
Welcome!
to the Traveling Spud Blog
I’m Katie, the voice behind The Traveling Spud! Your go-to resource for Boise travel guides, Idaho weekend getaways, family-friendly adventures, and easy escapes from the Pacific Northwest. Here you’ll find curated itineraries, local favorites, unique stays, and practical travel tips to help you plan your next trip with confidence.
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Explore Boise & Idaho Guides
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The Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic: Boise’s Annual Hot Air Balloon Celebration
This event is one of my absolute favorites in Boise! If you’ve never seen the sky filled with dozens of…
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Idaho Botanical Garden in Boise: What to Know Before You Visit
If you live in Boise long enough, like me, the Idaho Botanical Garden becomes one of those places you return…
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15 Best Restaurants in Boise (Updated 2026)
I am a big foodie and love finding the newest and hottest restaurants in Boise (the largest city in Idaho)…

Hi, I’m Katie
The face behind the traveling spud
Once a full-time solo traveler and tech professional in San Francisco, I now call Boise, Idaho home — balancing global adventures with building a life and raising my family in the Pacific Northwest.
I’ve traveled to over 40 countries and continue to explore both international destinations and the best weekend getaways across Idaho and the western U.S. From off-the-beaten-path experiences to practical family travel tips, I share real itineraries, honest recommendations, and lessons learned along the way.
My guides have helped thousands of readers plan trips to Boise, Idaho, and destinations around the world.
I’m goofy, not always put together, and fully committed to living big, whether that means crossing off a bucket-list trip or discovering a hidden gem close to home.
Idaho Travel
BOISE / SOUTHERN IDAHO / CENTRAL IDAHO / NORTHERN IDAHO / MOUNTAIN TOWNS
Recent Travels and Adventures!
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The Best Sunrise Hike Above the Golden Gate Bridge
After living in San Francisco for 5 years I learned to love the hikes in San Francisco and Marin County!…
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Steak-Out Soiree: A Dinner with the Idaho Beef Council and Coynes
You may think of Idaho for its potatoes and potatoes alone. But did you know that beef is actually the…
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Cascade Idaho: The Ultimate 3-Day Winter Itinerary
Psst: I use affiliate links on my site. If you make a purchase through them, I may receive a small…
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The Ultimate 9 Day Alaska Itinerary
Need the perfect Alaska Itinerary for your upcoming trip? I’ve got you covered. I waited my whole life for my…
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Jackson Hole Getaway: The Lodge at Jackson Hole
Looking for a weekend escape? Nestled in the mountains of Jackson Hole, The Lodge at Jackson Hole is the perfect…
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![A Weekend in Thousand Springs State Park [Tips for Camping, Kayaking & Hiking]](https://www.travelingspud.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/8-10.png)
A Weekend in Thousand Springs State Park [Tips for Camping, Kayaking & Hiking]
After growing up the majority of my life in Southern Idaho, I’ve been to Thousand Springs State Park many times.…
