Published on March 10th, 2013 | by RB Team
Photo by CrashPhoto | 0Boise Whitewater Park
Boise Whitewater Park (formerly known as Boise River Park or 36th Street Wave), features one of the first adjustable river waves in the world. The park was originally made for kayakers but the wave is also excellent for river surfers.
On some days you may find a relatively green face, on others the wave is more like a hole — this really depends on how the park people are shaping it. The park has in place a man-made adjustable wave shaper to modify the wave as flow rates and water levels vary. There are two waves at Boise Whitewater park which are usually surfable anytime from March-October. The spot is located between 34th / 36th street in Idaho, Boise.
Access and Parking
The official entrance to the Boise Whitewater Park is on the Boise side of the river, next to Idaho River Sports which carries river and surf SUP boards and accessories. The address is 3120 W. Pleasanton Ave. and has lots of parking, outhouses, etc. Another option is to park on the Garden City side, only 10 feet from the feature. The lot is owned privately, but leased by the city (soon to become a residential project). The park is operated by the City of Boise and it’s currently phase 1 of a 3 phase project. Phase 2 includes permanent bathroom, changing room and improved parking and access (on the Boise side of the river). For more information see boiseriverpark.com.
Waves Shape Schedule
Wednesday, Friday and Sunday the wave is shaped more for surfing. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday the wave is shaped more for kayaking (check latest schedule updates before you go). You’ll see surfing and kayaking everyday of the week not just on days shaped for them. Everyone is very friendly and there isn’t any kind of “locals only” attitude.
Spot Details
Address
- 3120 W. Pleasanton Ave., Boise, Idaho, United States.
Directions
- The official entrance is on the Boise side of the river, next to Idaho River Sports.
- Parking: city parking lot, Esther Simplot Park.
River
- Boise River
Nearest City
- Boise, Idaho
Nearest Surf Shops
GPS Coords
- Latitude: 43.625513
- Longitude: -116.234497
How to Get There
Wave Details
Conditions
- One of the waves works from about 700 CFS and up — so can be in anytime from March-October.
- Above 800 cfs is ideal for wave shaper 1.
- Above 1250 both waves are on.
Characteristics
- Short fast wave.
- Small boards are ideal.
- Super safe wave with eddys on both sides.
- Just watch out for trout.
Dangers
- Pretty forgiving eddy and entry.
Tips
- Generally friendly.
- Busy during lunch and post work sessions.
More about Boise Whitewater Park
Boise Whitewater Web Cam
Boise Whitewater Park Website
Browse Riverbreak for Boise Whitewater Park