New Weekend Schedule, Skills Classes, and Expanded Expo Announced

Registration is officially open for the 11th Annual Paddle Antrim Festival, returning September 18–20, 2026. This premier event invites paddlers of all levels to explore the Chain of Lakes Water Trail—the only Pure Michigan-designated water trail in Northern Michigan—while enjoying a revamped weekend schedule designed for maximum participation and skill-building.

A Weekend-Focused Schedule for All Watercraft

To make the festival more inclusive for working professionals, Paddle Antrim has shifted its primary paddling days to Saturday and Sunday. By moving away from the traditional Friday paddle, the new format allows more participants to experience the beauty of the water trail without taking time off work.

The non-competitive event is designed for a variety of human-powered watercraft, including kayaks, tandem kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards (SUP). Whether you want to commit to the full weekend or just join for a single day, the festival offers flexible registration options at every skill level:

  • Beginner: Recreational Routes Perfect for those seeking a manageable pace through narrow, calm waterways. Options include the 7-mile Ellsworth-to-Central Lake Relaxed Paddle on Saturday or the 9-mile Bellaire-to-Dockside Morning Paddle on Sunday, which winds through the wildlife-rich Grass River Natural Area.

  • Intermediate: Challenge Routes Designed for those looking to push their distance. Paddlers can opt for a 15-mile journey from Ellsworth to Bellaire on Saturday, or a 17-mile challenge from Bellaire to Torch River on Sunday.

  • Advanced: Expedition Routes The ultimate journey for expert paddlers. This includes a full 27-mile expedition from Bellaire to Elk Rapids on Sunday. Those who complete the full 42-mile two-day challenge earn a prestigious spot in the Festival Hall of Fame. Note: Specific equipment and pace requirements apply.

“The Paddle Antrim Festival is a signature event for our region, and we want it to be accessible to as many people as possible,” says Deana Jerdee, Executive Director of Paddle Antrim. “Moving to a weekend paddle and offering one-day options at every level allows more people to join us for the experience, whether they are looking for a calm, scenic 7-mile paddle or a 42 mile two-day expedition.”

Friday Features: Skills Training and Expanded Expo

The festival officially kicks off on Friday, September 18, with a major focus on education and gear:

  • Safety & Skills Classes (12:00 pm – 5:00 pm): Certified instructor-led sessions in Ellsworth will cover essential techniques and rescue skills, ensuring all paddlers are prepared for the unexpected.

  • Kick-off Party & Festival Expo (Starting at 2:00 pm): Hosted at Ellsworth River Park in partnership with the Village of Ellsworth and the East Jordan Chamber of Commerce, the kickoff features an expanded Outdoor/Paddling Expo.

The Expo will showcase a variety of paddling vendors and include live boat demos. “We often see beginner paddlers eyeing their friends' equipment during the festival,” says Jerdee. “This expo allows paddlers to test different boats and equipment so they can truly understand what works best for their style of paddling before they hit the trail.”

Note to Vendors: Businesses interested in participating in the Expo can apply online at paddleantrim.com/festival-expo/.

A Legacy of Support: Short’s Brewing Company

Paddle Antrim is proud to announce that Short’s Brewing Company returns as the Top Sponsor, a role they have held every year since the festival’s inception. Short’s will host post-paddle celebrations featuring live music and food, which are open to the entire community:

  • Day 1 Celebration: Saturday, Sept 19 at the Short’s Bellaire Beer Garden.

  • The Final Bash: Sunday, Sept 20 at the Short’s Pull Barn in Elk Rapids.

Partnering for Pristine Waters

In a new partnership for 2026, Paddle Antrim is working with the Antrim Conservation District to utilize their mobile boat wash station. To protect the Chain of Lakes from invasive species, all watercraft will be cleaned and inspected on Friday and Saturday morning, reinforcing the festival's commitment to water stewardship.

2026 Festival Schedule at a Glance

  • Friday, Sept 18: Skills Classes (12:00 pm); Kick-off Party & Expo (2:00 pm) in Ellsworth.

  • Saturday, Sept 19 (Paddling Day 1): Ellsworth to Bellaire (Richardi Park).

  • Sunday, Sept 20 (Paddling Day 2): Bellaire to Elk Rapids (Rotary Park) or Dockside Beach.

Registration Information: Paddlers are encouraged to register early, as space is limited. Full details on routes, boat requirements, and safety classes can be found at paddleantrim.com/festival.

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