The Tully River in Royalston, Massachusetts, wakes every year with the thunder of paddles and the splash of kayaks at the Tully River Paddle Festival. This annual gathering isn’t just an event — it’s an invitation from a river fiercely itself, challenging kayakers, rafters, and paddlers to test their skills on its lively currents and rapids. Here, the water dares you to move forward, pushing and pulling with energy honed by natural forces and years of flow.

The festival takes place on a stretch of the river known for a variety of rapid classes, generally ranging from Class II to Class IV, offering a playground for novices eager to learn and seasoned adventurers craving technical runs. The course covers about 3.5 miles of water, twisting through rocky channels and forested banks, with elevation drops that make the river pulse with anticipation. The Tully’s flow varies with spring rains and dam releases, meaning the river’s mood can shift daily — a prompt reminder that this adventure requires respect and attentive preparation.

Festival-goers find more than just adrenaline; the surrounding Royalston forest embraces with a quiet vitality. Shorelines lined with maples and oaks nod in the breeze, their leaves whispering stories of seasons past. The weather during the event, often in late spring, is generally cool but inviting, perfect for both the splash of whitewater and the camaraderie of fellow paddlers.

Practical preparation is key. Participants should bring appropriate gear—helmets, life jackets, and well-fitted paddling attire that balances warmth and breathability. Water-resistant footwear with good grip is essential for rocky launches. Hydration is critical; even as splashes cool skin, physical exertion demands water intake. Timing your runs with local water releases optimizes the experience, so check schedules ahead of your arrival.

For those coming to watch or participate, camping spots and accommodations in nearby Athol offer convenient staging points. Athol’s proximity blends access with small-town charm, helping you recharge between runs or explore nearby hiking trails when the river calls for rest.

The Tully River Paddle Festival is not just about conquering currents — it’s about joining a community shaped by a river that’s alive, assertive, and unrelenting. Whether you’re sizing up your first rapid or lining up for a challenging run, you’ll find the Tully waiting with a pulse that matches your own thirst for adventure and respect for nature’s force.