SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) — Monday marks the last day of the season for Wild Water West, and it was a little slow.
“With the weather that we’ve had today, I kind of expected a smaller crowd. I mean, usually our Labor Day weekends, we do see smaller crowds. Yesterday, we had a really good day, but on days like today, people are traveling back or they’re still at the lake,” Wild Water West aquatic director Colter Quinn said.
But that didn’t stop all the fun.
“The waves are so big, and it’s really fun,” Layani Carranza said.
Overall, the park’s season was up and down. The most challenging part was overcoming flooding in late June.
“We were closed a lot during June just simply for the flooding. I mean, it was absolutely insane. Nothing like we’ve ever seen here before. We recovered really well from it,” Quinn said.
Which helped them rebound in August.
“August was a really good month for us, and I think that it’s just those people that are trying to get in those last couple trips to have fun with their family,” Quinn said.
However, all good things must come to an end.
“I’m sad I won’t be able to swim. I love swimming. It’s really nice. I just like when it’s really hot outside, and then the water is cool, and it feels really good,” Penelope Centeno said.
“It’s kind of bittersweet because. We get a little break, but it’s also fun working here. The people are great,” lifeguard Hayden Gorra said.
“Seeing my staff leave, that’s probably the worst part about this job is when your staff leaves for the winter. But we’ve had a good run this summer, and we’re excited for next summer,” Quinn said.
Wild Water West also received positive feedback about their updated mini-golf course and swim-up bar.
