The Northwest Paddling Festival returns to Lake Sammamish’s shores this spring in full force. The festival offers the chance for athletes, manufacturers, and retailers to come together in one paddle-loving celebration May 10-11. Paddle out with other like-minded paddle enthusiasts for some quality on-water fun and education featuring seminars, races, and over 60 on-site businesses; browse canoes, kayaks, stand up paddleboards (SUPs), paddling equipment, gear, accessories, and more.
Whether you’re a first-timer or seasoned paddler, check out any or all of Saturday’s educational seminars to learn everything from how to find the best kayak for you and paddle sports clothing tips to paddle camping the Salish Sea and the foundation of SUP yoga. Love fishing? The “Kayak Fishing the Pacific Northwest” seminar could be for you or visit the “Protecting & Preserving Puget Sound” seminar to brush up on wildlife observation practices and environmentally friendly behavior. A full seminar calendar can be found online.
For those pining for some healthy competition, sign up for the 6-mile paddle race along Lake Sammamish’s shores. Kayakers, stand up paddleboarders, and outriggers will all test their speed in this three-lap race at 1030 hours on Saturday, May 11. A one-lap, 2-mile race course is also on the agenda; all racers will launch synonymously, and all registrants get a free race shirt and a NWPF Demo wristband.
The Northwest Paddling Festival is free to the public, so no tickets are required! Visit northwestpaddlingfestival.com for more information. Catch you out on the water!
