There is no race quite like the Washington Island Canoe & Kayak Event. The course is a classic example of Great Lakes beauty and offers breathtaking scenery and challenging conditions. Outriggers, open water rowing sculls, and surf skis complete the 22-mile circumnavigation of Washington Island, just off the tip of the Door County Peninsula.
This year’s (third annual) event includes a Marathon Race circumnavigating Washington Island (22 miles), Half Marathon, Guided Island Eco-Tour, Sea Kayak Symposium, Keynote Presentation by Roy Lukes, Greenland Kayak Paddle Building Workshop, and Crossing Death’s Door Expedition.
The weekend offers events of excitement, challenge and education. Learn from the best, enjoy natural history of these waters. Retrace ancient water routes of Native Americans, Voyageurs, Explorers and generations of Island commercial fishermen and sailors.
New and expert paddlers are welcome. Kayaks will be available for rent or participants may bring their own. Beginners can team up with paddling partners in a tandem boat. Marathon racers may change boat classification on race day if they report the boat change to the race director by 7:30 a.m. Updated weather/wave reports and briefings will be available throughout the event.Camping and hotel reservations must be made separately from the event with the lodging of your choice.
Plan on coming a couple days early or stay a day or two afterward because there is a lot to see and do and you won’t find another place quite like it.
For more information, visit the event website.
