Boise Whitewater Park
Boise, ID
Opened in 2012, the Boise Whitewater Park in North End Boise is a working irrigation diversion structure on the Boise River that also happens to be an urban white-water park. The park currently features two phases of adjustable waves for kayaking, surfing, and stand-up paddleboarding, with more phases planned for the future.
The basics
White-water enthusiasts can take advantage of two current phases at the Boise Whitewater Park: the general access Phase 1 offers two different wave configurations (green wave or wave/hole) suitable for surfing, kayaking, and play-boating. The more advanced Phase 2 section offers adjustable waves suitable for experts only; it’s currently only available through monitored sessions over the summer. You can also watch the action unfold from the riverside viewing areas of the park.
Things to know before you go
- There’s no fee to access the Boise Whitewater Park.
- Wave webcams, wave schedules, and wave notifications for monitored sessions are available.
- Portage is currently required between Phase 1 and Phase 2 of the park, and affects anyone, including floaters and rafters, trying to pass that stretch of the river.
How to get there
The Boise Whitewater River Park is on the Boise River between the Fairview Avenue and Veterans Memorial Parkway bridges in the north end of Boise. The main entrance is between 34th and 36th streets in front of the Idaho River Sports shop. It’s also accessible from Esther Simplot Park.
When to get there
Boise Whitewater Park is open year-round from sunrise to sunset. Summer is a more popular time for kayaking or surfing though both are possible at other times of the year, including winter. The Phase 1 wave schedule alternates between wave/hole and green wave configurations, which change from season to season and depend on irrigation demands. Phase 2 sessions are currently monitored and over the summer only.
Water activities at nearby parks
Two nearby parks offer water recreation for visitors looking for something less intense than surfing or kayaking on white water. Bernardine Quinn Riverside Park is home to the 22-acre (8.9-hectare) Quinn’s Pond, which offers swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. Esther Simplot Park has 23 acres (9.3 hectares) of ponds ideal for wading, swimming, and fishing.
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