Mississippi River Challenge

The Mississippi River Challenge is a 2-day, 44-mile paddling event to raise money for a cleaner, healthier river. The dates for the 7th annual event are July 24th & 25th, 2010. This is the premier event for Friends of the Mississippi River and all funds raised go toward aiding the organization’s work on the Mississippi River in and around the Twin Cities. Each paddler over 18 is required to raise a minimum of $250 in pledges ($50 for those 16-18, and no minimum for those 15 and under) to participate in this event.

Over the course of this event, you will experience a new view of the Mississippi and the Twin Cities that includes:

• Paddling through three locks
• Stretches of what seem to be near pristine wilderness right in the core of the cities
• Camping in an historic fort
• Live music and great food
• The opportunity to learn about the history, the ecology, and the culture of this great river
• A chance to connect with other local paddlers and river enthusiasts, and more!

There are a variety of options for participation in the Mississippi River Challenge. You can:

• canoe or kayak (other paddlecraft are also welcome, just nothing with a motor)
• paddle one day or two (each day is 22 miles)
• spend the night at Historic Fort Snelling (or go home)
• paddle solo or with a partner

This event is fully supported, which means a shuttle is provided from your car (parked at the end point) to the starting point, your camping gear is transported for you, all meals, snacks, and beverages are provided, and SAG (safety and gear) support is available at all rest stops along the route. There are some additional perks for paddlers, including online registration and a personal fundraising page, a Mississippi River Challenge t-shirt, a rare opportunity to camp at Historic Fort Snelling, and a Saturday night celebration complete with live music and cold beverages. This is a family-friendly event and we encourage people of all ages and skill levels to participate!

There are several stopping points along the route where paddlers are required to take a break. Each day has two rest stops and one lunch stop to allow paddlers to re-hydrate and re-energize. This is important to successfully completing the Mississippi River Challenge.