About
The Boise Whitewater Park offers a one-of-a-kind experience where serenity meets the heart-pumping thrill of kayaking and surfing.
Officially known as the J.A. and Kathryn Albertson Family Foundation Boise Whitewater Park, the lengthy name honors the inspiring journey of Joe and Kathryn Albertson.
The couple met in college and married in 1930, and in 1939, Joe opened the first Albertsons grocery store. His innovative business model championed customer-centric services and was the future of self-service supermarkets​​.
With the success of Albertsons grocery stores, the couple set out to give back to the community with the 1989 creation of Kathryn Albertson Park. After their death, the J.A. and Kathryn Albertson Family Foundation was established, which championed the development of the Boise Whitewater Park.
What makes this water attraction so popular is its adjustable waves located in various spots on the Boise River. Phase 1 offers gentler waves for kayakers and beginners, while Phase 2 attracts experts who love the thrill of tackling the more turbulent currents. Be aware that water flow affects the conditions at each, making some days more difficult or easier than others.
The Boise Whitewater Park is beside the Boise River Greenbelt, making it convenient for surfers and pedestrians to reach by bike. Even if you’re not getting into the water, stopping to watch these athletes on the water is mesmerizing.
Also nearby is Kathryn Albertson Park, letting you connect the philanthropic dots of this generous woman on the Ribbon of Jewels trail. After working up an appetite on the waves, you’re never far from a cold drink and hot food. The Sandbar Patio Bar & Grill is along the Boise River Greenbelt, offering American fare. At the same time, the Bardenay Restaurant & Distillery is also close by, serving farm-to-table cuisine and artisan cocktails.
Whether you visit to ride the waves or admire as a spectator, this outdoor attraction will entertain and thrill you to the core.
Boise Whitewater Park: Fun Facts & Cool Features
As discussed, Phase 1 launched in 2012 with an adjustable wave designed for kayakers and surfers. On some days, surfers might find a smooth, green face; on others, they encounter a more challenging hole-like wave​​.
Phase 2 is where the park truly shines for paddlers looking to challenge themselves or build confidence on the water.
The first feature is the most technical of the three, using Rapid Blocs technology to create a variety of wave types. It's currently configured for expert athletes only, offering dynamic, high-performance conditions.
The second feature utilizes in-river boulders to create milder conditions, attracting kayakers and stand-up paddleboarders seeking reliable, readable waves.
The third in-river feature is designed with beginners in mind. Also a boulder system, it provides a gentler introduction to river surfing and kayaking in a more forgiving environment.
Together, the three structures make Phase 2 a complete learning and progression hub for water sports enthusiasts.
The brains behind this impressive water park are S2O Design, McMillen Associates, the City of Boise, and Farmer's Union Diversion. This collaboration transformed a failing rubble dam irrigation structure into a cutting-edge adjustable diversion and head gate structure, doubling as a whitewater park.
The diverse operational timetable of the Boise Whitewater Park makes it attractive to all levels and interests. Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays are dedicated to waves suitable for surfing, while Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays are optimized for kayaking.
These attributes ensure that surfers and kayakers can enjoy the park thoroughly, fostering a welcoming and inclusive community atmosphere​​.
Local Tips
- For safety reasons, leashes are not permitted on Phase 2.
- The water is cold, so wear a wetsuit or drysuit to avoid hypothermia.
- Exposed boulders can appear when the water flow drops below 700cfs.
- Download the Rainout Line app for real-time updates from Boise Parks and Recreation.
