The Boise Goathead Festival returns

By Gemma Gaudette,

Published August 18, 2023 at 1:34 PM MDT

A goathead plant, with its spiny fruit visible in the center of the image. The fruits break into several nutlets, each of which contains seeds and has thumbtack-sharp spines.

Getting a flat tire on your bike from a goathead is a summer time rite of passage in Idaho.

These spikey plants are public enemy number one for many outdoor enthusiasts, which is why Jimmy Hallyburton, founder of the Boise Bicycle Project, came up with the idea of the Boise Goathead Festival. He sat down with Morning Edition host George Prentice to talk about this event, as well as the increase of bicycle versus vehicle crashes.

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Gemma Gaudette

Hi! I’m Gemma Gaudette, the host of the award-winning show, Idaho Matters. During the day you’ll find me researching and writing about all the fascinating topics we tackle on our show. And of course, at noon, each weekday you’ll find me live behind the microphone as Idaho Matters airs.

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George Prentice

As host of Morning Edition, I'm the luckiest person I've ever known because I spend my days listening to smart, passionate, engaging people. It’s a public trust. I lean in to talk with actors, poets, writers and volunteers who make Idaho that much more special.

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The Boise Goathead Festival returns

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