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Playspot: USA, Idaho, Post Falls, Spokane River, Corbin Wave

What's it like

Corbin wave is a large, fast, breaking wave. It's very dynamic at higher flows.

It starts to come in around 15,000 cfs, getting bigger, faster, more challenging and fun as the level rises. The highest level is near 23,000 cfs when it starts to wash out and it becomes difficult to catch to wave. The self feeder eddy up surfer's left leads to a sticky corner that is easily surfed over to the wave. Blunts, aerials, spins, all surf moves are the modus operandi here.

The water is cold as it is runoff from the mountains and Lake C'Ouer D'Alene. The season is typically spring runoff, but it can happen anytime during the winter/spring if there is a sudden warming spell and rain. it is impossible to predict when exactly this wave is in, but typically it is in late April and May.

Bring the family, as there is a great spot on the large rock outcropping for watching all the action!

Hazards: Large whirlpools extend perhaps 100-150 yards below the wave. They can be deep at the higher levels. This area is not for the timid or weak paddler! LOGS that are lifted by the rising flows circulate in the large eddy above the wave and when released, come into the wave. These cannot be seen while surfing, so if they are noticed in the eddy, it helps to have a spotter to warn surfers when the logs are headed to outsurf you! Other hazards are the broken glass left behind by local teens!

How to get there

Located near the Washington / Idaho border, from I-90 take the Pleasant View road exit and go south to the traffic light (Riverbend ave). Turn left heading east to the Corbin Park sign (Corbin road). Follow the road to the park, take the first dirt road left and follow it to the river, where you'll find plenty of parking. Put-in at the large eddy above and drop in to the wave, or get in below the wave in the large eddy.

Locals

The park has a baseball field and picknicking sites. It's open until 10 PM. No camping allowed. Local playboaters flock here, but the rides generally aren't too long so the line moves quickly. The eddy below has plenty of room. It's best when only 5 are playing, but there have been times when many more were waiting their turn.

Events

There has been a rodeo in the past, but due to the whims of nature, it is difficult to judge when this wave will be in. Some years it never gets high enough, others it is here and gone in a matter of a few days, sometimes lasting weeks.....

Info sources

McHolehog