Pocatello Parks & Recreation Department

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Parks & Recreation

208-234-6232

The Parks and Recreation Department strives to serve the Pocatello community with quality recreation programs, well-maintained parks, trails, and beautiful open spaces. Our aim is to help provide opportunities, activities and the facilities to bring pleasure to people’s lives. Our parks serve as a source of great community pride, and we are firm believers in the benefits recreation brings to both the years in one’s life and the life in those years.

Register for Pocatello Parks and Recreation Activities
Pocatello Parks and Recreation Activity Guide
Pocatello Parks and Facilities
Pocatello Community Recreation Center
Pocatello Ross Park Aquatic Complex
Pocatello East Fork Mink Creek Nordic Center

Play Often, Live Better!

Have you caught the fever? Do you have an extra spring in your step? When you step into the sunshine, does it make you smile? Do you find yourself daydreaming about outdoor adventures? If so, you may have been struck with spring fever! Fortunately, the antidote for this condition does not require an inoculation or rest in bed, and the best vitamin to treat the fever is Vitamin D – AKA, the sunshine vitamin. Capitalize on this surge of energy that spring brings and enjoy the great outdoors.

With more than two dozen parks to choose from, there are plenty of places for a picnic blanket and lunch, to throw a frisbee, or to walk in the lush green grass. City parks are an ideal location for friends to gather, to host a family reunion, or to meet new people.

Perhaps the ball park is more to your liking. There are team sports options for youth and adults alike. Are you over 50? Southeast Idaho Senior Games is a great opportunity for some competition and camaraderie with its over 220 events in 30 different venues.

Are you a climber? The lava rocks at lower Ross Park have become a popular place for individuals to learn and practice climbing. Just a beginner? Try out the indoor climbing wall at the Community Recreation Center that offers the safety and security of a controlled environment with staff supervision.

Are you a runner, jogger, fast walker, or meanderer? The Portneuf Valley Fun Run Series offers events for everyone during the spring and summer months. Information and registration can be found on the City’s website at www.pocatello.gov.

Don’t miss the best parts of spring and summer this year. Make it your goal to Play Often, Live Better! And, remember, it is always better with a buddy. Invite someone to join in your outdoor adventures.

As always, I am proud to be your mayor!
 
Mayor Blad
City of Pocatello

Message from the Director

On behalf of the Parks & Recreation Department Staff Team, welcome to the City of Pocatello’s Spring/Summer 2023 programs and services! We invite everyone to get outdoors and “Play Often, Live Better” this Spring & Summer at our beautiful parks, open spaces, and scenic Greenway Trails to enjoy the fresh air, green grass, and warm, sunny days with family and friends. How about these great ways to spend time with those you love, and establish a healthy routine together?

  • “Go on a Walk” – at one of the City’s Greenway trails, a City Creek/Mink Creek nature hike, or just a stroll through the park will have you smiling in no time.
  • “Make a Splash” – at our Ross Park Aquatic Complex and Community Recreation Center, or sign up for some swim lessons.
  • “Get Your Game On” – sign up for a sports league, a Fun Run/Walk event or outdoor adventure, or enjoy a pick-up game at a local park with family & friends.
  • “Visit a Playground” – the City’s awesome Playgrounds have so much more to offer than just swing sets, explore the community for Playgrounds that bring all generations together.
  • “Got Wheels?” – visit our local Skate Park at Lower Ross, or try one of the City’s superb Greenway Trails, they’re paved and easy to get around on for bicyclists & skaters alike.
  • “Plan a Day or Night Out for the Whole Family” – nothing says summertime like a picnic at the park, or a relaxing day together at Zoo Idaho followed by a free Municipal Band Concert at the Ross Park Bandshell.
  • “Calling all Furry Friends” – try checking out the City’s Historic Downtown Dog Park and Katie’s Dog Park as well.

Great places to meet new friends!

Whether your interests lie in exploring nature and fitness, special events, cultural arts, or sports and aquatics, all are encouraged to take full advantage of the endless quality of life and well-being benefits our Parks & Recreation Department facilities and programs have to offer!

Other exciting developments…The City of Pocatello Parks & Recreation has entered into a partnership agreement with Idaho Central Credit Union to provide construction resources for a new Community Splashpad Facility. The “Idaho Central Credit Union Community Splashpad” at OK Ward Park will provide approximately 2,700 square feet of play zone, including a variety of above ground and ground level features, and associated mechanical, electrical, pumping, and filtration systems to meet water treatment standards, as well as an additional concrete pad area for parents and family members to gather, observe and interact. Construction is slated to begin in Summer 2023, with project completion and Splashpad opening ASAP thereafter. A huge THANK YOU to Idaho Central Credit Union for helping the Parks & Recreation Department accomplish this wonderful amenity for the community! Stay tuned for ground-breaking celebration details.

There really is something for everyone at Pocatello Parks & Recreation. Please invite your friends & loved ones to enjoy the great gifts of spending time together, and make Spring & Summer 2023 one to remember, by Playing Often and Living Better!

Anne Butler
Parks & Recreation Director
City of Pocatello