”Know before you go” river surfing information sessions are being offered in summer 2025 by BPRD River Recreation Specialists Ryan Richard and Noah Metzler. Advanced registration is required for the free sessions. The same information will be provided at each of the three session offerings, so please sign up for one date only, as space is limited.
The information session is a combination of dry-land and optional in-water education. It is intended for new and developing river surfers, those interested to learn the popular sport, or family, friends and spectators who wish to know more about the river dynamics and how the whitewater park operates. An optional fish ladder crossing will be available at the end of the session to view the wave up close.
The information session will:
• Educate and inform about river dynamics, the basics of the Bend Whitewater Park, and how to “read” the water.
• Review park rules and dos and don’ts of river surfing and how it differs from ocean surfing.
• Discuss river hazards, safety gear recommendations and how to line up, take turns, etc.
• Share information about access to the surf wave, basic beginner surf tips.
• Review surfboard basics including river surfing gear and equipment
• Optional fish ladder crossing to view the wave up close.
• Answer questions from attendees.
Session attendees should arrive at McKay Park 5-10 minutes before the session starts and wear appropriate clothes/shoes if interested in optional wave introduction at the end of class.
Additional parking is available at the Park & Float lot across from the Pavilion.
Sign up here:
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/8050D4EA8AE2FA4F94-river#/
Also check out other Sports events in Bend, Workshops in Bend.
