Treasure Valley sunshine dominates this capital city of 236,000, where high desert climate delivers 300 days of sun annually despite cold winter temperatures. January lows average 24°F while July peaks near 92°F, with only 12 inches of annual precipitation concentrated in winter and spring. The Boise River provides a green corridor through otherwise arid landscape, while the Boise Front mountains rise dramatically to the north. Technology companies and government employment drive growth in this increasingly diverse city that's shed its small-town image.