The Mullica River cuts through the pine and hardwood forests of southern New Jersey with a steady pulse, daring paddlers to match its rhythm. Each year, the Annual Mullica River Canoe and Kayak Race invites adventurers of all stripes to meet the river’s challenge head-on, launching from Port Republic. Spanning roughly 12 miles down the river, racers navigate gentle bends and occasional swells, a course that’s as demanding as it is rewarding.

Starting early in the morning, participants feel the morning mist lift off the water, cool and expectant. The river flows with a confidence that pushes forward without haste, rewarding steady strokes and focused minds. Along the way, cypress knees and overhanging branches create a natural obstacle course, hiding quieter coves where wildlife—herons, turtles, and occasionally the flash of a bald eagle—pause in their daily routines. The terrain on either side remains fiercely itself: endless forest, occasionally breached by marshy edges or narrow sandbars.

The race balances thrill with accessibility. While endurance is a must for this full-day paddle, the course lacks extreme whitewater sections, making it suitable for intermediate paddlers ready to test their limits without technical peril. Knowing your kayak or canoe’s capabilities—making sure it’s trimmed and well-equipped—is vital. Hydration should be a priority; the river doesn’t rush, but it demands patience and perseverance. Wear layered water-resistant clothing, and prepare for sudden temperature shifts between the river and forest canopy.

Logistically, the event is well-supported, with portage points and emergency access areas clearly marked. Start times are set to avoid the afternoon heat, and timing is arranged so paddlers finish before dusk. If you’re spectating, Port Republic offers easy river access points that provide wide views of key course sections.

For newcomers, this race is a practical introduction to multi-mile river paddling with the excitement of friendly competition. For veterans, it’s a chance to reset pace in a natural environment that holds nothing back—each current, bend, and shore reminds you that the river is a living entity, fiercely autonomous yet inviting. Whether chasing a personal best or soaking up the quiet thrill of the woods and water, the Mullica River race holds firm to its enduring invitation: respect the river, and it will reward your effort.