Minnesota Paddling Opener 2025 a Resounding Success on the Mississippi River

The fourth annual Great River Energy Minnesota Paddling Opener (MPO), held June 13–15, 2025, was the largest and most successful yet, marking the first year under its new name and drawing over 500 participants and spectators from across the U.S. and beyond.

Hosted by Two Paddles Canoe and Kayak Races, the event brought together 244 paddlers (up from 215 in 2024, a 13.5% increase) representing 13 states/provinces and 3 countries, with 72% of participants from Minnesota. The youngest paddler was just six years old; the oldest was an inspiring 82.

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Five Distinct Events – Something for Every Paddler

Paddlers selected from five courses named by mileage:

  • MR 145 – 53 registrants

  • MR 43 – 51 registrants

  • MR 20 – 55 registrants

  • MR 12 – 41 registrants

  • MR 5 “Root Beer Float” – 65 registrants (most popular)

    Participants paddled solo, tandem, in teams of three or four, and in relay teams. They arrived in a wide range of self-powered boats, including kayaks, canoes, stand-up paddleboards, surf skis, custom boats, and outrigger canoes.

    In total, 164 people competed in timed divisions (including 8 relay racers), while 103 enjoyed a recreational paddle tour.

Community Energy: Volunteers and Sponsors Made It Possible

More than 70 volunteers donated over 700 hours, ensuring a safe and welcoming experience for all.

Sponsors

  • A special thank-you to our Title Sponsor: Great River Energy – whose enthusiastic support helped make 2025 our biggest year yet.

  • Wenonah Canoe – Official Canoe Sponsor (most-paddled canoe brand at the event)

  • Minnesota Canoe Association – Community Growth Sponsor + MR 5 “Root Beer Float” Sponsor*

  • Chase Bliss Audio – Live Entertainment Sponsor (featuring Uncle Kenny string band)

  • MN Outdoor Recreation Industry Partnership – Outdoor Rec Sponsor

  • Paddle Bridge Guide Collective – Safety Sponsor + “Root Beer Float” Administrator*

  • One Mississippi – River Steward Sponsor

  • City of Champlin – Finish Line Sponsor

Additional Sponsors & Exhibitors (* = booth at Post Paddle Party):
Red Leaf Designs, Paddle Dynamics, Repair Lair, Hornbeck Boats & Outdoor Supply*, Dorothy Molter Museum*, Lake State Mountaineering*, City of Otsego, Vistabule Travel Trailers*, Three Rivers Park District*, Mississippi Park Connection, Wilderness Inquiry*, Urban Boat Builders*, Friends of the Mississippi River.

Post Paddle Party: A Community Celebration

The event concluded with the Post Paddle Party at the finish line. With 9 exhibitor booths, live music, and a festival atmosphere, it welcomed not only paddlers and volunteers but also hundreds of friends, family members, support crews, and community spectators.

Looking Ahead: Building a Broader Paddling Community

The Minnesota Paddling Opener continues to grow as a celebration of paddling, community, and the beauty of the Mississippi River. Our mission is to make the MPO a launch point for people of all ages and backgrounds to spend more time on the water and grow their skills and connection to our state’s incredible waterways.

This year’s MPO brought together over 500 individuals and we are excited to welcome even more in 2026.

Get Involved

Interested in sponsoring, volunteering, or learning more?

Visit: www.twopaddles.org
Email: info@twopaddles.org
Facebook: fb.com/twopaddlesmn

Scott Miller and Todd Foster
 Race Directors and Founders – Minnesota Paddling Opener