Just a few hundred miles to the east of Bend, Oregon is Boise, Idaho. Boise has a large regional airport and many of those who wish to travel to Central Oregon make a stop in Idaho's Capital City. This modern large metropolitan's cityscape sits against undeveloped foothills. Boise offers a four-season climate and easy access to all types of year round activities.

Boise is also known as the City of Trees and as such, there are many tree-lined historic areas within the city. Here you will also find museums, urban parks, and a river flowing through the center of the City. Along the river, you can enjoy a twenty-five mile greenbelt designed for walking, biking and river enjoyment. Some unusual sites in the Boise area include a Basque museum and cultural center, a nature center, a memorial to Anne Frank, and a center for the birds of prey.

After spending a few days in Boise, it is an easy and scenic drive to Bend and Central Oregon. For approximately five hours, you will wind your way through forested mountains and across valleys, and view some of the most scenic areas in Oregon.