Poudre River Whitewater Park Fort Collins
A dynamic urban oasis where the Poudre River offers thrilling whitewater waves and refreshing swimming, steps from Old Town.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Ideal for whitewater rafting & surfing
Poudre River Whitewater Park Fort Collins
Best Time
Ideal for whitewater rafting & surfing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A dynamic urban oasis where the Poudre River offers thrilling whitewater waves and refreshing swimming, steps from Old Town.
"The wave is a solid 6.5 out of ten but the environment is second to none."
Check Water Levels First
Flows vary! Over 600 cfs is best for surfing. Check online before you go! :chartwithupwards_trend:
Surfing & Swimming Fun
Two waves for surfing, deeper spots for swimming, and shallow areas for kids. :smiley:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Wave Features
Poudre River Whitewater Park
Two distinct wave features offer opportunities for surfing and whitewater thrills, especially at higher water levels.
Riverside Swimming
Poudre River
Escape the summer heat in designated swimming spots, including deeper areas for jumping and shallow zones for families.
Jedi Master Nick
Poudre River Whitewater Park
A local legend and friendly face, often seen around the park, adding to the unique character of the experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Best Waves
Embrace the Local Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Water Levels First
Flows vary! Over 600 cfs is best for surfing. Check online before you go! :chartwithupwards_trend:
Surfing & Swimming Fun
Two waves for surfing, deeper spots for swimming, and shallow areas for kids. :smiley:
Friendly Locals
You might see homeless individuals; most are friendly and respectful. Say hello! :wave:
Proximity to Old Town
Walkable from Old Town Fort Collins for shops & dining. :walking:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Water Levels First
Flows vary! Over 600 cfs is best for surfing. Check online before you go! :chartwithupwards_trend:
Surfing & Swimming Fun
Two waves for surfing, deeper spots for swimming, and shallow areas for kids. :smiley:
Friendly Locals
You might see homeless individuals; most are friendly and respectful. Say hello! :wave:
Proximity to Old Town
Walkable from Old Town Fort Collins for shops & dining. :walking:
Shuttle for Mishawaka
Limited parking at Mishawaka; use the shuttle for concerts. :bus:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Poudre River Whitewater Park for its fun wave features, great swimming opportunities, and vibrant local atmosphere. Many highlight the park's accessibility from Old Town and its role as a beloved community spot. While some mention the presence of homeless individuals, most reviews indicate they are friendly and respectful, adding to the park's unique character.
"It is a decent little whitewater park. When water is over 600 cfs it get pretty fun. Only 2 waves/features. The second wave is better for surfing. There are some homeless around but they are usually friendly, just say hello. There is a guy named Jedi Master Nick and he is an absolute legend!!"
Brodie Morrison
"Great swimming spot to escape summer heat. Two deeper spots where you can jump in off boulders. Shalow areas for smaller kids."
rebekah lockwood
"July 26, 2024 July 26, 2024 after walking old town Fort Collins, we went over to the Avery House, Poudre River White Water Park, and The Upper Boxelder Schoolhouse of 1905 to the CSU Trail Gardens!"
Dani MCDonald
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is conveniently located along the Poudre River Trail, easily accessible from downtown Fort Collins. Many visitors walk or bike to the park from Old Town. Parking is available nearby, though it can be limited during peak times. 
While direct public transport to the park itself might be limited, Fort Collins has a bus system that can get you close to the downtown area, from where you can walk or bike to the park.
Absolutely! The Poudre River Trail runs right through the park, making it a fantastic destination for a bike ride. It's a scenic route with plenty of nature views.
From Old Town Fort Collins, you can easily walk or bike to the Poudre River Trail. The park is situated along this trail, offering a pleasant journey to the water.
Parking can be limited, especially on busy summer days. Arriving early or considering alternative transportation like biking is recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Poudre River Whitewater Park is a public park and does not require tickets for entry. You can enjoy the river and its features for free.
