Big Ole Paddlefest

The Big Ole PaddleFest is a charitable, adventure paddle on Alexandria’s Chain of Lakes and the Long Prairie River.  On Fri., July 15th, stand up paddleboarders, kayakers & canoeists paddle scenic lake-to-lake courses of 5, 10 or 17 miles. On Sat., July 16th, the Long Prairie River Cruise is a gorgeous, family-friendly trip down a MN State Water Trail.  The Big Ole PaddleFest (BOP) welcomes paddlers of all crafts, skill levels, and children 12+.  The BOP donates all profits to our local United Way.

The BOP kicks off at 8A on Friday, July 15th with our signature event – the 17 mi Big Ole! The 10 mi SVEN begins at 10A, and the 5 mi LENA starts at 12P. Friday’s courses are well-supported by volunteers with snacks & water, and guide boats are used on larger lakes. Medals are awarded to the 3 fastest men’s and women’s paddleboarders and kayakers of each event, and all finishers of the Big Ole! Our top fundraisers & volunteers are also recognized at the Post-Paddle Party at Arrowwood Marina. The Long Prairie River Cruise (LPRC) is on Saturday, July 17^th. The 8 mi LPRC starts at 10A at the Hwy 29 LPR Access in Carlos and ends at the Belle River bridge.

(The event was formerly called the Big Ole SUPathon)