
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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18 Winter Car Camping Essentials
Sometimes, you just want to enjoy the outdoors, even in the middle of winter. While camping during the winter with…
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18 Best National Parks To Visit In Winter
If you’re looking for some National Parks to visit in the winter, you’ve come to the right place. After all,…
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75+ Best Things to Do in Boise, Idaho By Season From a Local
Planning a trip and wondering what to do in Boise, Idaho? You are in the right place. As a local…
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What to Know Before Hiking Box Canyon Springs Trail
This is a guest post brought to you by Heather, owner of The Editors Touch and Boise, Idaho local. Heather…
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The 18 Best Restaurants in McCall, Idaho 2026
McCall, Idaho, is a small mountain resort town just 2 hours north of Boise, Idaho, and is one of my…
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La Jolla Travel Guide: Where to Eat, Stay, and Play
La Jolla, California, is a dream and is also one of the most popular vacation destinations in the country! While…
