Making waves

Oklahoma City is a town full of people who dream big but whitewater rafting in downtown? A decade ago even the most bright-eyed optimist would have told you to tap the breaks. But in 2017 your own thrill ride on the waves is possible in the shadow of the skyline.

The RIVERSPORTS Rapids is one of only six man-made whitewater courses in the country and will is powered by a total of six pumps that weigh more than 12,000 pounds each (think full-grown elephant or two great white sharks) and circulate 82,000 gallons per minute (fast enough to fill an Olympic-sized swimming pool in a mere 80 seconds). About 2,000 people will be able to raft in a single day making RIVERSPORTS Rapids one of the largest rafting facilities not only in the United States, but in the entire in the world. But don’t fret, the facility is family-friendly too, offering rafting and kayaking for all levels of users from novice to Olympic Champion.

In addition to adding fun and excitement to our community, RIVERSPORT Rapids also helps increase community safety. The center is available for firefighter swift water rescue training, offering a controlled setting where rescuers can learn the most advanced techniques for rescuing people from fast-running water. The rapids are open on weekends until May 15 when they will be open seven days a week.