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Poudre River Whitewater Park: An Urban Oasis

Experience urban whitewater adventure at the Poudre River Whitewater Park, where recreation, history, and nature converge in Fort Collins.

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The Poudre River Whitewater Park in Fort Collins offers a refreshing blend of outdoor adventure and urban accessibility. Opened in 2019, this park allows kayakers, tubers, and families to enjoy the Cache La Poudre River with man-made whitewater features, accessible riverbanks, and connections to the city's vibrant downtown.

A brief summary to Poudre River Whitewater Park

  • Monday 5 am-11 pm
  • Tuesday 5 am-11 pm
  • Wednesday 5 am-11 pm
  • Thursday 5 am-11 pm
  • Friday 5 am-11 pm
  • Saturday 5 am-11 pm
  • Sunday 5 am-11 pm

Local tips

  • Check the river flow conditions before visiting, as water levels can vary depending on the season and precipitation.
  • Always wear a life vest when participating in water activities.
  • There are no rentals available at the park, so bring your own gear or rent from nearby shops.
  • The park can get crowded, especially during peak season, so plan your visit accordingly.
  • Take advantage of the park's access to the Poudre Trail for a scenic walk or bike ride.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Old Town Fort Collins, head north on College Avenue. Turn right onto Vine Drive. The park entrance and parking lot will be on your right, a short distance from the intersection. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes. There is no fee to enter the park.

  • Public Transport

    Transfort Route 1 has a stop near the park. From the Downtown Transit Center, take Route 1 Northbound and get off at the College Avenue and Vine Drive stop. Walk east on Vine Drive for a short distance to reach the park entrance. A single fare is $1.25.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    From downtown Fort Collins, a taxi or ride-share to the Poudre River Whitewater Park will typically cost between $8 and $12, depending on traffic and demand. The ride is approximately 5-10 minutes.

  • Parking

    Parking for the Whitewater Park is located on Vine Drive just east of College Ave. There is free parking available near the park. Nearby parking includes Jefferson Street Lot, Firehouse Alley Parking Structure, and Civic Center Parking Structure.

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Discover more about Poudre River Whitewater Park

The Poudre River Whitewater Park, opened in October 2019, has quickly become a popular destination in Fort Collins for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. Located just north of Old Town, the park provides a unique opportunity to experience the thrill of whitewater activities within an urban setting. The park features two distinct whitewater drop structures designed to create exciting waves for kayakers and tubers of varying skill levels. The upper feature is suitable for beginners, while the lower feature offers a more challenging experience. These structures create waves at 200 CFS (cubic feet per second) and greater. Beyond the whitewater features, the park boasts accessible riverbank access, an overlook plaza, and a pedestrian bridge that connects to the Poudre Trail, enhancing connectivity with the surrounding areas. The park's creation also focused on restoring the river's natural state and improving the floodplain. The removal of the Coy Diversion dam lowered the riverbed, reducing flood depths and narrowing the 100-year floodplain. The park also serves as a point on the Heritage Trail, highlighting the historical significance of the Poudre River for agriculture, industry, and recreation. Visitors can explore interpretive signs within the park to learn more about the river's rich history and its impact on the development of Fort Collins. Sustainability was a key consideration in the park's design and construction. Existing rock materials were repurposed, and native vegetation was planted to enhance the riverbank. The park provides convenient trailhead parking and access to the Poudre Trail, encouraging alternative modes of transportation.

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