Idaho Patriot Thunder Ride to Impact I-84 Traffic on Sunday

If you’re planning to head eastbound on I-84 anywhere between Meridian and Mountain Home on Sunday, pack your patience. About 20 on ramps will be closed and traffic delays are expected.

The closures coincide with the 14th Annual Idaho Patriot Thunder Ride on Sunday, June 23. During the ride around 1,200 motorcyclists ride together from High Desert Harley-Davidson to Carl Miller Park in Mountain Home. The 55 mile ride is led by an Idaho State Police escort and the interstate is closed in order to allow the motorcyclists to stay together as a group safely.

Beau Maltby, Townsquare Media

While the Idaho Transportation Department hasn’t issued their official press release about the 2024 ride, they’ll traditionally start to slow eastbound traffic in Nampa at Northside before the ride begins. “Kickstands Up” is scheduled for 10 a.m. and the motorcyclists are expected to arrive in Mountain Home around 11:30 a.m.

ITD normally puts out their press release a few days before the ride, but based on the last thirteen years we expect the following on ramps to be closed as the ride passes by: Garrity Boulevard, Ten Mile Road, Meridian Road, Eagle Road, the I-184 Wye, Cole/Overland Road, Orchard Street, Vista Avenue, Broadway Avenue, Gowen Road, Eisenman Road, East Boise Rest Area, Blacks Creek Road, East Boise Port of Entry, Mayfield Road, Simco Road, I-84B/Old U.S. 30 (Exit 90) and Exit 95 in Mountain Home.

Beau Maltby, Townsquare Media

Those traveling surface streets to get around the interstate closures should prepare for congestion. Not only will motorists be using those alternate routes, spectators tend to gather safely on overpass sidewalks to cheer for the motorcyclists as they roll through. It’s a VERY COOL sight to see and will give you goosebumps!

What is the Idaho Patriot Thunder Ride?

The 55 mile ride is a major fundraiser for the Idaho Guard & Reserve, Family Support Fund and Operation Warmheart. Leading up to the ride, participants are treated to a first-come, first-serve breakfast at High Desert Harley-Davidson, a flyover organized by the Nampa Warhawk Museum and speeches from several VIPs.