As a public park, the Poudre River Whitewater Park is generally accessible during daylight hours. However, specific amenities or facilities might have their own hours.
There is no admission fee to enter and enjoy the Poudre River Whitewater Park. It's a free public amenity for the community and visitors.
While the park is open to the public, it's always a good idea to be aware of any local advisories or seasonal closures, especially concerning river conditions.
The whitewater park is a public space, and spots are available on a first-come, first-served basis. There's no reservation system for general access.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy whitewater rafting and surfing on the wave features, swimming in designated areas, fishing, and simply relaxing by the river. It's also a great spot for dog walking and enjoying nature.
Yes, the park offers shallow areas suitable for children to play in the water, alongside deeper spots for more adventurous swimmers.
There are two main wave features. The second wave is often preferred for surfing. The quality of the waves is highly dependent on water flow, with higher flows (over 600 cfs) being ideal.
Yes, the park is a great spot for fishing, especially during lower flow periods when fish channels are more accessible. +1
You may encounter members of the local homeless community. Many are friendly and respectful. A local legend known as 'Jedi Master Nick' is often seen and adds to the park's unique character.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The whitewater park itself doesn't have dedicated food vendors. However, it's located very close to Old Town Fort Collins, which offers a wide array of restaurants, cafes, and breweries.
Yes, picnicking is a popular activity. You are welcome to bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages to enjoy by the river. Remember to pack out all your trash. :sandwich:
Old Town Fort Collins, just a short walk away, boasts a diverse culinary scene, from casual eateries to upscale dining, catering to all tastes.
Fort Collins is renowned for its breweries, and many are located within walking distance of the whitewater park in the Old Town area.
Yes, numerous coffee shops are available in the nearby Old Town district, perfect for grabbing a morning coffee before or an afternoon pick-me-up after visiting the park.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the action of kayakers and surfers on the waves, the scenic beauty of the Poudre River, and the vibrant atmosphere of people enjoying the water. The surrounding natural landscape also offers great shots.
Yes, the river, trees, and the unique urban-nature blend make for interesting landscape photography, especially during sunrise or sunset.
While not guaranteed, you might spot various bird species along the river. The nearby Swetsville Zoo, with its metal sculptures, also offers unique photographic subjects.
Golden hours (early morning and late afternoon) offer beautiful lighting for both landscapes and action shots. Midday can be harsh but is great for capturing the energy of the park.
The wave features themselves are iconic. The Poudre River Trail bridges and the general riverside setting provide picturesque backdrops.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to bring plenty of snacks and drinks, as there are no food vendors directly at the park, but Old Town Fort Collins is just a short walk away for dining options. 🏄♀️ Adventure Seekers & Surfers
🚶♀️ Walkers & Dog Owners
The park itself provides ample space to relax by the river, and the trail connects to other green spaces like Lee Martinez Park, offering diverse exploration opportunities. It's a great way to experience the natural beauty of Fort Collins without venturing far from the city center. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Whitewater Activities: Surfing and Rafting
While the park is known for its surfing potential, it also provides opportunities for white water rafting Colorado Fort Collins. During higher flow periods, sections of the river can be navigated by rafts, offering a fun adventure. It's crucial to check real-time water flow data before planning your rafting trip, as conditions can change rapidly. Local outfitters may offer guided tours, or experienced individuals can navigate the river independently.
The Poudre River Trail and Surrounding Nature
Visitors can enjoy the lush riverbanks, mature trees, and the soothing sounds of the water as they explore. The trail connects various parks and points of interest, making it a versatile recreational corridor.Beyond the immediate park area, the Poudre River corridor offers diverse natural experiences. You can find opportunities for fly fishing in designated areas, with local anglers often sharing their success stories.
Community and Local Insights
For those interested in events, the nearby Mishawaka Amphitheater in Poudre Canyon hosts concerts, offering a fantastic venue with a riverside setting.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit