Minnesota Paddling Opener

June 13, 2025

The entire route is part of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) “Mississippi Water Trail.” Participants can use canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards or any kind of self-powered boat. The event starts at the Babcock Park Boat Access in Elk River and ends in Champlin. The competitive race divisions include: solo (men/women), tandem (men/women/mixed), SUP (men/women), and Team (for more details on divisions see the Event Rules page). The tour division is for anyone who wants to take their time and have a relaxing trip.

Visit the Minnesota Paddling Expo beforehand. The Expo is open to everyone whether they paddled or not. There will be exhibitors from paddling businesses and river-related non-profits. You can cheer on hundreds of boats arriving at the finish line. There will be carnival games and food at the adjacent Champlin’s Father Hennepin Festival.