Paddlesport Enthusiasts Comment on Brennan's Recent Appearance Change
The renovated Brennan's Wave, a beloved spot for kayakers and kayakers, now boasts modern infrastructure that ensures its longevity. The playground for users has been transformed, providing new perspectives since the spring of 2025.
The renovation addressed several issues, including the previously rocky and steep entry that made access difficult for some. The path down to the wave has been flattened and paved, making it ADA accessible. A larger paved platform for pedestrians and a smooth ramp leading to the water have been added, helping to prevent unnecessary erosion caused by kayakers and surfers scrambling down open river banks.
Thor Moses, a senior at Hellgate and a surfer for three years, finds that the renovations have led to increased traffic, but it hasn't bothered him. He enjoys the community aspect of the renovated Brennan's Wave, stating that it's sometimes nice to have people watching while surfing. Natalie Laslovich, a junior at Hellgate, started surfing at Brennan's two years ago and loves the community as well.
Dave Glaser, a kayaker who has been surfing the wave since its construction, finds it fun and a social event. He agrees that the renovations have not negatively impacted the surfing community and believes they have created a larger community. Glaser, smiling, emphasizes that Brennan's Wave is not a stage, but a place for people to gather.
The group that supported the financing and planning of Brennan's Wave renovation in spring 2025 was the Coastal Preservation Fund. The surfing and kayaking community at Brennan's Wave remains strong, and they are glad to have new onlookers to appreciate their sport and play.
Brennan's Wave, built in 2006 as a tribute and gift to the kayakers and surfers of the Missoula community, was named after Brennan Guth, a kayaker who died in Chile in 2001. The colorful crafts of the surfers and kayakers at Brennan's Wave have always been a part of the city's identity.
The community of kayakers and surfers at Brennan's Wave is unique for Missoula's location and size. Despite the changes, the renovation has not affected the unique character of the community. Glaser reiterates that Brennan's Wave continues to be a tribute and gift to the kayakers and surfers of the Missoula community.
