Fast Facts: Truckee River Whitewater Park

The $1.5-million Truckee River Whitewater Park at Wingfield was constructed in 2003. It is both Nevada’s and the region’s first whitewater park and kayak slalom racing course making it arguably the most sophisticated whitewater park in an urban environment in the United States.

The park is designed for:
• Kayaks
• Canoes
• Rafts
• Inner tubes

Accessible for all levels of water enthusiasts. Located in the heart of downtown Reno

Within walking distance of:
• 24-hour hotel-casinos
• Museums
• Shopping
• Dining and more


Truckee River Whitewater Park is the only whitewater park in the United States that offers all of the following attributes:
• Open year-round with a constant flow of clean, fresh water and favorable climate

• Free for all visitors

• Easy access for water enthusiasts of all levels including individuals with disabilities or unique needs

• Proven to accommodate low water flows and extreme environmental changes ensuring usability during dry spells and high spring runoff

• Higher base water flow than other comparable parks with a typical peak spring flow of 1,500 CFS (cubic feet per second)

• Average water temperature ranges between 50 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit

• Smooth, compacted river bottom free of foot entrapments and other dangerous underwater obstacles

• Below-street pedestrian walkway at Arlington Avenue for convenient mobility between east and west ends of the Park. Ramps at the top and bottom of the park provide zero-depth entry and wheel chair access.

• Close proximity to Reno-Tahoe International Airport and Interstate 80

• Forked river surrounds island-like Wingfield Park which houses an amphitheater and facilities for concerts, festivals and other special events and divides the Park into north and south channels

• Barbara Bennett Park rests on the Park’s south bank, providing basketball and tennis courts, picnic areas and restroom facilities

• Tiered riverbank seating for spectators and athletes

Truckee River Whitewater Park features:

North Channel

• 1,400-foot-long freestyle kayaking course

• Five drop pools

• Difficulty level varies depending on environmental changes and water flow; ranges from class two to three on a scale of one to six

• Historically, has produced some of the highest freestyle scores in professional competition, rewarding the technical boater for well-rounded consistent skill and ability

South Channel

• 1,200-foot-long slalom kayak racing course

• Six drop pools

• Designed by Olympic, World Cup, World Championship and National Championship kayak slalom racer Scott Shipley

For more information about the Truckee River Whitewater Park, visit www.RenoRiverFestival.com