Des Plaines River Canoe & Kayak Marathon

06/17/2026

The race was exactly one month ago, WOW!
Apologies for not posting these photos sooner but congratulations to all the 2026 finishers.

This was our 69th year and we have a lot of fun up our sleeves to celebrate our 70th next May!

We couldn’t do it with the generous support of our sponsors, our amazing volunteers, and our incredibly hardworking Board.

Have a wonderful summer and we look forward to seeing you in 2027!

05/13/2026

Need a little more of this in your life?
May 17th, 18.5 or 5.25 miles
Sign up today at www.canoemarathon.com

05/11/2026

Let’s DO this!!
www.canoemarathon.com
May 17th. Paddle 18.5 or 5.25 miles 😎

05/09/2026

🌸Still need a gift for mom? How about an entry to the 18.5 mile Marathon or 5.25 mile minithon?

👕 Guarantee your race shirt by registering before 10pm this Sunday.

💳 Good news, the tshirt tent will be taking credit cards, apple and google pay, this year! But we will only have VERY limited supply of 2026 race shirts so make sure yours is waiting for you by registering today and we securing your shirt.

💵 Prices go up $5 on Monday, so really what are you waiting for? 😎🛶

📅 Race day is May 17. Go to www.canoemarathon.com to register now

05/07/2026

We love our race Sponsor's and today we highlight Paddle Dynamics.
Jeff has everything a kayak or canoe racer needs, boats, paddles and high quality gear/clothing. Why? Because he is a paddler and a racer too!
Paddle Dynamics is the number one dealer in the United States for both Epic and Stellar Kayaks as well as Vaikobi race clothes/accessories.

Thank you for your support Paddle Dynamics!
Check them out at

EPIC KAYAKS As the largest Epic dealer in the US, we offer a wide range of high performance Surfskis and Touring Kayaks to choose from, contact us to find the perfect new Epic Kayak. NORDIC KAYAKS (NK)Our newest line of Surfskis offering a wide range of intermediate to advanced Surfskis. Excellent l...

05/06/2026

✅ Water Level 💦
✅ After Party with food truck and live music 🎤🎸
✅ Weather ☀️
✅ Shuttles included 🚌
✅✅✅ A fun day with your friends on the river? CHECK CHECK CHECK

This is the last week to guarantee your race t-shirt will be waiting at the finish line for you!

✔️Register before 10pm on Sunday 5/10 to guarantee your shirt www.canoemarathon.com

05/04/2026

🚨 We need your help! Let’s boost registrations in these classes:

• (2) C2 Junior Men, Women/Mixed
• (4) C2 Women Aluminum/Touring
• (7) C2 Competition (Women/Men/Masters)
• (17) K1 Women Sea Kayak
• (19) K1 Women Unlimited Kayak
• (21) SUP Men Stand-Up Paddleboard
• (22) SUP Women Stand-Up Paddleboard

Classes need at least 6 paddlers to award trophies—otherwise, it’s medals only. Let’s make sure everyone has a shot at the big prize! 🏆

Right now, the Women’s Sea Kayak class is especially light, with only 2 registrants. That’s unusual for what’s typically a very competitive category - jump in now and you’re already on the podium!

Conditions couldn’t be better: river levels are ideal, and there are no concerns about bringing longer or more fragile boats. I was just out there with my Stellar yesterday, and it’s looking great.

Spread the word, sign up, and let’s make these classes competitive!

www.canoemarathon.com

05/04/2026

A small group of race volunteers scouted the course yesterday and reported excellent conditions for the race.

‼️ NOW is the time to enter!

👕🧢 This is the last week to secure your race T-Shirt. T-Shirt and hat pre-sales end on Mothers Day. We will have limited stock in the t-shirt tent for sale race day. Save $5 and know yours is secured by registering this week!

🛶 Register at www.canoemarathon.com
Race Day is May 17. All are welcome to participate. 🚌 Shuttled and INCLUDED!

05/02/2026

We couldn’t host this race without the incredible support of our volunteers and sponsors—and today, we’re excited to shine a spotlight on our top sponsor: Offshore Marine!

Located just a few miles from the race start, Offshore offers an outstanding selection of kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards, along with all the gear you need, from paddles and PFDs to dry suits, wet suits, and more.

They’re not just a great shop—they’re great people. Owner Matt is an experienced paddler who truly knows his craft and takes the time to help you find the perfect boat for your needs.

We’re proud to partner with such a passionate and knowledgeable team. Be sure to check them out and show your support!

Chicagoland's most complete retailer for canoes, kayaks, and inflatable boats.

05/01/2026

With all the recent rains and flooding in the area you may be wondering how the course looks. Here is the start line and we are at 5’ on the Gurnee gauge which are ideal conditions for the race!
Register at www.canoemarathon.com