Celebrating Wolfeboro: THe Great Smith River Race

The Great Smith River Canoe and Kayak Race is an annual 4-mile spring paddling event in Wolfeboro, New Hampshire. Hosted by the Wolfeboro Lions Club, the race features multiple paddling classes and spans from Lake Wentworth to Wolfeboro Bay on Lake Winnipesaukee. This event is a right of passage signaling the passing of winter and the dawn of spring in the Lakes Region.

The Great Smith River Canoe and Kayak Race Logo

History

The very first Great Smith River race was hosted by the Town of Wolfeboro back in 1976. In the beginning entrants were limited to canoes only. As the event's popularity grew a kayak class was created allowing for single riders to join in the fun! For most entrants the race became family tradition passed down through generations. By the mid 80's the event had became so popular that the town needed help managing it and the Wolfeboro Lions Club was there to answer the call. Today the all aspects of the event, from coordination to executioin, and manging to hosting are overseen by the Wolfeboro Lions Club.

fun facts

• The Great Smith River Race is not your ordinary river race, the course cover 3 lakes and one river! Beginning at Albee Beach on Lake Wentworth racers paddle their way to Crescent Lake.

• The Smith River Dam between Crescent Lake and Smith River is OPENED creating moderate white water rapids for our racers!

• The Town of Wolfeboro and the Smith river's waterfront residents grant access to the public for use during the race - this occurs only one day each year, specifically for this race!

• Passage from Smith River to Back Bay is granted, again specifically for this race.

• From Back Bay racers head under the Main Street Bridge, entering Wolfeboro Bay and crossing the finish line by the town Docks.

• The race concludes with a BBQ celebration and an awards ceremony.

Tradition Continues

Each year the Great Smith River Canoe and Kayak Race brings the community together for a day of good family fun for all levels. Whether you are an outdoors adventurer or simply enjoy living vicariously, this event is for you! For those of you carrying on a family tradition or looking to spark a new one - SEE YOU NEXT YEAR