Join us for a family friendly paddle event on the beautiful Buckhannon River! Two paddle options, music, food, and education to celebrate our community and river. This event honors the life and legacy of Jack Barker, an avid canoe paddler and national champion race, and the Barker family, for organizing this race for 20+ years. This event also honors the importance of clean water as a source for community unity. Participants are encouraged to bring a canned food item to donate to the Upshur County Parish House. 

 

Any type of non-motorized recreational boats are welcome to join: canoes, kayaks, and standup paddle boards. All participants must wear their life jackets. Spectators, family, and friends can also join and enjoy a day on the banks of the Buckhannon River with food, vendors and live music! 

 

Paddlers can participate in two different distances (only one registration required): 

• Big Paddle (noon)

  • Paddlers will depart for a 3.8 miles out & back route starting at the Riverwalk Park boat ramp and turning left to paddle upstream, then turn around at Tennerton Bridge and return to Riverwalk Park. The Long Paddle will have an Open Division Race option for those competitive folks that want to challenge themselves! Awards will be given to the top 3 finishers. 

 

• Little Paddle (1:30 pm) 

  • Geared towards youth/beginners but anyone is welcome! Paddlers will depart for a 1.4 mile out & back route starting at Riverwalk Park boat ramp and turning left to paddle upstream, then turn around at the Poe St bridge and return to Riverwalk Park 

 

Event Schedule 

10:00 AM Registration, check in and vendors open 

12:00 PM Big Paddle Begins (Race or Fun Paddle) 

1:30 PM Little Paddle Begins

2:00 PM Awards Ceremony 

 

Cost: 

• $10 to participate which includes on-the-water insurance protection through the American Canoe Association 

• Donations will be accepted, all proceeds to benefit the Buckhannon River Watershed Association clean water projects 

• Option to purchase event swag and merchandise on Bonfire - pick your color, size, and style!