Buy Tires on Sale in Boise: But Not Until You’ve Read This Guide!

Boise only has a small population but recent studies indicate that despite its size, it still has a rush hour traffic problem, almost as bad as anywhere else in the nation. For this reason, be sure to always check the following live traffic reports before making any important journey:

• Local Conditions: Boise Road Conditions with Driving and Traffic Flow
• KTVB7: Road Reports Boise ID
• Idaho News 6: Traffic

In the City of Trees, it’s not easy to predict snowstorms, but one thing’s for sure, they will happen at some point during winter. The average, yearly snowfall in Boise, ID is 18 inches so a set of winter tires is nothing short of essential.

Winter driving

Snowfall in winter can be unpredictable and surprising. Don’t get caught out driving on icy roads with inappropriate tires. As soon as the average daily temperature falls below 45 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s time to switch over to those grippier winter tires with softer rubber compounds and deeper tread patterns. The cold season usually lasts for around 3 months, from mid-November through mid-February.

Studdable tires are also a good tire choice in the harsh winter months because they offer the flexibility to add and remove around a hundred metal studs to your tires, as and when they’re needed. The studs act like velcro gripping onto uneven icy roads, giving the driver increased control and traction but once the roads thawed, with a bit of patience they can easily be removed. Studdable tires are permitted in Boise, ID between October 1st and April 30th

Summer driving

Summer usually hits The City of Trees sometime in June and lasts through September. Whilst the roads are hot and temperatures climb upwards of 80 degrees fahrenheit, long-lasting all-season tires are the most economical choice for the average driver. In fact, by choosing all-season tires that are M&S rated, Boise drivers can use all-season tires year-round, except during the winter months of November to February.

1. Drink Driving: Like many other states, the BAC (blood alcohol content) limit for driving in Boise is 0.08
2. Seatbelts: Both passengers and drivers must wear seatbelts at all times, no matter where they are sitting in the vehicle
3. Speed limits: Unless otherwise posted the speed limit in Boise is between 55 and 70 miles per hour
4. Valid papers: All Boise drivers must carry valid registration and insurance with them. If you’re caught driving without them, you could be subject to a $1,000 fine
5. Left on red: It’s legal to turn left at a red light!

In Bobo, there are several parking laws that drivers need to be aware of:

• Handicapped spots: It’s illegal to park in a handicapped spot without a valid permit. Drivers who park in these spots without a permit can be fined $250
• Downtown parking: As with many city centers, Boise city center is now full of parking meters. There’s generally a two-hour time limit for parking in metered spots
• Overnight parking: It’s prohibited to park overnight on city streets to keep streets clear for emergency vehicles
• Park facing travel direction: Always park on streets facing the direction you are traveling
• Stop and yield signs: It’s prohibited to park within 30 feet of a stop or yield sign

Window tint laws for sedans, vans, and SUVs vary from state to state. Before tinting your vehicle windows in Boise, make sure you’re across the following rules and regulations:

• Windshields can only be tinted in the top 6 inches
• Front windows must let in more than 35% of light
• Rear windows need to allow more than 20% of light in
• Reflective tints must allow more than 35% of light in

There are a couple of exceptions to these rules. For example, if you have a particular medical condition, it’s possible to get a medical exemption that allows a greater percentage of tint on your windows. No specific tint colors are banned in Boise.

Read more about the process and timeframe for getting your windows tinted. Get updates on the latest regulations, read reviews, get pro tips, and much more!

Helmets are one of the most important tools to protect cyclists and motorbike drivers from serious head injuries. However, states don’t always enforce helmet-wearing laws. In Boise, ID:

• Motorcycle helmets are legally required for under 18 drivers but not mandatory for adults
• Bicycle helmets are a legal requirement for under 18’s but not for adults

The City of Trees population has increased by over 8% in the past decade. With growth, so comes the need for major roads and highways to accommodate the increased traffic. Here are the most important roads and highways to be aware of:

Interstates

I-84 connects the city of Boise with other parts of the state, as well as with Oregon and Utah. It is one of the most heavily traveled roads in the state but also one of the most scenic

I-186 is a major east-west highway that connects Boise, the state capital, with the Idaho Falls area. The highway is also known as the Yellowstone Highway

The Boise Connector

US-20, also known as the Boise Connector, is a freeway in the US state of Idaho, that connects Interstate I-84 in Boise to US-95 near Parma. The freeway runs for approximately 20 miles and is entirely within Ada County. US-20 was constructed in stages between 1966 and 1986. The freeway carries a significant amount of traffic, with an average of 42,000 vehicles per day in 2017.

Downtown Traffic Hotspots

Anyone who has ever driven in downtown Boise during rush hour knows that it can be a challenge. Traffic tends to back up at key intersections, and finding a parking spot can be nearly impossible. At peak times, be sure to avoid the following roads and hotspots:

• The intersection of Capitol Boulevard and Main Street
• Front Street between Sixth and Eighth Streets
• Eighth Street between Main and Grove

While Boise may not be the first city that comes to mind when planning a road trip, it has a lot to offer in terms of scenic drives. For breathtaking views of the Boise River and the surrounding foothills, head to Bogus Basin Road. This winding mountain road is a popular spot for cyclists and hikers, and it's also a great place to take a leisurely drive. Another option is Whitewater Park Boulevard, which offers stunning views of the Boise River as it flows through downtown. This route also takes you past some of the city's popular parks, making it a great option for a family outing. And for a truly unique experience, try driving up Table Rock Road. This steep and winding road will take you to the top of Table Rock, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Boise and the surrounding area.

Read more about scenic drives in and around the Boise area. Get information on where to start and end your drive, as well as focal points along the way!