Planning your engagement session and dreaming of somewhere breathtaking, joyful, and uniquely you? You’re in the right place. Boise and the surrounding areas are filled with jaw-dropping summer locations, from sweeping mountain backdrops to golden sand dunes and secret garden paths. Whether you're imagining an epic desert sunset or riverside stroll, this guide will help you find a location that matches your love story.

After years of photographing couples in every season and every corner of Idaho, I’ve curated this list of top spots for unforgettable summer engagement photos. These places aren’t just beautiful—they’re filled with light, texture, and movement. They invite you to twirl barefoot, chase the light, and laugh until your cheeks hurt. Let’s dive in.

Boise couple run through grasses, the woman is pulling the man forward. Their energy and joyfulness is capture in the motion blur of the photo. — Photo by Katy Kahla Photography

1. Bruneau Sand Dunes

If you’re dreaming of a session that feels straight out of a romantic desert adventure, Bruneau Sand Dunes is your spot. Just under two hours from Boise, this natural wonder features the tallest single-structured sand dune in North America. Summer evenings here glow gold, the wind sculpts dreamy patterns in the sand, and the wide-open sky creates a surreal, cinematic vibe.

Whether you’re running barefoot across the ridges, snuggling into a blanket at the top, or playing in the soft dune shadows, it’s an unforgettable location for couples who love wide horizons and wild-hearted moments. Want to uplevel the advenutre? Plan to spend the night at one of the many campgrounds and enjoy the Milky Way overhead. Bruneau officially received its Dark Sky Certification in 2024 making it the ideal location for stunning night photography.

Pro tip: Plan your session at golden hour and bring plenty of water—it can get hot, but the results? Stunning.

2. Boise River Greenbelt

Right in the heart of the city, the Boise River offers a peaceful, romantic backdrop with lush trees, gentle flowing water, and sun-dappled paths. Summer brings out the best of the greenbelt—long light, vibrant foliage, and that perfect mix of nature-meets-urban charm. The river typically opens July 4th for floating, so keep in mind that water levels will gently recede as the summer wanes on.

This spot is perfect for couples who want to stay local but still feel immersed in nature. Whether you're walking hand-in-hand along the water, skipping rocks, or cozying up on a riverside bench, the Boise River gives off relaxed, connected vibes every time.

Love a candid, playful session? Bring a picnic blanket and your favorite drinks for an end-of-session toast by the river.

3. Table Rock

One of Boise’s most iconic landmarks, Table Rock offers panoramic views of the Treasure Valley that are next-level at sunset. With golden grasses, sweeping rock faces, and that killer view of the city below, it’s ideal for couples who want a little hike and a whole lot of magic. While this location was once accessible by car, you’ll want to bring a good pair of hiking boots. The only way you’re making it to the top is with your own two feet.

This location blends adventure with elegance, especially in the golden light of summer. I love photographing couples here who want to feel on top of the world—because you literally will be. It is also one of the few locations I love at both sunrise and sunset. There is nothing quiet as magically as watching the sun rise over the foothills and slowly drench the city in golden light. It really is worth the early wake up time (think 4 am! 😱)

Bonus: If we time it right, we can catch the full sunset and the twinkling lights of Boise just starting to glow in the background.

4. Idaho Botanical Gardens

For couples looking for something more intimate, colorful, and garden-inspired, Idaho Botanical Garden is the place to go. Summer brings out the roses, native wildflowers, tall grasses, and shaded walkways that make every photo look like a still from a romantic film. The stone gazebo surrounded by towering trees and lush greenery feels like a scene out of your favorite European romance novel.

Tucked right beneath the foothills, it offers so many backgrounds in one spot—from hidden nooks to grand willow trees to vibrant florals. It’s ideal for couples who want something soft, elegant, and wildly romantic. The garden is open on select days throughout the week at closes at 5 pm, expect an earlier and weekday photo shoot to accommodate this.

Heads up: The garden charges a small photography fee, but it’s well worth it for the variety and the peaceful atmosphere.

5. Stanley Idaho

Okay—this one’s a drive, but oh wow, it is so worth it. About three hours from Boise, Stanley is nestled in the Sawtooth Mountains and feels like something out of a postcard. Think glacier lakes, alpine meadows, jagged peaks, and blue skies that stretch for miles. Pioneer Park is one of my favorite locations, offering breathtaking views of the Sawtooths (in fact is the view of my logo!). But if you’re up for a little hike, Alice Lake has to be the most iconic alpine lake in Idaho, well worth the 6-mile trek.

Stanley is perfect for couples who want to make their engagement session part of a weekend getaway. We’ll hike a little, laugh a lot, and create photos that feel as big and bold as your love story.

Dreaming of an adventure session? This is the place. Kayaks, cozy cabins, starry skies—it’s all on the table.

lgbtq couple stand over looking downtown boise. one man is snuggled into the other shoulder. they look content and happy — Photo by Katy Kahla Photography

Your Love Story Deserves a Location That Matches Its Magic

The right location does more than look pretty—it sets the tone, captures your connection, and brings your personality to life. Whether you’re barefoot in the dunes, dancing under the pines, or sharing an inside joke by the river, I’m here to help you feel present, joyful, and totally yourselves.

If you’re not sure which spot fits your vibe, I’d love to help you decide! Your love story is one of a kind, and your photos should be too.

📸 Let’s plan something epic 👇

Let's Connect