CMP Whiskey Island Paddlefest

Cleveland, Ohio

CMP Whiskey Island Paddlefest

1 hour • Sign up for a race or fun paddle and rent your kayak from us!

Select participants and date

Date

Wed, Oct 8

Travelers

2

Adventure Photos

About This Adventure

Join the excitement at the 11th annual Whiskey Island Paddlefest, featuring thrilling stand-up paddleboard and kayak races for all skill levels! Choose from 1-mile, 2-mile, or 6-mile courses, or enjoy a leisurely Fun Paddle. With awards, prizes, and a vibrant atmosphere, this event promises unforgettable memories on the water!

Duration

1 hour

About

CMP Whiskey Island Paddlefest

Challenge yourself with a 2-mile, 6-mile, youth, or kids’ kayak race during the 10th annual Whiskey Island Paddlefest, or enjoy a paddle at your own pace during the Fun Paddle! Whiskey Island Paddlefest is perfect for both beginners and advanced paddlers.

Race Distances and Categories:

This race is intended for all skill levels, and while this event is competitive in nature, the focus is on a fun race experience. All pre-registered guests 12 years old & over will receive a race item. The top 3 finishers in each category will receive a medal. For the 2 mile & 6 mile races, there will be male and female categories for each. For the Youth & Kids races, there will be one category.

*All details about the Whiskey Island Paddlefest can be found on the Cleveland Metroparks website .

Book your kayak rental for one of the races with us and make sure to register for the race via Cleveland Metroparks website.

Registration will close at noon on August 15th .

Reserving Equipment Reserve your sit-on-top kayak online from Burning River Adventures (Paddle the River, LLC.). Guests reserving kayaks MUST have prior kayak experience.

Reservations are limited to the 2-mile race (single kayaks only), Youth/kids race (single youth kayaks only), and Capture the Swag Fun Paddle (single or tandem kayaks).

Kayak Information: Single Kayaks: 11'4" Jackson Riviera Sit on top kayaks Weight limit: 300 lbs.

Tandem Kayak: 13' 8" Jackson Riviera Tandem sit-on top kayak Weight limit: 450 lbs.

Single Youth Kayaks: 6' Seaflo Youth sit on top kayaks Weight Limit: 120 lbs.

Equipment reservations close at the same time as race registrations, noon on August 15th.

All racers should check in at registration which will be at Wendy Park.

Kayak put-in location: Wendy Park 2800 Whiskey Island Dr, Cleveland, OH 44102

Cancellation

A full refund will be granted if Cleveland Metroparks cancels the program for any reason.

There will be no refunds for no shows or same day cancellations for this event.

Adventure Tips

Arrive Early for Registration

Secure your spot by arriving early; race registration lines can get busy before the start time.

Wear a Personal Flotation Device

For safety, always wear a PFD during races and fun paddles, as required by organizers.

Stay Hydrated

Bring water and stay hydrated throughout the event, especially on warmer race days.

Scout the Race Course

Familiarize yourself with the course map beforehand to plan your pace and turns effectively.

Local Insights

Wildlife

Great Blue Heron
Common snapping turtle

History

Whiskey Island was historically an industrial hub before being revitalized as a recreational space along Lake Erie.

Conservation

Ongoing local efforts focus on preserving Lake Erie’s water quality and natural habitats around Whiskey Island.

CMP Whiskey Island Paddlefest: Cleveland’s Premier Paddle Event

Difficulty

Duration

Fitness Level

Overview