Best Boise Neighborhoods: Surprise Valley
Surprise Valley is one of those Boise neighborhoods that regularly tops the best Boise neighborhoods list. And it’s no wonder with its beautiful views of the Barber valley below and close proximity to literally everything. Homes in Surprise Valley are just minutes from downtown Boise and also close to Lucky Peak Reservoir and all of the various hiking and biking trails tucked into the Boise foothills.
Like most of East Boise, you’ll find a focus on blending urban life with all that the Idaho outdoors have to offer. The neighborhood features numerous bike and walking trails along with lots of open common area, which makes this Southeast Boise neighborhood such a desirable location to live in Boise. The majority of the homes were built in the 1990’s, so it’s a well-established neighborhood with mature landscaping.
The neighborhood features lots of amenities including a clubhouse with a community fitness room and event space, two pools plus a kiddie pool, tennis courts and a community garden. The Boise Green Belt, a 25-mile trail that runs along the Boise River, is close by so you can ride to one of the nearby parks or for a bite to eat!
Because the neighborhood is essentially on the edge of the Boise bench, many of the homes back up against wide open spaces with beautiful views of the Barber Valley!
Surprise Valley is comprised of several neighborhoods with single family homes and an old -fashioned community feel, plus 70 condos. This is also one of the top neighborhoods for Micron Technology employees because of its proximity to the Micron headquarters.
Barber Park is nearby; a city park tucked against the Boise River and the starting point for floating the Boise River. In addition, the new Boiler Park is within Surprise Valley and features a huge playground, dog park and a small skate park.
Where is Surprise Valley in Boise?
The northern edge of the neighborhood overlooks the Harris Ranch area with the foothills in the distance, snow-capped in the winter and green in the summer and spring. To the south are some natural bluffs that help the neighborhood feel like a hidden gem. It’s a beautiful location to live in Boise and homes typically sell fast.
What neighborhoods are included in Surprise Valley?
Daybreak
Homestead Rim
Surprise Valley
The Overlook (condominiums)
What are the Harris Ranch public schools?
Surprise Valley Elementary Schools:
Riverside Elementary School
Trail Wind Elementary
Sage International Charter School
Surprise Valley Middle School:
East Junior High School
Surprise Valley High School:
Timberline High School
What are the best restaurants near Surprise Valley?
Just down the street from Surprise Valley is Bown Crossing, a shopping and dining center with lots of options for many different tastes. Here are a few to check out both in Bown Crossing and nearby to Surprise Valley:
Boise Fry Company - Six different kinds of fries with numerous dipping sauces and seasonings
Flatbread Pizza - Unique flatbread pizzas and local brews.
Locavore - Local bistro with a focus on from-scratch, healthy wholesome meals.
Lost Shack - Sushi and beer.
Lulu’s Pizza & Sushi - A unique offering to meet everyone’s needs. And it’s delicious.
Tavern at Bown Crossing - Steak, Seafood and Burgers
Just south of Surprise Valley you can catch Federal Way which also has many more places to eat, grocery stores and gas stations. So although the neighborhood is tucked into the bench into a little pocket above Barber Valley, it’s got everything you need close at hand.
There’s a reason Surprise Valley is one of the most popular neighborhoods in Boise. It’s close to downtown for commuting or fun, yet tucked away enough to feel like an old fashioned community. In the evening you’ll find families out riding bikes, or walking the dog, and neighbors are friendly and focused on creating a great place to live in Boise.
Check out more Boise Neighborhoods here.