SO YOU THINK YOU CAN PADDLE

August 26 to 28, 2016 in Timmins, Ontario
Kayaking_Timmins_DSC0091.jpg

The countdown is on for kayaking event of the year. No, it’s not the Rio Olympics – it’s the one that you can compete in.

Last year, kayakers from Toronto, Ottawa, Waterloo, Montreal, the U.S. and more flocked to Timmins to The Great Canadian Kayak Challenge & Festival.

"John and I came up to your race from northeast of Toronto and were astounded by the phenomenal job the organizers did to provide a first class venue. The race and all events were so well planned out and ran so smoothly. Thank you to all who were instrumental in making this event so fantastic! We will be back next year for sure."   - Gail Bailey

New this year is The Elite Challenge – a physically demanding 32-km race on the Mattagami and Mountjoy Rivers with two 100-metre portages.

Other challenges include:

  • The Elite Recreational Challenge is 16 km in length with no portages.
  • The Plastic Kayak Challenge – a 10-km race using a plastic kayak.   
  • The Open Long Boat Challenge – a 6.5-km race with no portages

  • The Open Little Boat Challenge – a 6.5-km race in a boat 14’4” and under
  • The Novice Challenge – a 5-km race for people with less than 2 years of kayak experience
  • The Seniors (Masters) Challenge – a 6.5-km race for paddlers aged 55+
  • Youth Challenge – a 3-km race for paddlers aged 14 and under
  • The Celebrity Challenge – 3-km race open to invited participants only

Race registration is closes at 4 pm on Thursday August 25, 2016.

In addition to watching you compete, your family and friends can enjoy a mighty Mattagami pontoon boat ride, stand-up paddleboard demonstrations and fun challenge, arts, music, dance, kids fun, leisure tours, amazing fireworks and more.

Take the challenge and sign up today.

About Trish Manning

Trish Manning is an adventure travel writer. She is an avid outdoor person who loves to hike, paddle, SUP, snowshoe, cross-country ski and explore Ontario's great outdoors with her golden retriever, Daisy.

Recommended Articles

Outdoor Adventures in Ontario

13 must-do activities for visitors who want to experience the best of what the province has to offer.

History, Art, kindness & Adventure

A meaningful journey on the Missinaibi River.

Dreamy Snowshoe Getaways

Plan a magical, snow-filled trip this winter.

Ontario’s Most Stunning Winter Resorts

13 places to book a snow-filled getaway to.

Winter Hiking & Snowshoeing During the Pandemic

Learn about the changes you’ll find at trails across the province.

Looking for a rush?

Rock climbing is exhilarating.

Love dogs?

Find a "pawlooza" near you.

Explore and Relax: Ontario Spas for Outdoor Lovers

Thrills, trails and tranquility.

Hike the Pukaskwa Coastal Trail

Discover awe-inspiring waterfalls, beaches and vistas on this epic 60-km trail.

Point Grondine Park Guide

Everything you need to know to plan a trip to this adventure-filled destination near Killarney.

19 Winter Activities to Add to Your Bucket List

Must-do activities that are snow much fun.

Paddle to the Trailhead

8 stunning hiking trails to canoe or kayak to.

16 Perfect Fall Hikes in Ontario

Add these trails to your bucket list.

Can’t get away this winter?

Discover the best winter vacations for retirees.

Family Day Weekend

The best outdoor activities for adventurous families.

Best Golf Courses in Ontario

Plan a getaway to a green that suits your tastes and skills.

Discover Ontario’s Least Busy Parks

12 incredible off-the-radar destinations.

March Break in Ontario

Discover the best camps, activities and adventures for 2026.

Take Advantage of the Staycation Tax Credit

15 incredible accommodations that will save you money.

Love Wildlife?

Must see parks and attractions for animal-lovers.