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Boise Whitewater Park is changing the idea that landlocked states aren’t for surfers and that a lazy river running through a city’s downtown can’t offer premium kayaking. Tucked behind Quinn’s Pond on the west side of downtown Boise, waveshapers installed in the Boise River create ideal conditions for urban whitewater kayaking and river surfing. 

Wave shapers adjust daily at noon, and everyone is invited to use the park regardless of the wave. However, Green Wave is best suited for river surfing on short boards, and Wave/Hole days are ideal for intermediate and above kayakers. While not impossible for beginning kayakers, it will come with a steep learning curve. 

Wave Schedule:

  • Monday: Alternating weeks
  • Tuesday: Green Wave
  • Wednesday: Wave/Hole
  • Thursday: Green Wave
  • Friday: Wave/Hole
  • Saturday: Green Wave
  • Sunday: Wave/Hole

Wet suits or dry tops are recommended for late spring through fall. Boise’s hot summers may let you leave the wetsuits home for a few weeks in July and August. Lunch hours and after work are the busiest times at the park. Check the WaveCam for current conditions and use,

These waveshapers are just the start of the Boise Whitewater Park. Phase II, currently under construction, will offer beginner waves, a whitewater slalom course, wading areas, and other improvements for water users and spectators. 

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Summer
Fall

Parking Pass

Not Required

Pros

Surfing and whitewater kayaking in town.

Cons

Heavy use during lunch hours and after work.

Put-in location (lat, long coordinates)

Boise River at Quinn's Pond.

Take-out location (lat, long coordinates)

Boise River at Quinn's Pond.

Overall difficulty

II
III

Route Characteristics: Character

Pool Drop
Continuous
Park-and-Play

Suitable for

Kayaks
Stand-Up Paddleboards

Location

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