Thanks to everyone who helped organize this year's Paddling Festival.  The river was full of water and a perfect level for advanced paddlers and rafts.

Big thanks to the Paddle Festival sponsors, their generous donations have helped to make this event possible.

Mark your calendar for the Kettle River Paddle Festival III

May 1,2,3  2009

The Paddle Festival has a full weekend of paddling activities for white water and flat water paddlers.  Challenge yourself on white-water rapids or enjoy some easy paddling on the Kettle River's upper or lower sections. The river is designated as wild and scenic and is a beautiful float from the head waters down to the St. Croix.

Highlight of the event is the "Kettle River Run" a down river race from Banning State Park to Robinson Quarry. The kayak and canoe race combines white water paddling with a stretch of flat water and is open to all paddlers and boat types.  See race results and video from the first year's event.

Other highlights of the Paddle Fest include a paddlers dinner at the Gas Light Bar and fireworks show in downtown Sandstone, Minnesota Saturday night. Kayak Rodeo on Sunday.

Activities are centered at Robinson Park Quarry, located on the Kettle River in the town of Sandstone,MN. The Kettle River Paddle Fest is open to the public free of charge. Vehicle registration is required for Banning State Park.

Watch the kayak and canoe race, test paddle some boats, join the evening events at the Gas Light Bar in downtown Sandstone. Watch the fireworks across the street.

Paddling Festival, kayak festival, canoe festival, paddling expo, call it what you want.  White water, flat water, river race, kayak rodeo, the Kettle River Paddle Fest offers a little of everything in the friendly small town of Sandstone, Minnesota.