Celebrate Croswell Pioneer Days on the Black River for the Pioneer Paddle kayak race. Paddlers can choose between two distances: 1 mile out-and-back from Sanborn Road Bridge to Harrington Road Bridge and Back, or a 5K route from the Swinging Bridge to PL Graham Park and Back. Each race will have a competitive heat and a relaxed heat. Sponsored by the Croswell Library, this family-friendly race welcomes beginners, casual paddlers, and competitive racers alike, with giveaways, prizes, and a festive atmosphere at the finish line. Everyone who signs up will get a T-Shirt and everyone who finishes will get a medal. FAQ 1. Do I need my own kayak? Yes, participants must provide their own kayak. 2. Do I need to wear a lifejacket? Yes, you need a US Coast Guard approved wearable flotation device. 3. Can I use a canoe, raft, or other type of paddling water craft? For competitive heats, you must use a single person kayak. If you are entering the noncompetitive heat, you may use whatever you want
Hotels Near This Race
Find accommodation close to the start line in Croswell, MI. Sorted by distance from the race venue. Book early — race weekend hotels fill fast.
RaceHotelFinder earns a small commission when you book through links on this page, at no extra cost to you. Results are sorted by distance from the race venue.
Pioneer Paddle: Black River Kayak Race 2026 — Croswell, MI
Race weekend dates pre-loaded on Booking.com. RaceHotelFinder may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Race Travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for July 11.
You've trained for months and booked a trip to Croswell, MI.
A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing.
Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it,
and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run
5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no
additional coverage needed.
Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
