🛶 This Week in Kayaking & Canoeing: News, Races, Events, and Tips (May 26, 2025)

🛶 This Week in Kayaking & Canoeing: News, Races, Events, and Tips (May 26, 2025)

Whether you're an experienced paddler or just getting started, this week in kayaking and canoeing brings exciting developments, national events, and expert tips that everyone can learn from. Let’s dive into what’s happening across the U.S. in the paddling world this week.

🌊 Klamath River Reopens: A Historic Moment for Paddlers

One of the biggest stories this week is the Klamath River Restoration Project. As part of the largest dam removal in U.S. history, over 400 miles of the Klamath River—stretching across California and Oregon—are now flowing freely for the first time in over a century. This not only helps endangered fish species return but also opens up exciting new stretches for kayaking and rafting.

Why it matters:
The new access to natural rapids and flatwater along the Klamath offers unique opportunities for whitewater kayakers and expedition paddlers. Whether you enjoy river touring, kayak camping, or challenging rapids, this is a destination to watch in 2025.

🏁 Major Races and Festivals Happening This Week

🚣 General Clinton Canoe Regatta (May 23–25 – Bainbridge, NY)

Known as the world’s longest single-day flatwater canoe race, this 70-mile endurance challenge on the Susquehanna River attracts elite and amateur paddlers from across North America. The regatta includes youth races, sprint events, and a paddling festival vibe with live music and local vendors.

🌊 Bigfork Whitewater Festival (May 23–25 – Bigfork, MT)

Celebrating its 50th anniversary, this iconic whitewater festival on Montana’s Wild Mile features slalom races, downriver time trials, and boatercross. It also offers community fun like gear raffles, paddling clinics, and demonstrations. This event raises funds for the Montana Kayak Academy to support youth paddling education.

🎉 Other Events & Guided Trips

• Traditional Arts Weekend (May 23–25 – Remus, MI)
  A family-friendly blend of folk music, traditional skills, and kayaking workshops—perfect for beginners to explore paddling in a cultural setting.

• Guided Paddle Tour at Twin Lakes State Park (May 24 – Prince Edward County, VA)
  Led by local naturalists, this tour is a great way to learn beginner kayaking techniques while enjoying peaceful lake scenery and discovering local wildlife.

🏅 U.S. Canoe Sprint Team Updates

The U.S. Canoe Sprint National Team is back from the ICF Canoe Sprint World Cup in Szeged, Hungary (May 16–18). American athletes like Audrey Harper, Emma Albrecht, and Andreea Ghizila showcased strong performances as the 2025 international season kicks off. Their progress also serves as inspiration for younger paddlers entering the sport.

For aspiring competitive paddlers: Watching sprint races is a great way to study elite stroke technique, pacing strategies, and how athletes manage boat balance under pressure.

🧠 Pro Tips for Beginner Kayakers

If you’re new to kayaking or canoeing, here are a few techniques and insights to help you build confidence on the water:

1. Use Core Rotation, Not Just Your Arms

A common mistake among beginners is relying on arm strength. Instead, power your stroke from your torso. This engages stronger muscle groups and improves efficiency and control.

2. Master the Wet Exit and Re-entry

Practicing how to safely exit and re-enter your kayak in open water is essential. It builds confidence and prepares you for real-world scenarios.

3. Wear Proper Gear

Invest in a comfortable PFD (personal flotation device) and quick-drying clothing. Footwear like neoprene booties or water shoes is ideal for launch sites and rocky riverbeds.

4. Learn to Read the Water

Understanding current direction, eddies, and hazards like strainers (fallen trees) or sweepers (overhanging branches) is vital for safe navigation, especially in rivers.

5. Start with Calm Water

Flatwater lakes or bays are perfect for beginners. These environments allow you to focus on paddle technique, turning, and stopping without battling waves or currents.

Final Thoughts

This week is a big one for the U.S. paddling community, from groundbreaking river restoration projects to top-tier races and friendly festivals. Whether you’re an experienced whitewater racer or just learning to hold a paddle, there's something out there for everyone.

As kayaking and canoeing continue to grow, especially with increased access to natural rivers like the Klamath, now is the perfect time to explore, learn, and paddle with purpose.

Stay tuned next week for more updates on national races, paddler rankings, and tips to improve your skills. And if you're looking for gear advice or training routines, we’ll cover that too!

🛶 Happy paddling, everyone!