six pad areas located east of the Boise River rafting area. Some have barbecue areas and there is also a picnic shelter with a barbecue.
Barber Park is also an excellent place to watch for wildlife. Ada County says there are over 121 species of birds that live at the park, as well as mule and whitetail deer, beavers, raccoons and mink. Because of this, all pets must be kept on a leash while in the park.
The Barber Valley area is also home to the 712-acre Barber Pool Conservation Area. This area is home to over 300 species of animals and birds, and is located between the Harris Ranch development and the Highway 21 bridge. The majority of the land is owned by the Idaho Foundation for Parks and Lands, most of which was gifted by Boise Cascade almost 40 years ago.
Barber Valley also hosts the largest wintering deer herd in the state of Idaho, according to the city of Boise.
The community is also just minutes away from Bown Crossing, which offers shopping and dining options like Boise Fry Company and Cravin’s Candy Emporium, plus more coming to the area soon. We are excited to have a new Ramen and Taco/Tequila restaurant open here soon! There’s also the historical home, Bown House, which the area is named after and is located on the campus of Riverside Elementary School.
Those who live in the area have easy access to the Boise River Greenbelt, which provides the perfect opportunity for walking, running and biking at all times of the year. The foothills are also easily accessible, providing a desirable exercise option for people of all ages, or even birdwatchers.
There is some fun history with the Barbery Valley area as well. It used to be home to the town of Barberton, which was shortened to Barber in 1909 by the post office. It was a company mill town and with 650 residents, it was the largest city in Ada County at the time. In 1935, the Barber mill was shut down and the town was torn down with many of the homes then being moved to Boise.
What is your favorite part of Barber Valley? Let us know in the comments.
If you ever have any questions about the ever-changing marketplace or know someone looking to buy or sell, please do not hesitate to reach out!
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