Platte River - Confluence Whitewater Park

Review

Intro

This is the hub of whitewater paddling in Denver - whether that be in hardshell kayaks, inflatables, stand-up paddleboards, or other crafts. And the great thing about the Confluence Whitewater Park is that all disciplines are equally accepted, even tubers on a hot summer day. You’ll even have loads of spectators cheering you on from the bridge and riverside rocks.

What Makes It Great

This stretch of river is probably safe to rate as Class 3, but it does depend on water level and time of year. I definitely recommend taking all the usual precautions in running this course, despite its proximity to town and easy access. It’s one of the great urban whitewater runs in the country. It’s served by neighboring Confluence Kayaks who can help you with beta and gear rentals as needed.

Who is Going to Love It

The Platte River - Confluence Whitewater Park is a great place for a kayak, inflatable, SUP - anyone interested in some whitewater paddling!

Directions, Parking, & Regulations

You can park at Confluence, at the Children’s Museum, at REI, or on the street anywhere around 15th and Platte. Just hike up the bike path a hundred feet with your boat, put in just below the first low-head dam you see, and run the rapids as many times as you want. You’ll be greeted at the bottom of the run by lots of cheering children cooling off at the Confluence Park in the heat of the summer.