Brennan’s Wave was named after Brennan Guth, a talented kayaker of his time who died tragically in Chile in 2001. However, the wave was built in 2006 as far more than a memorial. It is also a tribute and gift to the current kayakers and surfers of the Missoula community.
The colorful crafts of the surfers and kayakers of Brennan’s Wave have always seemed as much a part of the city as the wave itself. But, in light of new renovations to the area in spring of 2025, their playground has changed, giving users new perspectives on the wave they love.
“It’s really fun to surf a wave of that size in downtown Missoula,” said Dave Glaser, 52, a kayaker who has surfed the wave since its construction. “It’s a social event. When the water is high, it’s one of the better waves around.”
The community of kayakers and surfers that has been made possible by the wave is unique for Missoula’s location and size. Natalie Laslovich, a junior at Hellgate, started surfing at Brennan’s two years ago.
“I just love the community… Being able to surf in Missoula Montana, in our landlocked state, is so lucky,” Laslovich said.
Due to this flourishing community of Missoulians, large numbers of recreators would climb down the river bank to surf. Most users never really cared about the rocky and steep entry to the wave, but anyone unable to make the traverse down could not access the river.
In spring of 2025, a renovation was made to Brennan’s. The rough path down to the wave was flattened and paved, creating an ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessible riverfront space. This brought a number of changes to the once overgrown river bank.
In place of a small concrete overlook, a larger paved platform was installed for pedestrians to watch surfers and kayakers on the waves. Additionally, a smooth ramp was installed leading down to the water, allowing all people to access the river directly.
Thor Moses, a senior at Hellgate and surfer for three years said the renovations have led to increased traffic at the wave, but it hasn’t bothered him.
“It does change the vibe a lot,” he said. “I think that it’s nice to surf alone but it’s sometimes nice for people to be watching you, you get to have a little show.”
Glaser said he doesn’t think the new renovations negatively impacted the surfing community.
“I think it’s a wonderful thing that people can have a comfortable place to stand or sit while they watch people play around in the water,” he said. “I feel like it actually creates a larger community.”
In addition to the community aspect, the Brennan’s remodel also impacted the river itself. Unnecessary erosion was caused by kayakers and surfers scrambling down open river banks to reach the wave, so implementing a better access point also helped ensure the river’s health for future users.
Despite the changing landscape around Brennan’s Wave, it is clear that the surfing and kayaking community are as strong as ever – and glad to have new onlookers to appreciate their sport and play. Additionally, with improved, modern infrastructure, the longevity of this truly special place is secure.
“It’s not a stage,” Glaser said, smiling. “It’s a place for people to gather.”
