Southern Idaho is defined by extremes: Raging waters, tall peaks, vast deserts. So it probably shouldn’t come as a surprise that its residents love extreme sports that push their limits. This summer, you can experience two popular events that test athletes from the safety of your lawn chair.
Wake In the Snake
This grassroots wakeboarding competition on the mighty Snake River was born more than 20 years ago and now attracts athletes from throughout the country to River’s Edge Golf Course in Burley. Competitors range from kids under 11 to veteran wakeboarders, and the action is non-stop — many attendees choose to camp or stay at hotels in Burley, Declo, and Heyburn so they never miss a moment. There are plenty of shady spots along the river to set up your fan base — the action starts at 9 a.m., so get there early!
July 13, River’s Edge Golf Course, 131 E. Idaho 81, Burley
Spudman Triathlon
The Spudman — one of the biggest triathlons in Idaho — is a family-friendly race that also attracts athletes who love to push the limits of their endurance. Cheer on competitors as they plunge into the Snake River for a 1.5 km swim, a 40 km bike ride, and a 10k run through the Burley countryside. New this year is the Spudman Sprint, a shortened course for folks who don’t wish to compete in the traditional Olympic-length course. Hoping to set your own new PR? You’ll have to wait until next year — this popular event fills up fast, and 2019 registration is already full.
July 27, Burley.
Wings for Love World Cup BASE Jump Competition
Some of the world’s finest BASE jumpers will descend on Twin Falls in mid-September for an epic four days of death-defying plummets into the Snake River Canyon. The winner will walk off with a championship title and cash prizes up to $3,000. If you’ve never been a spectator at a BASE jump before, now is your chance! You can watch the action from the Perrine Bridge, the Twin Falls Visitor Center, or the walking path along the canyon rim. This is the first competition of its kind in Twin Falls, so you won’t want to miss a single jump!
September 11-14, I.B. Perrine Bridge, Twin Falls.