Great River Race
Race to Close the Opportunity Gap
Every year, Wilderness Inquiry partners with the National Park Service, City of Minneapolis, and City of Saint Paul to host the Great River Race on the Mississippi River. The big race funds the Canoemobile Minnesota outdoor education program, addressing the opportunity gap in our schools and reaching more than 23,000 youth annually. Join us at our in-person celebration to race on the Mighty Mississippi in a 24-foot canoe. This action packed event will be a day of fun, purpose, impact, and of course an awards ceremony. Don't be late or you'll miss the boat!
The need is greater than ever as we work to provide place-based outdoor learning experiences for youth across Minnesota and beyond.
Event Details
13th Annual Great River Race
WHEN: September 16, 2023 - 8:30 am
WHERE: Hidden Falls Regional Park - 1313 Hidden Falls Dr., St. Paul, MN 55116
DETAILS:
- Gather at Hidden Falls Regional Park in St. Paul by 8:30 am on September 16
- Enjoy coffee and a light breakfast with your team and plot your strategy!
- The Great River Race kicks off at 10:00 am. Paddle and enjoy this beautiful stretch of the Mississippi River with your teammates. The fastest canoes will approach the finish line by noon, with others coming in by 1:00 pm.
- Enjoy lunch, participate in activities, explore education stations, and stick around for a short awards ceremony!
*Wilderness Inquiry continues to monitor the implications of COVID-19 and follow guidance from the CDC and MDH. Read our COVID-19 policy statement here.
Get Involved
Sponsor a Boat
Build a team of paddlers and race the Mighty Mississippi in a 24-foot canoe while highlighting your organization's dedication to equitable outdoor access for youth.
Volunteer
From timekeeping and registration to boat wrangling and more - volunteers make the Great River Race happen. Sign up to volunteer at the greatest event of the year!
Donate
Donate to the Great River Race and know that your contribution helps connect youth to place-based learning opportunities on their local waterways.
2022 Event Highlights
Race Results
First Place: VAA - 00:57:36
Second Place: Harding High School (Travelers) - 1:02:49
Third Place: LimnoTech - 1:05:36
Spirit Award: Nauti by Nature / BIPOC Outdoors Twin Cities (Nature Valley)
Thank you to our 2022 sponsors!
