Project Info

Phase 1

Construction crews rebuilt the Thurman Mill Diversion Dam with Wave Shaper, and the City opened Phase I of the Boise Whitewater Park in June 2012. City crews continue tuning the main Wave Shaper device (between the concrete walls) as the Boise River flows fluctuate, creating different waves for surfing or kayaking year round.

A gallery of photos for the opening of the park are available on our facebook page. 

Phase 1 Wave Shaper
Technology

Phase 2

The next 1/2 mile of the Boise Whitewater Park, downstream from the Harry W. Morrison Dam (which was once the Thurman Mill diversion - the structure responsible for the intermittent 36th Street Wave), features something for everyone of nearly every age and skill level.

Below is a preliminary concept drawing.

Phase 2 officially opened in July, 2019. New work and improvements are ongoing during Winter 2024/2025. Click here for more information.

Reach 1: Easy Going    
This section was planned to feature protected wading areas, a habitat island, shore and fish habitat restoration, and a spectator overlook. Slow and mellow is the theme of the river for this area.    

Reach II: Playful
Three waves of varying levels of difficulty are the primary features in this area. The shoreline is terraced boulders and includes grassy areas. The existing Farmer's Union irrigation canal flows under an amphitheater-style lawn for events and viewing.

Reach III: River Runner
This area adds a little more excitement to the park. There is also easy access directly into and out of the river at this point. A planned canal connecting the river to Veteran’s Pond was scrapped because of problems associated with variable water levels.

Funding

The cost of the total 1/2 mile Phase II of the Boise Whitewater Park was estimated to be $7.3 million. The City of Boise contributed funds to design this phase and has committed funds to rebuild the opening of the Farmer's Union Canal in tandem with the construction of the Esther Simplot Park. The balance of the estimated cost was raised privately by the Friends of Parks, which raised the funds for Phase I, and from a generous contribution by the J.A. & Kathryn Albertson Family Foundation. The timeline for construction was slated for 2017 - 2018 depending on river flows and access.

Future

The 'Friends of the Park' continue brainstorming additional ways the Boise River can be optimized, restored and provide new opportunities for river recreation through the heart of Boise and beyond. The Friends of the Park consists of members of the greater community, as well as boaters, surfers and river advocacy groups.