About
While J.A. and Kathryn Albertson Family Foundation Boise Whitewater Park is a mouthful, it can be boiled down to two key words: whitewater park.
This park offers a unique experience of kayaking and surfing on the Boise River. With its proximity to other landmarks like Barber Park and the MK Nature Center-Idaho Fish and Game, combining multiple attractions in a day is simple to plan.
The story of Whitewater Park intertwines with the inspiring journey of Joe and Kathryn Albertson. They met at The College of Idaho, leading to marriage and a lifetime commitment to education and community development. Joe's entrepreneurial spirit was ignited when he was a clerk position at a local Safeway store. This inspired him to start the Albertsons grocery chain in 1939, championing customer-centric services and self-service supermarkets.
They also loved the outdoors which fueled their passion to share it with others. This led to the creation of Kathryn Albertson Park and developing the Boise Whitewater Park. The park is a haven for water sports enthusiasts where the adjustable wave creates expert-only challenges and beginner-friendly zones.
Even if you're not a water sports enthusiast, there is plenty to enjoy at Boise Whitewater Park.
Boise Whitewater Park: Fun Facts & Cool Features
Originally known as the Boise River Park or 36th Street Wave, it boasts one of the world's first adjustable river waves. This innovative feature was initially for kayakers but has become a hotspot for river surfers. The park's unique adaptable wave shaper, which modifies the wave to match flow rates and water levels, ensures varied experiences. On some days, surfers might find a smooth, green face; on others, they encounter a more challenging hole-like wave.
The park's design was developed by S2O Design, McMillen Associates, the City of Boise, and Farmer's Union Diversion. They transformed a failing rubble dam irrigation structure into a cutting-edge adjustable diversion and head gate structure. It also doubles as a whitewater park.
After burning calories surfing or kayaking, head to any of the area's top restaurants to refuel. Boise Fry Company will satisfy your craving for spuds, while Kibrom's Ethiopian & Eritrean Food offers East African cuisine.
Another fascinating aspect is the park's operational schedule, which caters to different activities. Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays are for shaping the wave for surfing. Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, the conditions are suitable for kayaking. Such scheduling ensures that Garden Valley surfers and kayakers can enjoy the park, fostering a welcoming and inclusive community atmosphere.
Getting There
Here's how you can get to Boise Whitewater Park from Boise City:
- Initially, continue to Fairview Ave/W Front St for about 0.7 miles.
- Proceed on W Front St towards W Main St. for 0.6 miles.
- Follow W Main St and N 30th St N/N Whitewater Park Blvd to Esther Simplot Park.
- Continue onto Esther Simplot Park to reach your destination.
- 3400 W Pleasanton Ave, Boise, Idaho 83702
Local Tips
- Knowing the schedule in advance can help you plan your visit according to your preferred activity.
- The park is busiest during lunch hours and after work. If you prefer a less crowded experience, visit during off-peak hours.
- Check their website for information on surfboard leash use.
- While the park is open year-round, check their website for operating hours.
