Two-Day Canoe Racing Event is Coming to the Rogue River

Rockford is set to host the first annual Rogue River Gauntlet, a two-day canoe racing event on the Rogue River.

Rogue River

The Rogue River is a 48-mile tributary of the Grand River that flows through Newaygo and Kent counties, including the city of Rockford. Renowned for its excellent trout fishing, cold-water stretches, and seasonal salmon and steelhead runs, it is a protected and widely enjoyed recreational river.

During the lumber era of the late 19th century, its waters carried timber downstream to the mills of the Grand River valley. Today, no longer used for logging, the Rogue River is a favorite destination for trout anglers and local youth, who have been floating it by inner tube since the mid-20th century. Canoes and kayaks have also long navigated its scenic stretches.

Read More: Why Flooding Helps Michigan Fish Thrive Each Spring

The City of Rockford is introducing a new addition to the Rogue River, one they hope will become an annual tradition.

Rogue River Hosts Exciting Two-Day Canoe Race

According to FOX 17, Rockford will host a two-day canoe racing event called the Rogue River Gauntlet. The event kicks off Saturday morning with a 10-mile, two-person race that has paddlers heading upstream before turning around and racing back.

The race features professional canoeists and if you think you have what it takes, there are still to spots open to get in the two-man or solo races. The Michigan Canoe Racing Association is where you sign up.

Sunday features a solo race. Both days begin at 10 am and will start just north of the Rockford Dam.

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The City of Rockford hopes this event will do well in order to become a new revenue generating event. If you live in the Rockford area or just love canoeing, get out and support the event.

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