For 60 years, paddlers have made their way through one of Arkansas’s most scenic and challenging races, and this summer the tradition continues! The 60th Annual White River Canoe & Kayak Race returns July 8–11, 2026, covering 120 miles of the beautiful White River.
The race begins below Bull Shoals Dam and winds through the Ozarks before finishing at Riverside Park in Batesville. Over three days, teams take on daily heats as they paddle past towering bluffs, peaceful forests, gravel bars, and some of the most beautiful stretches of river in the Natural State.
The event welcomes a variety of divisions, including youth teams, aluminum canoes, cruising classes, and even stand-up paddleboards. This year’s race also features the USCA Aluminum Nationals, bringing even more excitement to the river.
One of the best places to experience the event is at the finish line in Batesville, where family, friends, and spectators gather to cheer racers across the finish while local civic groups welcome participants with food and a well-earned celebration.
If you’re planning to compete, cheer from the riverbank, or simply enjoy a summer road trip through the Ozarks, the White River Canoe & Kayak Race is a great reason to explore one of Arkansas’s most beautiful waterways.
For more information, head to https://www.whiteriver120.com/