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Poudre River Whitewater Park: An Urban River Oasis

Experience the thrill of whitewater and the beauty of nature at Fort Collins' Poudre River Whitewater Park. Open year-round, 5am-11pm!

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The Poudre River Whitewater Park in Fort Collins offers a unique blend of recreational fun and river restoration. Located just north of Old Town, the park features two whitewater drop structures for kayakers and tubers, a pedestrian bridge, and accessible riverbank access, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

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

  • Always wear a life vest when participating in water activities in the Poudre River.
  • Check the river flow conditions before you go, especially if you are planning to kayak or tube.
  • Bring sunscreen, water, and snacks, as there are limited facilities within the park.
  • The park can get crowded on weekends and holidays, so consider visiting during off-peak hours.
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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, just east of College Avenue. The walk is approximately 0.5 miles and should take about 10-15 minutes. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    Transfort, Fort Collins' public transportation system, offers free bus service throughout the city. Several routes stop near the Poudre River Whitewater Park. Check the Transfort website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and route information. Get off at a stop along College Avenue near Vine Drive. From there, walk east on Vine Drive to the park entrance. No costs involved.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Fort Collins. A short ride from Old Town to the Poudre River Whitewater Park will typically cost between $7 and $15, depending on the service and demand. Be sure to confirm the fare before you begin your trip.

  • Parking

    The Poudre River Whitewater Park has a dedicated parking lot located on Vine Drive, just east of College Avenue. Parking is free. Additional parking is available in nearby lots and parking structures in downtown Fort Collins, including the Jefferson Street Lot, Firehouse Alley Parking Structure, and Civic Center Parking Structure. These lots typically charge hourly rates, ranging from $1-$2 per hour. Parking availability may be limited during peak hours and on weekends.

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Discover more about Poudre River Whitewater Park

The Poudre River Whitewater Park, a 12-acre oasis in the heart of Fort Collins, provides a refreshing escape and exciting recreational opportunities along the Cache La Poudre River. Opened in October 2019, the park transformed a once-industrialized riverfront into a vibrant public space for kayakers, tubers, and families. The park's main attractions are the two whitewater features designed for river sports. The upper feature caters to beginners, while the lower offers a more challenging experience for advanced paddlers. These structures create waves at 200 CFS (cubic feet per second) and above, ensuring thrilling rides for water enthusiasts. A pedestrian bridge spans the river, linking the park to the Poudre Trail and providing stunning views of the whitewater action. Beyond recreation, the park serves as a crucial point on the Heritage Trail, highlighting the river's historical significance to agriculture, industry, and recreation in Fort Collins. Interpretive signs throughout the park tell the story of the river and its impact on the city's development. The park also features a south bank terrace with seating, a children's play area, and accessible riverbank access, making it enjoyable for visitors of all ages and abilities. The Poudre River Whitewater Park is not only a recreational haven but also an environmental success story. The project involved removing a large diversion structure, restoring the river's natural flow, and improving the floodplain. Fish passage channels were integrated into the whitewater features, allowing native fish to move freely upstream. The park's design also incorporates sustainable strategies, such as water conservation and integrated stormwater management.

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