Cache La Poudre — 11. Fort Collins Play Park

The Poudre River flows through Fort Collins, and although much of its water is diverted, it occasionally has sufficient flow for boating. A short stretch from Shields Street to Legacy Park offers an approximately one-mile float, while the whitewater park provides a fun destination for river play. A paved bike trail runs along this entire section of the river, making it easy to set up a bike shuttle. As a free-flowing waterway, the Poudre’s levels are not regulated and can change rapidly. Visitors are encouraged to check real-time streamflow data and consult safety resources such as the *Play It Safe on the Poudre* initiative, which offers maps and river safety tips. Located just north of Fort Collins’ historic Old Town, the Poudre Whitewater Park is a riverside destination where recreation, restoration, and urban access come together. Opened in 2019, the park was designed to return the Cache la Poudre River to a more natural state while providing a safe and engaging space for people of all ages to enjoy the water. It serves as both a recreational hub and a model for floodplain restoration and ecological design, connecting the river corridor to the city through trails and public access points. Although the park prioritizes safety, the river remains inherently unpredictable, and caution is advised—especially during high flows. The Poudre Whitewater Park is located at 201 East Vine Drive, just off College Avenue. Its proximity to downtown makes it an easy stop for locals and visitors alike, and it connects directly to the Poudre Trail by way of a pedestrian bridge. The heart of the park is its whitewater features: two engineered drop structures designed for kayakers, paddleboarders, and tubers to test their skills. These features come alive when the river is flowing at 200 cfs or more, forming waves suitable for playboating and fun river running. Seasonal snowmelt, especially in late spring, often brings the best water conditions, though flows vary widely depending on precipitation and the time of year. In addition to its whitewater features, the park includes accessible riverbank entry points, a scenic overlook plaza, and space to relax by the water. While the park does not offer equipment rentals, several shops in Fort Collins provide tubes, boats, and safety gear. Facilities are minimal but functional, with a changing room and portable toilets available near the parking lot. The park is open year-round, and there is no admission fee to enter or use the river features. If any issues arise during your visit, the City of Fort Collins Parks Department can be reached at 970-221-6660. The Poudre Whitewater Park is a unique and inviting space where outdoor adventure and urban life intersect,