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

Natural Highs

7 magnificent mountains in Ontario to climb, hike, ride, ski and more.

2026 Triathalons

Swim, cycle and run your way to triathlete status at these Ontario events.

Algonquin Park Guide

Everything you need to know to plan a trip to this world-class destination.

9 of the Most Beautiful Fall Destinations

And they’re all in Ontario.

Discover Hardy Lake Provincial Park

Your hiking guide to this sublime park in Muskoka.

Visit Killbear Provincial Park

Everything you need to know to plan a trip to this idyllic park.

Insider’s Guide to Sleeping Giant

Everything you need to plan a trip to this iconic provincial park.

Ontario Trail Races 2026

Find out where to test your limits and get out in the woods.

Top of the Giant Trail

Get tips on this amazing hike at Sleeping Giant Provincial Park.

Agawa Falls Trail

Hike to Agawa Canyon's deepest secret.

Best Waterfalls in Ontario

Discover where they are and how to get there.

Crown Land Camping

What it is and where you can camp in Ontario.

Dogs Welcome!

Top dog-friendly resorts.

Go Winter Glamping

Get cozy at these 11 snowy Ontario getaways.

Pancake Bay: Ontario’s Ultimate Beach Escape

Discover the shores of an inland sea.

The Best Killarney Hikes

Take to the trails in Ontario’s crown jewel park.

25 Adventurous Fall Activities in Ontario

Get outside and make the most of the season.

Hike The Best Trails

Discover your next great adventure.

Arrowhead Provincial Park Guide

Everything you need to know to plan a trip to this fun-filled park.

Where to See Ontario's Coolest Wildlife

Get expert tips on how to spot these iconic species.