
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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Where to Stay in Boise, Idaho: Best Neighborhoods & Hotels (Local Guide)
Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the blog below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links…
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Best Hikes Near Boise, Idaho: Local Favorites for Every Season
Most people know there are a lot of great hikes near Boise, but it took me a while to find…
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Best Pumpkin Patches Near Boise, Idaho (2026 Local Guide)
Fall in Idaho is literally my favorite season everrrr! The crisp mornings, changing leaves, pumpkin spice lattes (!!), and weekends…

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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City Guide: What to Do in Paris
City Guide: What to Do in Paris Traveling to Paris anytime soon? Well, you’ve come to the right place because…
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Guide to Hiking the Inca Trail: Tips and Packing List
Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one of the most popular treks in Peru, with thousands of visitors…
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The Best Places to Visit in Sandpoint Idaho
Sandpoint, Idaho is one of those special places you have to visit at least once in your life to see…
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What to Pack for Alaska in the Summer
Heading to Alaska in the summer and not sure what to pack? You’ve come to the right place. During the…
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What to Expect on the 4th of July in Tahoe
Thinking about spending the Fourth of July in Lake Tahoe? You’re in for a treat! This blog is your heads-up…

