Boise Whitewater Park FAQs

Boise Whitewater Park Main FAQ Update – November 2024

Boise Whitewater Park – Frequently Asked Questions for Phase 1 and Phase 2

Updated: November 2024

1. What is the portage plan around the Boise Whitewater Park?

A new portage plan has been implemented between Phase 1 and Phase 2 of the Boise Whitewater Park (‘portage’ means you must get out of the river and carry your watercraft around to the next river access point). Everyone recreating on the river should portage (exit the river) at the channel on the right of the river just after the bridge between Phase 1 and Phase 2. Look for signage on the bridge just upstream of the Boise Whitewater Park and along the banks of the river. This portage is recommended to avoid extremely hazardous conditions associated with the existing bypass feature (which is typically turned off). All entry to the river must be through approved access downstream of Phase 2; there is no upstream access allowed.

2. What influences the adjustable waves you can create at Phase 1 and Phase 2 of the Boise Whitewater Park?

A variety of factors influence the experience associated with Phase 1 and Phase 2 wave features. Water flow, measured in cubic feet per second (CFS), and irrigation demands are primary considerations. First and foremost, the city must fulfill its water right requirements and meet the irrigation needs of Thurman Mill Irrigation District using the diversion at Phase 1 and Farmers Union Ditch Co. at Phase 2. Our wave techs do their best to meet these needs while shaping the mechanical wave feature to create an experience that meets the needs of most users.

Our wave techs follow all safety protocols and check conditions regularly, to implement the best wave features possible given all the factors that impact the park. Users enter the park at their own risk and should always act as if they are entering a dynamic whitewater situation. Please remember, your safety while recreating on the river is your responsibility.

3. What is the latest update on Phase 2 of the Boise Whitewater Park?

Please visit the Phase 2 modifications webpage for updates on modifications.

4. Why has the city hosted monitored sessions at the Phase 2 adjustable wave feature?

The Phase 2 adjustable wave is an advanced, expert level feature. Over the course of the last few seasons, users and our wave techs have noted unstable and hazardous wave conditions associated with the existing feature design and layout. Proposed modifications, set to be implemented in late 2024/early 2025, seek to reduce this hazard and potentially eliminate the need for monitored sessions in the future.

At this point, specially trained staff must be on-site to adjust the features as needed and in real time to ensure the wave can be available for use. The purpose of monitored sessions is to improve safety measures and user experience.

5. Can you hold additional monitored sessions for more hours?

The department requires two specially trained wave techs to be always onsite when the Phase 2 adjustable wave is in operation. This is for the increased safety of the users. In season, monitored sessions at Phase 2 from 9 to 11 a.m. Wednesday through Sunday requires staff be onsite from 7 a.m. to noon. This schedule allows our park professionals to manage the wave feature and address other park duties they are assigned. Variability increases throughout the course of the day as water releases and irrigation needs become more impactful. In our effort to provide a stable wave, morning is the best time for monitored sessions.

It’s important to keep in mind that the Phase 2 adjustable wave is not complete, and a permanent redesign is scheduled to take place during the 2024/2025 winter. Modifications will be made with the goal of creating a safer experience and any information about upcoming monitored sessions or wave operability will be made in Spring 2025 once construction is complete.

6. Why can’t we wear leashes when the Phase 2 adjustable wave feature is operational?

Safety at the Boise Whitewater Park is always our top priority. Due to several entrapment hazards around the Phase 2 adjustable wave, leashes should not be used for your own safety. Any type of rope, string, or tethering device should not be used in the river. At this wave, there are entrapment hazards that could anchor a person to the bottom of the river when caught.

7. Why is Wave Shaper 3 (part of Phase 1) inoperable?

Because the Boise River is a dynamic watercourse, each new spring runoff may change the streambed and bank of the river. Recent flood years have deposited rock and sediment adjacent to this feature that affect our commitments to irrigation needs. Until conditions change, Wave Shaper 3 at Phase 1 will continue to be unavailable for use.

8. What can be done to improve the first wave feature at Phase 1?

Modifications within Phase 1 and Phase 2 affect the operations of each phase, and our priority is to first permanently update Phase 2 to provide a stable wave feature. Once Phase 2 modifications have been completed, adjustments to the Phase 1 features can be considered.

9. Who can I contact if I have questions about the Boise Whitewater Park or current features?

You can email the Boise Parks and Recreation Department with questions or concerns at any time. Our team will work to address your message and respond as staffing allows.

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For other after hours park related emergencies (i.e. irrigation issues, restrooms), please call (208) 489-6640.