18th Annual Paddlepalooza

Paddlepalooza

June 6, 2026

Paddlepalooza is a kayaking and canoeing event on the Clinton River. The event includes a men's and women's division kayak and canoe race and an adventure river paddle on an 8-mile section of the Clinton River. Participants will begin launching their watercraft at 8:00 AM on June 6, at Riverside Park in Downtown Auburn Hills. The course ends at the Rivercrest Professional Center in Rochester Hills.

Trophies will be awarded to the first, second and third-place finishers in each race class. The winning craft for the kayak races and the canoe race will receive a gift certificate or prize. Each participant will receive a T-shirt shirt and lunch.

This event is not recommended for the beginner paddler. At certain times of the year, this river can be considered difficult (Class III rating).

The event may be canceled if the river height exceeds two feet, according to the USGS stream gauge located along the Clinton River in Auburn Hills. Refunds shall be provided if the original scheduled event and rain date are canceled.

Registration is required. Registration details, as well as kayak and canoe rental information, will be available in April.

• For ages 12 and over only.
• Under 18 parent/guardian signature required.
• Under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
• All participants are required to wear a personal floatation device.
• All participants will sign and submit a waiver and provide an emergency contact in person.
• No alcohol or mind-altering drugs are allowed.
• No stopping along the way.
• Must adhere to the course and start times.
• No trespassing on private property.
• No littering.
• Following community-accepted rules of sportsmanship.
• Decisions of the Racemaster are final.
• Recommend bringing a change of clothes and blanket.
• No inflatables.
• Bailers are recommended.
• Check-in at the finish is required!

Paddlepalooza is co-sponsored by the City of Auburn Hills and the City of Rochester Hills.

Info: Shuttle Service From Rivercrest Professional Center (930 W Avon Rd Rochester Hills MI 48307) to Riverside Park downtown Auburn Hills. Early arrival is advised. Participants using their own watercraft will be responsible for transporting their watercraft. The final shuttle service will be at 8:00am.

Info: Registration / Check In ends at 08:30 am. Racers must check in 30 minutes before the start of the race. All participants are required to sign a waiver at registration / check in.

Info: Two person canoe races with one blade paddles. Canoe racers will start once all Kayak Divisions have gone.

Info: Kayak and Canoers who wish to participate for fun.

Info: Course ends at Rivercrest Professional Center in Rochester Hills. Lunch, door prizes and trophy presentations will take place at Rochester Christian University, just a short walk from the parking lot. Look for signs. Lunch will be provided by The Mean Weenie.

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Host or Publisher City of Auburn Hills