driftless paddle battle

• We will have a mandatory captain's meeting Friday night at Pine Bluff where we will review all race logistics, timing, and shuttles.
• Paddlers will be responsible to drive their own watercraft to the Short and Long Course starting lines.  Return shuttles will be provided to bring racers back to their vehicles.
• Races will begin promptly on time.  Starting times may be staggered to allow for large groups.
• Short course is about 11 miles and begins at 10:00 AM
• Long course is about 34 miles and begins at 8:30 AM - VIEW ROUTE
• If you're wondering how long the races take, the prior year's first place, long course winner finished in just under 5 hours in high-water conditions.
• The official route may change due to water levels, weather conditions, etc.
• Paddlers may switch from one course to another up to the start of the race.
• There is a short carry-over around the Upper Dam, at the very end of the race courses.  We will have portage wheels and helping hands available.  We will also have floating markers upstream of the dam advising paddlers to move river right.
• There will be several check points, as well as sweepers making sure all paddlers are safely off the river or to provide assistance in case of emergency.
• We will hold an awards ceremony at Pine Bluff Saturday evening.
• Plan on spotty cellular service.
• Plan to be self-sufficient.  Have plenty of water, sunscreen, food, and first aid supplies.

• There is ample (seriously ample) space at Pine Bluff for camping.  2 nights camping (Friday and Saturday nights) are included in the registration fees.
• There is WIFI at Pine Bluff, but NO CELL SERVICE.  Honestly, it's better that way.  Be sure to let loved ones know they may not be able to contact you via text or phone call, unless messaging is connected to WIFI.
• Non-racers, friends, family are welcome to join and camp at Pine Bluff.  No reservation is needed, just bring $15/tent/night and check in with race organizers upon arrival.
• Parking:  there is a plan, and vehicles can be driven to the camping area and close to the take-out area for loading/unloading of watercraft and supplies - but will need to return to designated parking areas.
• There is a playground, suspension bridge, and hiking trails over 110 acres of gorgeous Driftless topography that straddles both sides of the Upper Iowa River.
• YES - there are showers and bathrooms.
• Plan to bring your own food, drinks, etc and cooking equipment.  There will be coffee and snacks available on race day.  There will be a campfire.
• Area attractions: there are amazing options in Decorah for restaurants, breweries, groceries and lodging.  Check out our amazing partners at Visit Decorah to see what might strike your fancy

Yes! Decorah Canoe & Kayak is offering a special rental package for Paddle Battle participants who’d rather not haul their own boat. Rentals are first come, first served — so if you or a friend need a canoe or kayak, be sure to reserve early.

Rental Rates:
🚣‍♀️ $60 per canoe
🛶 $40 per kayak

Boats will be ready with paddles and PFDs at the launching locations the morning of the race.

Reservation deadline: June 6th
To reserve your boat: Call Elliot at (563) 380-3902

Yes, just bring $15/night per tent.

Want to dive deeper into the Driftless? We’ve rounded up a few helpful resources to help you plan your trip, explore the area, and get to know the river you’ll be paddling. Click the links to learn more!