Melting snow and spring rains mean rising water levels and some of the year’s best paddling conditions in the Northeast come spring. It’s also the time of year for the many exciting and fun canoe and kayak races that are held throughout the region during this season. Here are five fantastic spring races you should check out. For a full schedule of paddling races in the Northeast, visit the New England Canoe and Kayak Racing Association website.
SCIANTIC SPRING SPLASH
March 29, 2025
Sciantic River, Connecticut
The Sciantic Spring Splash, which is held on the Sciantic River between Somersville and Hazardville, Connecticut, has been a popular paddling event for more than 30 years. The 5-mile course features a mandatory portage, three Class II rapids and a popular finish area with lots of spectators. There is also a 2-mile novice course.
RIVER RAT RACE
April 12, 2025
Millers River, Massachusetts
Part race, part party, the River Rat Race draws large crowds of spectators to watch 200+ canoes race in a no-holds-barred 5.2-mile sprint on the Millers River. The race features a 15-mile pro course and a 12-mile amateur course.
KENDUSKEAG STREAM CANOE RACE
April 19, 2025
Kenduskeag, Maine
Maine’s Kenduskeag Stream Canoe Race is the largest paddling event in New England and one of the largest in the country. This 16.5-mile race has been around for almost 60 years. It begins in the town of Kenduskeag and ends near the confluence of the Penobscot River in downtown Bangor.
WESTFIELD RIVER WILDWATER RACES
April 19, 2025
Westfield, Massachusetts
The country’s oldest whitewater canoe, kayak and SUP races will take place on the Westfield River on Saturday, April 19. This year marks the event’s 70th year. Participants brave spring whitewater rapids and portage their boats around dams. The race takes place on a river so pristine it was given “Wild & Scenic” designation by an act of Congress 30 years ago.
GENERAL CLINTON CANOE REGATTA
May 23-25, 2025
Bainbridge, New York
This massive paddling event on New York’s Susquehanna River between Cooperstown and Bainbridge features the world’s longest single-day flatwater canoe race. Races are held for paddlers of all abilities, from novice to pro, and feature lengths ranging from short 5-mile courses to 70-mile endurance events.