The Boise River zone is comprised entirely of unit 39 and is located on the northeast side of the city of Boise. Both over the counter and controlled hunting options are found here with the best odds for success being found on controlled hunts. Good numbers of elk are present in the unit but the OTC hunts can draw large crowds. Public access is excellent and hunters can find plenty of terrains to explore.
The Boise Mountains take up most of the area and are steep with ridges, canyons and draws running in every direction. Land near Interstate 84 between Boise and Mountain Home is mostly flat to rolling with treeless, undulating plains and arid foothills above. The foothills are treeless and covered with brush and grass. Some high country is fairly open with sparse trees and low brush. Excellent glassing opportunities can be found in most locations but there is enough heavy tree cover to provide security for herds.
Public access is excellent throughout the unit although later in the year many elk will be found along private lands on the southeastern end of the area. County roads provide access to most of the high country and many OHV trails can be found throughout. Researching motor vehicle use maps can greatly aid hunters in locating more remote locations.