I propose a paddle boat rental shop to be located on the greenbelt. It would need a dock for the boats, and may or may not function well with the previously suggested wheeled rental shop. It would seem the rental aspect dovetails, but the same business renting out both pedal vehicles and boats may be larger than Idaho Falls would want in one spot on our greenbelt. I think it would be better aesthetically for two separate businesses.
Boise has or had a paddle boat rental shop in one of their parks, and my family enjoyed it. The typical charge for rentals is $8 per half hour, which is affordable for families and couples. This rental business should be located away from normal speed boaters and the falls area. I think the best place is between Broadway and Pancheri bridge, where the water is fairly calm and I see fewer speed boats.
I realize Boise’s paddle boat rentals were on a still lake, whereas in Idaho Falls the boats are subject to a moving river. The rental shop and docks should therefore be located as close to Broadway bridge as possible, either on the Taylor Crossing side or the east side of the river. Boaters may be carried far down river and may not want or have energy to return the boats upstream, so a second dock (more a corral) should be located at the south end of where the business owner wants his boats to go. The boats could be chained together there and towed back using a jet ski.
I researched a few minutes on the subject at Google, and found many diverse paddle boat themes, including pirate ships, pink flamingos, swans, ducks, pelicans, dragons, dinosaurs, venetian gondolas, etc. The cost is what you’d expect, though I wonder if any local businesses could manufacture these boats?
Life jackets, two-way radios, and first aid kits will will have to be stocked on each boat, and the business will likely need safety certifications. I read that insurance for this type of business can be significant, but that’s just part of any business financial model.
The business may as well have a little snack shack also, but garbage will have to be closely monitored to make sure this business does not result in our river getting littered. The business would do well to run weekly or even daily promotions like races.
Who might spend money on paddle boat rentals? This activity is described as great for tourists, families, dating couples, and office workers eating lunch on the water. Just the sight of seeing more activity on our section of the Snake River will improve Idaho Falls’ reputation for being pretty but there’s not much to do.
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{ 7 comments… read them below or add one }
I agree there should be a new dock for paddle boaters. The more simple family fun the better for everyone.
Here in Coeur d’Alene, we have a nice city beach with a park attached and a pier for paddle boats, water trikes, and parasailing. There’s enjoyment for all, even people watching.
When you decide to build a new dock, do check out the all aluminum docks from ‘Dovetail’. The decks are non-slip powder coated which is 30% cooler than other materials. No more burned toes or maintenance. We offer the only ‘Lifetime Warranty’ in the industry to save cities and parks money on repairs and replacements.
Best of Idaho Falls, I hope you get your new dock.
I’m concerned that the current might be a little too strong for this to be a safe family outing. I’ve done paddle boats (Lagoon and Redfish) and they aren’t real easy to do.
I agree…..the current is way too strong for paddle boats on the snake river. At least anywhere around Idaho Falls.
Well, maybe Mr. Dovetaildock seller’s intentions are to sell us a dock he makes, rather than making sure we have safe waters with which to operate paddleboats. His name links to his product…
Brian and Sarah McCoy offers home based business by selling or marketing xocai products.
No way would paddle boats work on the river except possibly in Gem Lake. I can just see the news reports about dozens of paddle boaters going over the falls! The current is far too strong.
the river could be a deadly place to rent paddle boats. Aren’t they building a pond on the S side of that huuuge development? That pond might be a better spot.